Iran’s Puppet Theater Museum named best private gallery by ICOM
Iran’s Puppet Theater Museum was named the country’s top private museum by the International Council of Museums’ Iran Committee (ICOM Iran), officials said on Friday.
The recognition was announced during the 17th annual “Top Museum” ceremony, where ICOM Iran credited the museum’s strong focus on education in the current Persian calendar year, according to a report by ANA News Agency.
The museum, officially known as the Puppet Theater House Museum of Iran, was founded by actress Setareh Eskandari and artist Siavash Sattari. Both were honored at the event for their contributions to preserving and promoting Iran’s traditional puppet theater, known locally as Kheimeh Shab-bazi Museum.
Kheimeh shab-bazi is performed in a small chamber by a musical performer and a person called a morshed (mentor). The dialogue takes place between the morshed and the puppets, specifically the traditional Iranian puppet Mobarak.
The museum operates as a private institution and highlights one of Iran’s most cherished performing arts. Kheimeh Shab-bazi Museum, a form of puppet theater, is part of the country’s intangible cultural heritage and has earned international recognition for its historical and artistic value.
Among its weekly attractions is the “Happy Tuesdays” program, which draws visitors every Tuesday for live performances. Each session features a different story centered on the iconic puppet character, Mobarak. ICOM Iran praised the museum for its role in cultural education and public engagement, noting its innovative programs and commitment to keeping traditional arts alive.