Argentine Puppeteer Sergio Mercurio Brings Acclaimed "Velhos" to Northern Brazil
Argentine puppeteer Sergio Mercurio, renowned for over three decades of work and performances in more than 20 countries, will present his acclaimed show "Velhos" (Old People) in Brazil's Amazon region for the first time. The performances are scheduled to take place at CAIXA Cultural Belém from July 23rd to July 26th, 2026. "Velhos" is described as a sensitive, poetic, and profoundly human experience that transcends the traditional boundaries of puppet theater, targeting young adults and adults. Mercurio, who collaborates on stage with actress Rosi Jacomelli, explores themes of memory, affection, companionship, and the passage of time through his characters. The show features eight puppets manipulated with various techniques, from large figures to those controlled by the actors' feet. These characters are portrayed as ordinary individuals, complete with humor, vulnerabilities, and memories, aiming to foster a more delicate and tender perception of old age. "Velhos" is the first part of a trilogy dedicated to aging and is part of Mercurio's "Velhos e Seus Netos" project, which investigates intergenerational relationships through puppetry. The inspiration for the show stems from Mercurio's childhood memories of being cared for by his grandparents, emphasizing the importance of being 'looked at' for a child's development. Mercurio utilizes humor to approach sensitive topics like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, loneliness, and companionship, believing it to be more effective than moralizing. He chooses puppets because he feels inanimate objects can more honestly reveal the human condition, as living beings can deceive. The show has consistently evoked strong emotional responses from audiences, often prompting reflections on family relationships and personal futures. This Belém engagement marks a significant moment for Mercurio, representing his first encounter with the Amazonian public after years of international touring.
The international presentation of "Velhos" in Belém highlights the evolving landscape of performing arts, where traditional forms like puppetry are being recontextualized to address complex adult themes. The artist's deliberate choice to use humor and inanimate characters to explore sensitive aspects of aging and human connection suggests a strategy to bypass audience defenses and foster empathy. This approach leverages the inherent theatricality of puppets to comment on the human condition, potentially offering a unique perspective on generational dynamics and the societal perception of the elderly. The event underscores the global reach of cultural exchange and the capacity of art to bridge diverse audiences and foster introspection on universal life experiences.
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