ABOUT

Bence Sarkadi is an internationally acclaimed puppet master whose career in string puppetry began in 1999. Since 2007, he has toured the globe with his captivating one-man puppet shows, performing across six continents. His artistry has earned him prestigious awards worldwide and cemented his reputation as a pioneer in the world of puppetry.

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Bence is proud to have been the first Hungarian solo puppeteer to perform two of his shows in the “IN” program of the Festival Mondial des Théâtres de Marionnettes in Charleville-Mézières, widely regarded as one of the most prestigious events in puppetry. The following year, he was honored to be invited back as a "super guest," becoming the first international artist to receive this recognition.

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Bence’s passion for marionettes began at the age of 20, when he was captivated by the art form’s intricate complexity and the unique blend of skills it demanded. With a background in woodworking, mechanical structures, music, and dance—including ballroom, salsa, and tango—Bence weaves a rich tapestry of influences into his work. Each marionette he creates is not merely a puppet but a complete character, brought to life through craftsmanship, movement, and emotion.

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To Bence, marionettes are like musical instruments: each string, joint, and detail must be finely tuned to harmonize with the performer’s touch. This harmony is what allows him to transform wooden figures into expressive storytellers, capable of captivating audiences with both subtle gestures and grand performances.

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A trailblazer in his field, Bence has introduced the essence of street performance into the world of serious puppetry, bridging two seemingly disparate worlds. When asked whether street busking compromises the art form, he responds with characteristic insight and humor:

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"I am a very serious street entertainer and a very bohemian puppeteer. The two worlds are less contradictory than they may seem at first."

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Through his unique approach, Bence Sarkadi continues to redefine marionette artistry, combining technical precision with vibrant storytelling and a nod to tradition, all while pushing the boundaries of what puppetry can achieve.