Eric Elder and Pupi Italici bring you…

A one-of-a-kind cultural experience: AN ITALIAN “PUPPET OPERA”!

Click here to watch a 1-minute trailer (filmed at the Italian Premiere in 2023)

Featuring drama, conflict, inspiration, and hope, the performance includes magical stage tricks for a powerful impact.

The show premiered in Sulmona, Italy in 2023, was released on Prime Video in 2024, and made its LIVE North American debut in the summer of 2025.

The show tells the true story of St. Nicholas—the backstory behind the man who became Santa Claus—and who has become a global symbol of HOPE.

The live show was be performed in Italian, with subtitles in English. It’s more than a show… it’s a wildly popular European phenomenon, and has now debuted in the US and CANADA!

About the puppeteers:

Born in Palermo, Italy, in 1985, Girolamo Botta’s passion for the arts was evident early on. After earning his diploma from the Istituto d’Arte, he immersed himself in the world of Sicilian puppet theater, honing his skills in various workshops and theaters renowned for the traditional “Opera dei Pupi.”

In 2013, Girolamo relocated to Sulmona, Italy, where he channeled his expertise into establishing Pupi Italici alongside Alessandra Guadagna.

Alessandra Guadagna, born in Miami in 1983 and raised in Abruzzo, exhibited a deep-seated passion for the arts from a young age. Her encounter with Girolamo in 2011 marked the beginning of a fruitful artistic partnership.

Alessandra is focused on crafting compelling narratives, directing performances, and skillfully maneuvering the puppets during shows. The troupe specializes in producing shows that delve into epic tales and historical figures, offering audiences a blend of education and entertainment.

About the show:

The show is based on the book St. Nicholas: The Believer written by Eric and Lana Elder. The book has been turned into an award-winning ballet, a hit Christmas musical, and now an Italian puppet opera!

Nominated for Best Stage Play at the International Christian Film and Music Festival!

And WINNER of Best Music Score, Feature Film at the Bracciano Film Festival in Bracciano, Italy.

The original book on which the show is based is available in English, Spanish, and Italian at inspiringbooks.com.

The show is produced by Pupi Italici (pupiitalici.com) and Eric Elder Productions (ericelder.com).

Contact us to book this unforgettable theatrical experience!

Until then, here’s a link to watch a 10-minute clip from the film Saint Nicholas: An Italian Puppet Opera…