Town stories: Lutkarnica – a small space for big stories

In the summer, Kidričeva ulica in Koper became home to Lutkarnica—a unique space dedicated to puppetry art, enchanting both children and adults with its program. This is the first and only space of its kind in Slovenian Istria, marking a new chapter in the cultural life of the town.

Four decades of puppetry tradition and new stories

Lutkarnica is the fulfillment of a vision spanning over 40 years—a family puppet theatre enriching the cultural life of Koper and beyond. “My mother, Maja Bavdaž Gross, a renowned puppeteer, has dedicated four decades to this dream. We are thrilled to finally have a dedicated space for puppetry in Koper,” says Nika Solce, the head of Lutkarnica and a versatile artist, puppeteer, and musician. As a child, Nika performed with her family’s puppet theatre, Papilu, touring festivals across Europe with her parents. Today, in her solo performances, she blends her two passions—puppetry and music.

The family has a long-standing tradition of puppet making, organizing festivals, and connecting the international puppetry community, all of which they now blend in Lutkarnica—a small space on Kidričeva ulica that accommodates up to 30 visitors. Nika’s brother, Matija Solce, is also a versatile artist—musician, puppeteer, and actor—who specializes in object theatre. “Our family has been contributing to cultural events on the coast for many years. Every year, we bring world-renowned puppeteers, street theatre artists, and creators to Istria through various events and festivals,” says Nika, who has been involved in organizing PUF, the street festival of Primorska, for 25 years.

An intimate space for magical moments

Lutkarnica is the perfect place for young children and anyone looking to step into the world of imagination. “What makes our space special is its intimacy. It also means that children are exposed to quality content from an early age, shaping their future experiences. It’s wonderful that children now have their own mini theatre where they can create and enjoy performances we host from Slovenia and abroad,” says Nika. The space is also dedicated to artists and puppeteers who perform at the PUF Festival during the summer.

Children aged 3 and up are invited to immerse themselves in the world of puppets, music, and fairy tales. “Fairy tales are a wonderful way for children to develop their language, imagination, and creativity,” says Nika, emphasizing that this applies to adults as well. Lutkarnica also hosts performances for older audiences. The December program will be particularly vibrant, featuring performances two to three times a week and puppet-making workshops on Saturdays. All performances and workshops require prior booking at least one day in advance.

Lutkarnica as part of the city’s cultural development

For Lutkarnica’s team, fostering puppetry art, culture, language, imagination, and creativity is a core mission. “There’s a significant difference in the cultural education of children between places where puppetry is nurtured and those where it isn’t. Stories and fairy tales play a crucial role in a child’s development,” says Nika Solce. She views Koper as a city with immense cultural potential but emphasizes the need for greater investment in culture. She also harbors a strong ambition to establish a dedicated puppet theatre in the town.

“For a New Year’s gift, bring your children to experience a puppet show or create your own puppet at a workshop,” she suggests. Everyone is welcome to drop by Lutkarnica whenever the lights are on. Nika’s favorite places to visit include the town library and bookshop or attending a literary event. She also enjoys a good cup of coffee in the heart of the town.

Have you visited Lutkarnica yet? Discover the magic of puppets and experience unforgettable moments!