The Educational Role of Puppet Theater in Contemporary Arts

Abstract

This article examines the multifaceted educational role of puppet theater within the context of contemporary arts. Far beyond its traditional function as a form of entertainment, puppet theater is shown to be an effective pedagogical tool that fosters creativity, cultural understanding, and critical thinking. Through its symbolic storytelling and interdisciplinary nature, puppet theater engages learners of diverse backgrounds and abilities, making it suitable for both formal and informal education settings. The discussion highlights its use in language acquisition, emotional development, intercultural learning, and digital media integration, illustrating how puppetry adapts to evolving educational needs. Drawing on examples from classroom practice, community engagement, and therapeutic contexts, the article argues for the continued and expanded use of puppet theater as a valuable medium in modern education systems.