Abstract
This article deals with puppetry in the Liberec region or more precisely with the historical development of the cultural activities of the tradition continuous until the present time. The Czech puppet theater has become during its development an important phenomenon, which is an integral part of the cultural heritage of the Czech nation.
This study analyzes how much the puppetry in the Liberec region contributes to this. The article is divided into several chapters, mainly because of the time aspect.
First mention of the Czech puppetry in what is today the Liberec region can be found in the 18th century, but the major emphasis is on a development in the 20th century, as in the first half of this century there were many established puppet clubs (often within Sokol). In the second half of the last century, two interpenetrating lines have formed: folk (amateur puppetry) and professional (Naivní divadlo Liberec, independent groups and soloists).
Both lines are constantly interacting. There are currently over thirty amateur and some professional groups, Naivní divadlo Liberec, one of the most respected Czech puppet theater in the world, foremost among them.
Puppet tradition in the Liberec region manifests itself continuously to the present day.