SACRED LOVE | University of Limerick Theatre Company “Il Funambolo”, directors Mauro Guindani and Damiano Privitera

SACRED LOVE
A hybrid puppet and ventriloquist performance

Directors Mauro Guindani and Damiano Privitera
The creator of puppets: Mariella Carbone

The performance focuses on the topic of violence against nuns by Catholic priests. Although the problem of pedophilia by priests has become public in recent years, the equally serious problem of sexual violence against nuns still remains taboo. A recent report by the French-language television channel “Arte” reveals horrifying facts and testimonies that can no longer be kept silent. The report mentions the names of two brother priests (both now deceased) who for many years abused the nuns of their brotherhood, exchanging them with each other. The play features three characters: the aforementioned brother priests and the fictional character Mother Superior, who will be portrayed by large (over a meter tall) puppets. The role of the victim, inspired by the nun who had the strength to reveal this story, will be played by actress Ava Loiacono. She will also be the narrator of the play and will control the puppets.

The play is part of a research project on artistic practice by Ava Loiacono, a student at the University of Limerick, as part of her PhD thesis (theme: “Embodiment of Voice in Puppet Theatre”).

Duration 50 min.
Performance in Italian with English subtitles

Read more about The International University Theatre Festival here.
More information on the XIII World Congress of the International University Theatre Association (AITU-IUTA): https://www.congress2026.kc.vu.lt/

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