Nukkeltu

Nukkeltu is a Finnish term used to describe puppet theatre or puppet shows, typically involving small-scale performances with puppets. The word derives from nukke, meaning doll or puppet, and is often used in more casual or informal contexts than the longer established term, nukketeatteri. In everyday language, nukkeltu can refer both to a single show and to the activity of presenting puppet performances in general.

Puppets used in nukkeltu can take various forms, including hand puppets, glove puppets, rod puppets, and sometimes simple marionettes. Performances are usually short and designed to engage audiences such as children, families, and school groups. Stories can be original or adapted from children’s literature, folklore, or classroom themes, and narration is often delivered by one or more puppeteers who may also perform voices or songs.

Nukkeltu has a strong presence in educational and community settings in Finland. It is commonly used in early childhood education and primary schools to support language development, storytelling skills, imagination, and social interaction. Libraries, cultural centers, and amateur theatre groups also organize puppet shows as accessible, interactive programming for diverse audiences. While professional nukketeatteri companies exist, the term nukkeltu more often connotes informal or participatory performances that invite audience engagement.

See also: Nukketeatteri, Puppetry, Finnish theatre.