World Puppet Theatre Festival 2027 in Charleville-Mézières

Every two years, Charleville-Mézières becomes the global hub for puppet theatre. The FMTM has been running since 1961 and brings together international companies for ten days of performances staged in theatres, streets, bars and unusual venues across the French town in the Ardennes region. The programme spans family-friendly shows, street performances and world premieres, alongside co-productions that support new work in the field. It works both as a professional showcase and as a city-wide celebration, drawing large crowds throughout the run. For visitors planning to attend, staying in central Charleville-Mézières or nearby makes it easy to walk between venues. Local accommodation is limited and books up quickly, so securing a hotel early is strongly recommended. The event is run by the Pôle International de la Marionnette - Jacques Félix, the institution that also hosts the ESNAM higher education school and a specialised documentation centre.