Stephanie Rinke

Stephanie Rinke is a Professor and Dean of Studies at Faculty IV of the Stuttgart State University of Music and Performing Arts. She leads the Puppetry Theatre program and the Institute of Performing Arts Animation Theory / Puppet Theatre. Her career spans academia, theatre direction, and puppetry innovation.

• Education: Specialized in puppetry at Stuttgart State University of Music and Performing Arts (1997 graduation).

Rinke’s research and practice focus on puppet theatre, animation theory, and performing arts. She founded the award-winning PARADOX Puppet Theatre, contributing to theatrical festivals globally. Her work bridges traditional puppetry with contemporary performance techniques.

She has taught since 1999 and served as program director since 2011, shaping curricula and mentoring students. The PARADOX Puppet Theatre, under her leadership, has become a notable institution in applied arts education.