giovannin the fearless
in event of rain, the performance will take place at Auditorium Biagio Marin
The story is about Giovannino, who is not yet ‘fearless’, and who must face the menacing Capra Ferrata: a comical opera singer and a clumsy game keeper take turns offering to help the frightened child in exchange for gifts, but they run away in terror. A selfless and generous little bird drives the ugly beast away by giving it a piece of its mind. Giovannino thus learns to distinguish real dangers from imaginary ones: he is now ready for adventure. In search of fortune and now ‘fearless’, he can face the terrifying inhabitants of the mysterious palace with confidence and determination, eventually becoming its master. Of the various endings presented in the different versions of the fairy tale found in the literature cited, the happiest one has been chosen here – as if on purpose!
Written and directed by Laura Poli
Puppets Carlo Staccioli
Costumes Pupi di Stac
Set design Massimo Mattioli
Music Enrico Spinelli
The Compagnia Pupi di Stac was founded by Carlo Staccioli (1915–1971) in Florence in 1946. Initially supported by many talented collaborators—including Paolo Poli himself—“Stac” formed an artistic partnership with Laura Poli (who joined the company in 1958) that refined a unique theatrical style. Following the founder’s death, Laura Poli, assisted by her son Enrico, continued the company’s work by focusing on researching, collecting, and adapting ancient Tuscan folk tales, many of which are still in their repertoire today.
All performances last about 60 minutes over two acts and are spoken and sung live, accompanied by recorded background music. The wooden carved puppets (pupi) are about 60 centimeters tall and, uniquely in the Italian tradition, feature full bodies. In short, they are ‘stringless marionettes’ operated from below or, if you prefer, ‘puppets with legs’—just like their most famous brother, Pinocchio.
The booths (baracche)—true miniature theatres complete with curtains, side wings, and backdrops—feature two performance levels: the main stage where the puppets can walk, and an upper level where they appear in a more traditional way. The direct dialogue with the audience and the fast-paced theatrical rhythm lie at the heart of a lively and unpredictable narrative: everyone, from young children to adults, watches spellbound and fully engaged from the beginning right through to the inevitable happy ending.
