Estonian Theatre for Young Audiences & Museum of Puppetry Arts

The Estonian Theatre for Young Audiences & Museum of Puppetry Arts is a unique cultural institution housed in a historic building at the corner of Nunne and Lai streets in Tallinn's Old Town. The theatre produces plays and performances aimed at children and families, while the museum showcases a fascinating collection of puppets from Estonia and around the world. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring hand puppets, marionettes, shadow puppets, and elaborate stage sets, many of which have been used in past productions. The museum offers interactive displays where children can try manipulating puppets, and the theatre itself hosts regular shows in Estonian (and occasionally with English surtitles). The building's medieval architecture adds to the charm, with vaulted ceilings and stone walls creating an atmospheric backdrop. What makes this place distinctive is its dual role as a working theatre and a museum, allowing visitors to see both the art and the craft of puppetry.

Don't miss

• See puppets from Estonian folklore and international productions in the museum galleries
• Watch a live puppet show at the theatre (check schedule for performances)
• Try your hand at operating puppets in the interactive exhibit area
• Admire the historic building's architecture, including vaulted ceilings and stone details
• Browse the gift shop for unique puppet-themed souvenirs and crafts

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Estonian Theatre for Young Audiences & Museum of Puppetry Arts

Cheapest way inHanoi Water Puppet Show Tickets: Convenient Delivery Service4.1★ · 221 travelers~1 hourFrom$7 per personSee dates →Most bookedGuided Old Town Tallinn Historical Walking Tour4.8★ · 471 travelers2–3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$41 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleTallinn Old Town Private Walking Tour with Native Estonian Guide5★ · 13 travelers2–3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$115 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Check the theatre's performance schedule online before your visit, as shows may sell out.
• Photography is usually allowed in the museum but not during performances. Flash is prohibited.
• The museum is very family-friendly, with hands-on activities for children of all ages.
• Museum labels are in Estonian and English. Theatre performances are primarily in Estonian, but some may offer English surtitles.

A bit of history

The Estonian Theatre for Young Audiences was founded in 1965, and the Museum of Puppetry Arts opened later to preserve the country's rich puppetry tradition. The building has served as a cultural venue for decades, hosting performances that entertain and educate young audiences.