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The Mercurio Family:
Master Puppeteers from Sorrento

The Mercurio family brings the ancient art of puppetry to the stage with passion and dedication passed down from generation to generation. Antonino, together with his family, is today the custodian of a unique Sorrentine tradition — one capable of enchanting young and old alike with shows that blend history, emotion and authentic craftsmanship.

Our Identity

Antonino Mercurio — the soul and driving force of this puppet theatre, custodian of an ancient and refined art form

Handcrafted puppets in the Mercurio family workshop in Sorrento
Antonino Mercurio backstage during a puppet theatre performance

Together with my family, I continue to honour this noble tradition...

My wife and I are the pillars of our family and our puppet theatre. Raffaella Belmonte, with her meticulous dedication and equally remarkable manual skill, creates small works of art: our puppets, which can be purchased at our travelling shows. She also delights audiences — young and old alike — with delicious candyfloss and freshly made popcorn. I am not only the custodian of a tradition rooted deep in the past, but also a creator of unforgettable stories that have the power to enchant both the young and adults. My passion for the art of puppet theatre is a flame that was ignited by my father, Ciro, and that burns even brighter today.

Our Identity

The Whole-Hearted Team
Behind the Magic

The Mercurio family is not just a name: it is a symbol of dedication, passion and respect for a tradition that risks disappearing. Antonino is its soul and driving force, supported by his wife Raffaella Belmonte — tireless in creating the puppets and in making every show a moment of pure celebration. Alongside them, their children and nephew complete a united team, where every member contributes their own skills with love and pride.

01
Raffaella
Belmonte
Raffaella Belmonte co-founder and puppet maker of the Mercurio family

The backbone of the puppet theatre and the beating heart of the family. With meticulous dedication and extraordinary manual skill, Raffaella brings our puppets to life: small works of art crafted with care and love. At every event, she delights the crowd with her delicious homemade snacks — a sweet touch that makes every performance even more special.

02
Cristiana
Cristiana Mercurio mascot of the Mercurio Puppet Theatre in Sorrento

Our little "mascot", who helps her mum prepare the candyfloss and serve the popcorn — contributing to an atmosphere of pure joy and fun, and adding a magical touch to every one of our shows.

03
Ciro Maria
Ciro Maria Mercurio heir to the Mercurio family puppet theatre tradition

My son is a fundamental pillar of the puppet theatre and my heir in this noble art. From a young boy, and now as a teenager, he has followed and supported this work with the same passion and dedication that have characterised the generations before him.

04
Fausto
Fausto nephew of the Mercurio family and puppet theatre team member

My dear nephew is another invaluable member of our team. With his enthusiasm and energy, he makes a significant contribution to everything we do — bringing with him a fresh wave of creativity and innovation.

Our Home

Our Home: Sorrento

Although our puppet theatre is itinerant and travels across Italy, our home is in Sorrento — a jewel of the Sorrentine Coast. Amid picturesque streets, breathtaking views of the sea and a timeless atmosphere, Sorrento is not simply our base: it is the source of our inspiration. Discover the deep bond between our art and this magical land, where tradition and beauty blend together perfectly.

Panoramic view of the sea from Sorrento on the Sorrentine Coast
Characteristic narrow streets of the historic centre of Sorrento
Main square of Sorrento during a summer evening
Panoramic view of the Sorrentine Coast from Sorrento

Your Business Deserves Something Special!

Do you run a business and are interested in collaborating or becoming one of our sponsors? The Mercurio Puppet Theatre is synonymous with reliability, professionalism and trustworthiness. Contact us today for a no-obligation conversation and discover how together we can create an unforgettable experience for your audience.

Antonino Mercurio performing at the Mercurio Puppet Theatre