Res Humanitariae

The article presents the oldest forms of puppet theatre in Samogitia, the use of puppets in their natural environment, from Church feasts to entertainment or educational activities with puppets in the home environment. It discusses the sources of puppet theatre in ethnic culture, presents the beginnings of the artistic language of puppet theatre in the spontaneous development of puppet theatre, from dolls and masks in ethnic culture and religious ceremonies, to playing with dolls in the home environment and family celebrations. Authentic testimonies from inhabitants of Samogitian towns and villages are presented: a real treasure for those exploring the material and intangible cultural heritage tradition of this region, introducing it into the region’s ethnic cultural space.