The Puppet Showplace Theatre Blog

Journey to Japan with Cat Mountain

2012-01-22T10:55:00.003-05:00

THIS WEEK AT PST
Cat Mountain from Behind the Mask

Wed & Thurs | Jan 25 & 26 | 10:30am
Sat & Sun | Jan 28 & 29 | 1pm & 3pm

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Join PST on a trip to Japan as we follow Behind the Mask's elegant and creative adaptation of the tale of Sho and her journey!

About the show: Cat Mountain tells the story of Sho, a young servant girl, who journeys to a strange and far-off mountain, where she hopes to find her freedom and her lost cat. But as the people she meets on the way tell her – “ No one has ever returned from Cat Mountain!” Puppetry, dance, masks, and Japanese theater-styles all combine in Behind The Mask's original adaptation of this magical folktale.

Recommended for ages 4 & up.

About the performer: Eric Bornstein is truly an international mask-maker. Aside from receiving a MLA in Fine Arts from Harvard University, he also studied with masters in Bali and Italy. His work has appeared all over Boston, from productions of A Midsummer Night's Dream to the Harvard Yiddish Players' Shulamis, in museums like the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, the Isabella Stewart Gardener Museum, and with performing groups the Boston Lyric Opera and Boston Ballet. When he's not putting on exquisite shows, Eric keeps busy teaching classes on masks as well as offering residencies to schools in the state through Young Audiences of Massachusetts.

PST Presents: Puppet Showplace Slam!

2012-01-19T15:30:00.001-05:00

SATURDAY AT PST

Puppet Showplace Slam

Sat | Jan 21st | 8:00pm

Puppets aren't just for kids. Join PST this Saturday from 8pm to 10pm for more mature shows that adult fans can enjoy.

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About the slam: PST has shows for teens and adults? That's right, puppet fans. Every other month we stay open late on Saturday night to bring you a raucous evening of PG-13 puppet entertainment. We call it a "slam" because it's your only chance to get smashed in the eyeballs by every style of puppetry you can imagine. This slam features live music, and a brand new puppet show instigated by Ronald Binion, as well as the amazing punch and judy antics of Liz Joyce and from Goat on a Boat Puppet Theater.

The Princess, The Frog, and the Pea from Goat on a Boat

2012-01-18T14:11:00.003-05:00

THIS WEEKEND AT PST

The Princess, The Frog, and the Pea

by Goat on a Boat

Sat & Sun | Jan 21st & 22nd | 1pm & 3pm

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Goat on a Boat comes to Brookline all the way from Long Island, New York, to bring a fun new spin on classic fairytales!

About the show: Combining three well-loved stories, The Princess, The Frog, and The Pea delights audiences of all ages. A princess, a witch, an un-enchanted frog, a hoot owl and a neurotic pea who longs to be a hero are the stars of this mixed-up tale. Table top puppets.

Recommended for ages 3 & up.

About the performer: Liz Joyce is an accomplished performer whose puppets have entertained numerous audiences in the New England area. She has also appeared in festivals across the country, from New York to Chicago and even to Minnesota. Besides putting on shows, she serves as Regional Director for the Puppeteers of America and President of the Puppetry Guild of Greater New York.

Liz has also been in TV, appearing on long-running sitcom All My Children as Liz the Puppeteer. Recently she received an UNIMA Citation for her puppet operetta Sing a Song of Sixpence. The UNIMA Citation is the highest award in American puppetry.

The Monkey King at PST!

2012-01-17T18:30:00.003-05:00

The Monkey King

by Galapagos Puppets
Wed & Thurs | Jan 18th & 19th

Celebrate Chinese New Year with the magical Monkey King! Watch as Monkey makes mischief in the Heavens, eating all of the Jade Emperor's peaches and Lao-tze's elixirs. This performance features traditional Chinese hand puppets, original music, and intricate, stylized martial arts.

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Three Billy Goats Gruff This MLK Weekend!

2012-01-13T10:42:00.002-05:00

THIS HOLIDAY WEEKEND AT PST

Three Billy Goats Gruff

by Pumpernickel Puppets

Sat & Sun | Jan 14th & 15th | 1pm & 3pm

Mon | Jan 16th | 10:30am & 1pm

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Local favorite performer, Pumpernickel Puppets of Worcester, MA. returns to our stage this holiday weekend with two performances each day!

About the show: Two classic tales make up this wonderful show. In The Three Billy Goats Gruff, the quick-witted billy goats outsmart the troll, but the troll isn’t really mean – he’s just green, has a snaggletooth, and lives under a bridge. In The Lion and the Mouse, two unlikely friends – one very big and one very small – learn to help each other to solve their problems.

Performed with colorful, friendly hand puppets.

Recommended for ages 3 and up.

The Pumpernickel Puppets have had the honor of appearing at The Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC, The Center for Puppetry Arts, Atlanta, GA and the prestigious International Festival of Puppetry sponsored by the Jim Henson Foundation in New York.

Raccoon Tales by Brad Shur

2012-01-09T13:21:00.004-05:00

THIS WEEK AT PST!

Raccoon Tales by Brad Shur

Wed & Thurs | Jan 11th & 12 | 10:30am

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PST Artist in Residence, Brad Shur is back on stage this month with Raccoon Tales!

About the show: The animals in the forest are always getting into trouble playing tricks on each other. Will they learn their lessons? Three humorous tales inspired by the Native American tales of the Seneca tribe: How the Fox and the Raccoon Trick Each Other; Why the Blue Jay is Blue and the Gray Wolf Isn’t; and, Why the Bear has a Stumpy Tail. Hand puppets.

Recommended for ages 4 and up.

About the performer:

In the Fall of 2009 the Puppet Showplace Theatre (PST) announced the arrival of Brad Shur as the theatre’s new Artist in Residence. Brad made his debut at PST’s Halloween Extravaganza with his premiere “Doctor Doohickey’s Monster Machine.”Brad Shur has been professionally involved in puppetry for over 10 years. He began as a performer with the Providence puppet and mask company Big Nazo while studying ﬁlm and animation at the Rhode Island School of Design. He has worked in various capacities with Wood & Strings Theatre (Tennessee), and Vermont PuppetTree, and as a builder has designed and fabricated puppets for American Idol, Dollywood, and other theaters and performers from Austin, Texas to Boston, Massachusetts.

You can catch Brad at least once monthly at Puppet Showplace Theatre, performing any one of six shows in his repertoire: "Raccoon Tales," "Here Come the Clowns," "The Singing Turtle," "Dr. Doohickey's Monster Machine," "The Carrot Salesman," and his newest production "The Magic Soup and Other Tales."

Puppetry Class for Adults!

2012-01-04T14:29:00.001-05:00

Body Puppetry and Bharatanatyam

A 2-week movement intensive in stylized storytelling, classical Indian dance-theatre, and the creation of new work.

Instructor: Veronica Barron
Four sessions, January 9 - 19.
Monday and Thursday nights, 6:30 to 9:30 pm
Cost: $145 (PST members save 10%!)

About the class: Physical eloquence is a much sought-after skill across the performing arts. How might the highly stylized forms and storytelling structures of bharatanatyam, a classical dance-theater form from South India, enrich the work we do as puppeteers, theater artists, storytellers?

In this rigorous intensive, participants will work toward increased awareness, specificity, and control of their own movement while getting a taste of a performance philosophy that works from the outside in, using external physical shapes to generate internal emotional experiences for both audience and performer. In the first phase of the class, students will learn a traditional story-dance sequence, practicing eye exercises, mudras (hand shapes), and bhavas (emotional mask shapes). In the second phase, participants will deconstruct this dance sequence, identifying the body vocabulary and narrative tools used in order to use these new tools in conjunction with existing skills. Each participant will then create an original dance-theater composition based on a favorite story or myth. This intensive will leave artists armed with both improved physicality awareness and new tools for the creation of original work.

For ages 16 to Adult.

Travelin' Jack & Company by Applause Unlimited

2012-01-03T15:23:00.003-05:00

THIS WEEK AT PST

Travelin' Jack & Company

by Applause Unlimited

Jan 4 & 5 at 10:30am | Jan 7 & 8 at 1pm & 3pm

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Happy 2012! Winter Puppet Adventures continues into the new year with Applause Unlimited's unique performance of american folk tales all week long. See you at the theatre!

About the show: An itinerant puppeteer with a hand puppet booth and a knack for tall tales entertains family audiences in this original show, much as puppeteers did in America's colonial days. Three American folk-tales are told with hand puppets by a single puppeteer who serves as both narrator and character in the show. Based on a Jack tale, a slave story-song, and a morality tale, these stories reflect the depth, scope, and humor of early American storytelling. The first story, "Foolish Jack", is a Jack tale about Jack's adventures when he first leaves home. The second story is the story of "Why Dogs Chase Cats". The final story is "A Bundle of Troubles" and, like most morality tales, teach us a valuable life lesson: count your blessings, not your troubles. As contemporary as it is classic, this show is a delight for the whole family.

Recommended for ages 3 & up.

Vacation Week Programing...

2011-12-23T16:35:00.004-05:00

SPECIAL VACATION WEEK SCHEDULE:

Mr Punch's Christmas Carol
|Tues&Wed| Dec 27- 28|10:30am, 1:00pm, 3:00pm
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Hansel & Gretel
|Thu&Fri| Dec 29-30|10:30am,1:00pm, 3:00pm
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The Velveteen Rabbit
|Sat&Sun| Dec 31- Jan 1| 1:00pm & 3:00pm
|Mon| Jan 2| 10:30 & 1:00
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Winter Vacation is officially here and we are off to a great start! Today we were so fortunate to have a lovely donation of cupcakes from Party Favors to give away to everyone in the theater (That's Bella with her delicious treat) . In fact for the rest of our vacation programing( thru the 31st) a different bakery will be donating some a treat to our patrons. We are so lucky to have such amazingly generous businesses right here in our neighborhood! and providing our friends with a holiday treat is just our way of saying thanks for all your support.

Looking forward to next week... There are so many puppet shows!! Kicking us off on Tuesday and Wednesday Crabgrass Puppet Presents
" Mr. Punch's Christmas Carol." There are three shows scheduled for both days to allow maxim puppet viewing possibilities!

Then, on Thursday and Friday, check out the National Marionette Theatre with their performance of "Hansel and Gretal," again with three shows per day. Finish off 2011 and start the new year with Applause Unlimited's performance of " The Velveteen Rabbit" on Saturday and Sunday at 1:00 and 3:00 pm and Monday at 10:30am and 1:00pm. WOW That is a lot of Puppets!!!! Just a reminder, since vacation week is a very busy we definitely recommend ordering your tickets ahead of time and showing up at least 15 minutes before the start of the show. See you at the Theater!

Get Into The Holiday Spirt With " Christmas Mouse" by Wayne Martin Puppets

2011-12-19T11:24:00.010-05:00

Wed - Sat| Dec 21-24 | 10:30am|

Christmas almost here,

Enjoy the season with a holiday puppet show! Come into puppet showplace this week for "Santa Mouse" and get into the spirit. During our vacation week programing (starting Fri Dec 23rd) we will also be offering free baked goods to our patrons that have been generously donated by local bakeries. Let the holidays begin!

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About The Show:

"Santa Mouse," the timeless and beloved Michael Brown story, is magically brought to life through the artistry of award winning puppeteer Wayne Martin. Martin’s beautifully crafted puppets tell the charming tale of the little mouse with no name, living in great big house who upon giving a special gift to Santa one Christmas Eve becomes Santa Mouse, the helper Santa could never do without!

Following this charming yuletide tale you’ll board the North Pole Express and meet Rudolph, Peter and Penelope Penguin, Frosty and Martin’s trademark Juggling Christmas Tree, who breathlessly lights up and illuminates the way for the jolly old elf himself! All of these oversize hand puppets and marionettes perform special tricks in this festive open stage production!

Restrictions:

Recommended for ages 3 and up.

New Puppets Have Arrived!

2011-12-16T13:11:00.009-05:00

Puppet Showplace's Puppet Store is Stocked

Christmas is about a week away, Hanukkah starts on Tuesday night...You need gifts!! Well luckily, just in the nick of time Puppet Showplace has gotten in a new shipment of puppets that are now on sale in our lobby. We have new Folkmanis puppets and adorable marionettes with removable strings for easy disentanglement.
We have Fun finger puppets. We have peepers ( yes, you can make a puppet with only your hand and a pair of eyeballs as our intern Paul's hand is displaying in the picture to the right)... Wow we have a lot of potential presents!

Puppets are wonderful gifts for children of all ages. They encourage strong development of hand eye coordination, fine motor skills, story telling, and imagination. Whether you are looking for a beautiful hand puppet or a small finger puppet to top the perfect present, we have what you need. The store is open Tuesday thru Sunday so come on in and check out our puppets!

This week at PST...Let it Snow with The Snowflake Man by Puppet Kabob

2011-12-12T10:53:00.003-05:00

Wen & Thurs | Dec 14 & 15| 10:30|
Sat & Sun| Dec 17 & 18|1: 00 & 3:00|
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Ever Wanted to Take a Picture of A Snowflake? Wilson "Snowflake" Bentley did. This week Puppet Showplace Theatre presents The Snowflake Man by Puppet Kabob a show tells the story of the first man to ever photograph a snow flake!

About the Show:

The story of "The Snowflake Man" is inspired by Wilson Bentley. This self-educated farmer and scientist attracted world attention in 1885 when he became the first person to capture the image of a single snow crystal with a camera he connected to a microscope. "The Snowflake Man" is a unique trunk show of Czech-style marionettes and props backed by a pop-up book of water color paintings telling the story of "Snowflake" Bentley.
This show combines art, science, and New England history to magical effect. The Snowflake Man was awarded a 2011 UNIMA Citation of Excellence. This show is sponsored in part by a Creation Grant from the Vermont Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Recommended for ages 5 and up

Experience The A.R.T. This Winter!

2011-12-10T13:19:00.009-05:00

The Snow Queen

Presented by American Repertory Theater

December 10, 2011 - December 31, 2011

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Hey Puppet Showplace Folks, it's me again, your favorite pink monster reporting to you from Harvard Square, Cambridge! I just went to see The Snow Queen at the A.R.T., and it was EPICALLY AWESOME- a beautiful storybook adventure for the whole family filled with puppets, masks and more!

About the Show: Hans Christian Andersen's beloved fairy tale "The Show Queen" comes to life in this delightful new stage adaptation for children and their families. When a young boy named Kai is taken away by a wicked enchantress, his best friend Gerda must embark on a perilous journey to the north pole to rescue him. Using puppets, music and magic, this exuberant, heart-warming production will take you on a theatrical journey to a magical kingdom and the Snow Queen's icy palace.

Directed by Allegra Libonati, with original puppets by Michael Kane and featuring members of the ART Institute Class of 2012. Dec. 10-31. American Repertory Theater, Loeb Drama Center, Cambridge. $15. 617-547-8300.

Learn More: Find more info, rehearsal photos, activities and more on the A.R.T. website!

The Clowns Are Coming To Town!

2011-12-05T10:55:00.007-05:00

This Week at PST:

Clown Circus by Brad Shur

Wen & Thurs | Dec 7 & 8| 10:30|
Sat & Sun| Dec 10 & 11|1: 00 & 3:00|
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This week our Artist in Residence Brad Shur presents Clown Circus! Come on in and watch his cast of clowny characters as they bring songs & stories to excite and entertain. With shows on Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, there are plenty of chances to come in and clown around with this PST favorite!

About the Show:

Clowns come in all shapes and sizes, but everything about them is larger-than-life. Join "Dusty" and his friends Pierrot, Zany and Guffaw for this fun, interactive variety show that features circus-inspired singing, dancing, storytelling and more!

Restrictions:

Recommended for ages 3 and up.

This Weekend at Puppet Showplace... The Elves and the Shoemaker with the Gingerbread Man!

2011-12-02T10:12:00.007-05:00

Sat & Sun| Dec 3 & 4 | 1:00 & 3:00
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Our winter season continues to roll forward this weekend with The Elves and the Shoemaker with The Gingerbread Man by Romper Rhythm & Puppets. This wonderful collection of classic holiday folktales is fun for the whole family.

About the Show:

In this classic Grimm's folk tale, two Elves help a poor shoemaker get back in business. The fun continues when a Gingerbread boy arrives on the scene! Lots of humor, live music, and audience participation make this show a great seasonal choice.

Restrictions:

Recommended for ages 3 and up.

About The Performer:

Diane Kordas has been performing music for children and families since 1992, and puppet shows since 1998.Today, her classic and original stories with puppets, music, humor and audience participation are enjoyed by children and families at libraries, schools, outdoor events, parties, daycares and preschools throughout New England. Find out more on the Romper Rhythm WEBSITE

"Puppets at Night" is BACK!

2011-11-30T11:35:00.002-05:00

Boston-area debut of THE HOARDING SHOW at PST

Fri & Sat | December 9 & 10 | 8pm

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Puppet Showplace Theatre presents “The Hoarding Show” by Carole D’Agostino as part of its newly revived “Puppets at Night” adult series. Performances will take place on Friday and Saturday, December 9-10 @ 8:00 pm. Reservations strongly recommended.

The Hoarding Show is about the clutter we keep, mentally and physically, in our lives. This multi-puppet, one woman show, designed and performed by Carole D’Agostino, features three separate tales of hoarders: the story of the infamous Collyer Brothers told with intricate shadow puppets; a renter facing eviction depicted with miniatures, and an object theatre satire that markets the positive aspects of hoarding. The Hoarding Show will be presented with Trash: A Love Story, an original work by Boston-based artists Woellert & Clark.

Carole D’Agostino is a puppet performer and builder for television, film, and stage. Television: PBS’s SeeMore’s Playhouse, MTV2’s Crank Yankers, IFC’s Greg the Bunny, Noggin’s Upside Down Show. Theater: John Tartaglia’s ImaginOcean, Avenue Q, Shrek! The Musical, The Ohmies, Thomas the Tank Engine Life2, and Arias with a Twist. Web: The Weekly Daily News, Funny of Die: Frank the Horse. She recently appeared at the 2011 Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Tucker John’s Best Birthday Ever.

Woellert & Clark is a shadow puppet company based in Jamaica Plain. Matthew Woellert and Jonathan Clark grew up together in Columbus, Ohio. In Boston they have performed at The Boston Center for the Arts, Puppet Showplace Theatre, the Democracy Center, and numerous bars and galleries around town.

Tales From Snowy Lands by Sparky's Puppets!

2011-11-28T15:09:00.003-05:00

Wed & Thur| Nov 30 & Dec 1| 10:30
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The Winter Season at PST kicks off on Wednesday, November 30th, with Tales From Snowy Lands. Let this show transport you to realm of frosty fun.

About the Show:

Watch a snowman come to life, see a bear go ice fishing and visit a toymaker on a wintry day in this seasonal favorite by Sparky's Puppets.

Restrictions:

Recommended for ages 3 and up.

Winter Is Here

2011-11-28T10:54:00.008-05:00

Let The Adventures Begin...

You might not know it with the weather we have been having but maybe your memories of a great Thanksgiving feast this past Thursday let you know, the winter season is upon us!

With that in mind Puppet Showplace Theatre is proud to present our winter season:“ Winter Puppet Adventures.” Puppets? Adventures? Exciting? You bet it is!!!!!! Our winter season will feature not only amazing holiday programing, but also shows featuring puppets from around the world. Now how cool is that?

This season, Puppet Showplace Theatre takes you to snowy lands for holiday fun, then around the globe with stories and puppetry styles from distant cultures. Puppetry is a world-wide art form, and we hope you enjoy this opportunity to explore the terrain. Engage your imaginations! We're ready to fly!

Ever wanted to see Chinese hand puppets? Japanese Noh style masks ? African Trickster Tales? You can experience this and more at PST through the winter. Check out our Calendar for the season on our Website. We offer puppet performances every week on Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, with extra shows for the weeks of winter vacation.Lets be honest. It is gonna get cold out there. There is no better way to keep warm and entertained on a chilly day than to snuggle up with those you love and watch a puppet show!

Give the Gift of Puppetry This Holiday Season!

2011-11-21T12:55:00.010-05:00

Happy Holidays from PST!

It may be hard to believe, but the Holiday season is upon us. As the fall draws to a close so does our Fall Membership Drive so it seems like the perfect opportunity to remind everyone of this great opportunity to support a wonderful local theater and become a member.

Thinking about gifts for the Holidays? What could be better than the gift of puppet theater for those you love. Gift certificates are available, and Memberships make a great gift as well!

Members enjoy:

Priority Seating

Discounted tickets on all performances and classes.

Complimentary tickets*

Discounts on our puppet store purchases

discounts on birthday party rentals**

New Membership Drive: For anyone becoming a member for the first time, in addition to all the advantages to membership you will be supporting a wonderful nonprofit theater that has been bringing quality theater to children and adults for 37 years. Through November, all new members purchasing membership at the family level or above, will be entered to win a $25 gift certificate to Legal Sea Foods ( one of our wonderful season sponsors).

Already members? Refer someone to become a member and you too will be entered to win. So here's the deal... You need great gifts for the holiday, a membership to Puppet Showplace Theater make a great gift, you will be donating to a worthy nonprofit that provides cultural enrichment to children and adults in the local community, you don't need to wait in line at 12am on friday morning to get it!

HOLIDAY PARTIES! In keeping with the holiday season spirit, this year we are opening the theater for holiday parties. Want to host a holiday party at a truly festive location? Give us a call for more info 617.731.6400

* Number of complimentary tickets varies depending on level of membership

** For family level memberships and above

Thanksgiving Week at PST

2011-11-21T10:35:00.008-05:00

RACCOON TALES

|Wed| Nov 23| 10:30am

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JACK & THE BEANSTALK

| Fri| Nov 25| 10:30am & 1:00pm|

| Sat & Sun| Nov 26 & Nov 27| 1:00pm & 2:00pm

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Thanksgiving is almost here! Hope everyone is getting excited for a day of food, fun, family, and friends. And what could be more fun for the holiday than a trip with your loved ones to the Puppet Showplace. This week's schedule is special for Thanksgiving. On Wednesday come on over and watch Raccoon Tales by Artist in Residence Brad Shur. Then come back in the day after Thanksgiving for Spring Valley Puppet Theater's award winning.

Jack and The Beanstalk. For the long weekend we will have shows on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday! In addition, to show our thanks to our members for being a part of our family, members who attend one of our performances of Jack and The Beanstalk will be entered to win a free membership to the Wenham Museum. Happy Thanksgiving!!!

About Jack and the Beanstalk:

Can beans make wishes come true? They can and do in "Jack and the Beanstalk," the award-winning puppet production of Michael Graham's Spring Valley Puppet Theater.

This popular classic features beautifully crafted hand and rod puppets, colorful scenic design, special effects and an original script in which Jack, with the help of a clever Chicken, saves the day! The Spring Valley Puppet Theater production of "Jack and the Beanstalk" holds many surprises in this new approach to this old favorite

recommended for ages 3 and up

For more information on the Spring Valley Puppet Theater visit their website

This Weekend at Puppet Showplace... Snow White & Other Tales by Perry Alley Puppet Theatre

2011-11-16T10:00:00.001-05:00

Sat & Sun| Nov 19 & 20| 1:00pm & 3:00pm
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Come To Puppet Showplace this weekend for more fall fairy tales with " Snow White and Other Tales"
presented by Perry Alley Puppet Theater!

About the Show:

Sometimes kids just won't eat their dinner until their food comes to life and tells them a story. In this imaginative production, Dad gets his daughter Trinket to eat her dinner by performing Snow White in a most unusual way. Two other surprise fairy tales by Perry Alley Puppet Theatre will complete this wonderful puppet potpourri!

Restrictions:

Recommended for ages 5 and up

Puppets For Adults!

2011-11-14T11:11:00.005-05:00

Sat| Nov 19| 8:00pm

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This coming Saturday, the 19th of November, in addition to our regularly scheduled children's performances PST will present our November " Puppet Slam" featuring Puppet Pandemic! What is a " Puppet Slam?" you may ask. Well let us explain...Too many of people think of puppets as a form of entertainment for children. Well here at PST we ask the question " Why should kids have all the fun?" Adults need puppets too!! In that spirit every other month we bring you our "Puppet Slam," An evening of puppet vignettes designed for an older crowd ( recommended for ages 16 and up). Each piece is performed by a different artist or artists, and the content can be wide-ranging; some are elegant or poignant, others are satiric, irreverent, or humorous, and still others can be passionate, political, or spiritual in nature. If you have never been to a "Slam" before you should know it is really an experience not to be missed. If you are a seasoned "Slam" aficionado you know where you should be this Saturday! for more info and for the schedule of all upcoming slams at PST check out out website. Just a warning, this event tends to sell out so buy your tickets today!!

Coming this week... " Raccoon Tales" by Brad Shur

2011-11-14T10:41:00.007-05:00

Wed & Thurs| Nov 16 and 17| 10:30 am

Wed | Nov 23| 10:30 am

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On Wednesday and Thursday Brad Shur, PST's very own artist in residence, presents: Raccoon Tales

Come in and check it out. After all, At The Puppet Showplace we believe no week is complete without a puppet show!

About the Show:

The animals in the forest are always getting into trouble playing tricks on each other. Will they learn their lessons? Three humorous tales inspired by the Native American tales of the Seneca tribe: How the Fox and the Raccoon Trick Each Other; Why the Blue Jay is Blue and the Gray Wolf Isn’t; and, Why the Bear has a Stumpy Tail.

Restrictions:

Recommended for ages 4 and up.

Open House at Puppet Showplace!

2011-11-11T11:10:00.009-05:00

1st Light Festival!

Nov 17th, 5pm to 8pm

Brookline's annual 1st Light Festival is coming this Thursday, November 17th. Puppet Showplace is so excited to be a part of the fun again this year!

What is 1st Light? This annual festival in Brookline is a great chance to support local business. The event is full of scavenger hunts, handouts, giveaways, and... Puppet Performances! You can check out the full schedule of the events here.

Open House at PST!

When you come out to the festival, stop by Puppet Showplace for our 1st Light Open House. From 5:00pm to 8:00pm there will be a free puppet show every half hour! Meet the staff and take a look at all of the beautiful puppet displays in the lobby and in the theatre.

Also: Mom.com will be in the lobby at Puppet Showplace with free give aways! They are a super awesome website that provides deals on all kinds of great stuff parents might need. As an added bonus, for every person who signs up for the Mom.com email list, they will donate $2 to Puppet Showplace Theatre! What a great way to support our theater!

Can't make it to the event, but still want to sign up? Click here!

So to recap...Festival , Free Giveaways, Free Puppet Shows... SO MUCH FUN!!

Healing With Arts And Humor

2011-11-07T15:07:00.003-05:00

This weekend, in addition to our Puppets Shows we have an amazing event for our adult community:

The Consulate General of Israel to New England and Puppet Showplace Theatre Present: Healing With Humor and Art

A presentation and workshop by Israeli Master Artists Alina Ashbel and Vally Kulas

Saturday Nov 12th

The event is split into to parts including a morning lecture and and afternoon workshop ( limited to 15 participants). Both sections of the event are free! and will be extremely interesting. To find out more and to register, visit our website

While your there check out our other Adult class offerings, and Puppet Slam schedule. Remember, everyone (adults included!) needs puppets in their lives!

This Veterans Day Weekend...The Sorcerer's Apprentice

2011-11-07T12:17:00.011-05:00

Coming this Fri, Sat & Sun: more Tucker's Tales!

That's right everybody, this week we have a Tucker's Tales invasion. On Wednesday and Thursday come see "The Goose is Loose." Then on Friday, Saturday and Sunday come out for another dose of Tucker's Tales with "The Sorcerer's Apprentice." Wow, that's five chances to see a puppet show this week at PST How exciting!!!

About the Show:

The castle of an evil magician is a dangerous place for a young boy with uncontrolled curiosity. Our youthful hero must cope with some pretty messy predicaments after he is apprenticed to his wicked master. Can Rusty save the wood-nymphs and overcome the power hungry sorcerer? Will he be able to free the forest from the spell of darkness?

The Brothers Grimm classic fairy tale comes to life on the stage of Tuckers’ Tales Puppet Theatre in this presentation, bringing you about as much fun as you can have in the dungeon of an old castle.

Restrictions: Recommended for ages 5 and up.

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Coming This Week To Puppet Showplace...

2011-11-07T11:07:00.005-05:00

This week at puppet showplace a real treat: The Premiere of a new Show

by Tucker's Tales:" The Goose Is Loose"

This wonderful new show by Tucker's Tales, set in the Land of Mother Goose, features beautiful crocheted puppets modeled after the designs of our theater's founder Mary Churchill. A puppet performance not to be missed!

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About the show:

How can Mother Goose have lost her Goose? And where in the land of Nursery Rhymes did she wander? Poor Mother Goose must enlist the aid of her many friends as she seeks to find poor Lucy Goosey. Will her search through the Nursery Rhymes be successful? Can Simple Simon find a simple solution? Is a clue hiding under Miss Muffet’s tuffet?
Join Tuckers’ Tales and many of Nursery Land’s most famous characters as we travel through the beloved Nursery Rhymes of Mother Goose and solve the mystery of Lucy Goosey’s disappearance.

Restrictions:

Recommended for ages 3 and up.

About the Performers:

TUCKERS’ TALES PUPPET THEATRE, the Performing division of Puppet Perceptions, Inc., is a Philadelphia area based performing company founded in 1981. Co-directors Marianne and Tom Tucker have performed at puppet, folk, ethnic and street festivals, and at craft fairs, shopping centers, theaters and schools around the country. Audiences from small children to senior citizens have enjoyed the variety of styles skillfully displayed in their interesting programs.

Check Out Their Website

Hanging Out at the Theater

2011-11-04T13:38:00.004-04:00

Even when there are no shows PST is still filled with puppety goodness. Yes thats right, no performances, but Puppet Showplace Theater is open on Fridays. Never been here before? stop in and say hi or check out the puppets for sale in our lobby. As we are doing our office work we are listening to Labyrinth and getting excited for our next puppet show ( Sir George & The Dragon) that starts tomorrow. For those who are not familiar with Labyrinth here is a sample of this amazing Henson Movie from the 80's. You should definitely check it out!

(warning although this movie is for children, there are some parts of the film that are a little scary so it might be best for older children)

Coming This Weekend To The Puppet Showplace...:

2011-11-04T10:57:00.003-04:00

Sat & Sun| Nov 6 and 7| 1:00pm &3:00pm

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Thats right! the weekend is here!! Time for another Puppet Show at PST. Coming this weekend:

Sir George & the Dragon by Romper Rhythm & Puppets

About the show:

A fun and exciting medieval tale with Diane’s trademark humor and audience participation to update this classic. The knight Sir George rescues the Princess Petunia from a very hungry baby dragon. No swords here, but Sir George subdues the dragon just the same!

Restrictions:

Recommended for ages 3 and up.

About the Performer:

Diane Kordas has been performing music for children and families since 1992, and puppet shows since 1998. As a registered nurse and later as a mom she started using music and puppets to entertain and educate her patients, friends and family. Today, her classic and original stories with puppets, music, humor and audience participation are enjoyed by children and families at libraries, schools, outdoor events, parties, daycares and preschools throughout New England.

Find out more on her website

Bella Monster at Arts Emerson!

2011-11-02T23:45:00.005-04:00

Hi everyone, it's your favorite pink monster reporting from Boston's Theatre District! Tonight I went to see Mabou Mines Dollhouse at Arts Emerson, and it was a BLAST!

They are happy to offer patrons of Puppet Showplace Theatre $5.00 off each ticket when you use

DISCOUNT CODE: PSTDH5

BUY TICKETS

NOV 01 – 06
Cutler Majestic Theatre

Mabou Mines DollHouse

The production is playing This Week Only—Ending the 9-Year World Tour in Boston! How exciting! This means it is your last chance ever to see the world-renowned reinterpretation of Ibsen’s classic.

“THE WHOLE EXPERIENCE IS SO FASCINATING, THRILLING HERE, CONFOUNDING THERE, THAT IT MUST BE SEEN.”

—THE NEW YORK TIMES

About the show: The dollhouse is a man’s world and only doll-like women, who allow their men to feel grand, can hope to live in it. You may think you’ve seen Ibsen’s A Doll’s House, but acclaimed director and MacArthur Fellow Lee Breuer gives this world of patriarchy and pretense a new twist—the all-powerful male characters are less than 4 ½ feet tall and the women 6 feet tall. Here, Ibsen’s feminism is metaphorically rendered as a parable of scale, and this unusual take on the physical world of the play results in startling insights and unexpected humor. This production is perhaps the most celebrated among a range of experimental, contemporary interpretations of classic works.

Note to parents: This incredibly colorful, energetic, and fantastical production is meant for an adult audience. (and monsters, I had a wonderful time!)

EXTRAS: Post-Performance Discussion with the Cast, Sunday, NOV 6. Following the final performance Sunday @ 2pm, join cast members for a look back on the production’s extraordinary journey.

Enjoy the show!

-Bella :)

The Carrot Salesman by Brad Shur

2011-10-31T15:58:00.002-04:00

Coming to PST...

Wed & Thur| Oct 22 and 23 | 10:30am

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Start November with a puppet show!! Coming to the Puppet Showplace this Wednesday and Thursday

" The Carrot Salesman" by Brad Shur our artist in residence

About the Show:

Join Mr. Bunni, the door-to-door vegetable salesman as he journeys beneath the earth, into the sea, and even to outer space in search of new customers. Through his unsuccessful efforts to sell carrots to elephants, jellyfish, moles, and robots, he discovers a way to help all of the animals. This colorful 2D table-top performance features plenty of audience interaction! Recommended for ages 3 and up.

My Day at King Richard's Faire

2011-10-28T11:51:00.019-04:00

My name is Stacey Polishook and I am a marketing intern at PST. That's me in the pirate hat :-) From time to time I would like to share with you interesting puppet facts, puppets sighting’s in the community and other puppet fun! So without much ado...My first Puppet Post:

Last weekend I was fortunate enough to attend the last day of King Richard's Faire in western MA. For those of you who don't know, King Richard's is a Renaissance Faire, i.e. a crazy place where

people dress up in renaissance and medieval garb and engage in sword fights, perform juggling acts, sell bodices, potions, and a variety if other medieval wares. Of course another thing your are likely to find at King Richard's is the errant puppet or two, and this year's faire did not disappoint. I saw quite a few people who had brought puppets into their costumes or performances but there were two of note that I wanted to share.

The first was an amusing bit done by a few "doctors" who were carting around an ailing woman and offering "plague shots" to protect against the affliction that had taken down the unfortunate lady.

One arm was a fake and was doctored to look as if it was decaying. Meanwhile, a crow puppet ( activated by her real hand concealed under a blanket) surreptitiously snacked on the the decayed "flesh."The effect was very subtle and extremely effective! (photo right)

The next puppet of note was an amazing

monster/ creature. The operator wrote a costume of fur over his entire body. To enable him to see, the puppeteer's face was slightly exposed with a fencer's mask. This mesh mask was barely visible however due to the long beard and neck of his creature which came up over his back. Controls were hidden under his massive fur costume. The illusion was fantastic. The neck moved very naturally and the mouth of the creature had the ability to open and close.

So there you have it. King Richards Faire is unfortunately closed for the year but will reopen next September. If you missed out this year, here is a video! Enjoy!

New Marionettes at the Puppet Store!

2011-10-26T18:59:00.004-04:00

PST has a Puppet Store?

That's right! Puppet Showplace Theatre is not only the center for puppetry arts in New England where you can catch a different puppet show each week, or take a puppet making class. We also have a store where you can take home your very own puppets! The store selection ranges from colorful finger puppets by Mary Meyer to beautiful stage puppets by Folkmanis. There is quite a selection to choose from!

New this week in the Puppet Store are marionettes by Sunny Puppet Company! In addition to favorites including the Ballerina and Wizard marionettes, now we have a Fireman, Clown, baby elephant, baby tiger, baby schnauzer (sooo cute!) and many others!

COMING SOON

We are expecting these awesomely colorful frogs within the next couple of weeks! Sunny marionettes are the perfect way for your little ones to practice and play with marionettes at home. They are designed for little and big hands alike to manipulate and come to life!

Store Hours: Tues through Sun, 10am to 4pm.

FALL IS IN THE AIR...KICK OFF THE YOUR HALLOWEEN FUN THIS WEEK WITH THE MARVELOUS...THE MAGNIFICENT... DR. DOOHICKEY'S MONSTER MACHINE!!!!

2011-10-24T14:24:00.010-04:00

Wed & Thurs | Oct 26 and 27 | 10:30am

Sat & Sun| Oct 29 and 30 | 1pm & 3pm

Its getting cold out there and October is nearing its end. Halloween is close at hand...There is no better time to see a puppet show! Come

kick off Halloween week at The Puppet Showplace Theater with a monstrously appropriate puppet production of Doohickey's Monster Machine performed by our artist in residence Brad Shur.

About the show:

Dr. Doohickey thinks that the world would be much more exciting if people were a little more like monsters, don’t you? Join the doctor and his assistant Reginald the Rabbit as they use music, machines and a little magic to bring funny monsters to life.

Restrictions:

Recommended for ages 4 and up.

And kids, don't forget! we want your reviews of Dr. Doohickey!!! So come out, see the show, go to our Facebook Wall and tell us what you thought. You have the chance to become our featured reviewer and have your review posted on our blog. Who knows you you might just start your journalism career right here at PST!

Calling all kids: Puppet Show Reviewers Wanted!

2011-10-21T15:20:00.006-04:00

Do you like seeing puppet shows? Are you good at show and tell? Have you ever thought about writing reviews?

…Well, guess what! Puppet Showplace Theater would LOVE to have you review our Halloween week shows!

Here’s the deal:

Step 1. Come out to see Dr. Doohickey’s Monster Machine

Step 2. Write a review of the show. What was the best part of the story? Who was your favorite character? Was the show funny? Scary? Who else might like to see this show? If you want to include a picture or drawing as well, please do!

Step 3. Post your review on our Facebook Wall by Monday October 31st at 5pm

We will select one reviewer to be featured on our website following the show!

Photo by Meredith Pomeroy. Keep an eye out at PST for this awesome red practice puppet who has traveled the world with No Strings International. Thanks to head puppeteer Ronald Binion for letting us borrow him!

The Frog Prince by Pumpernickel Puppets

2011-10-17T13:16:00.005-04:00

Coming this weekend To PST...

Sat & Sun| Oct 22 and 23 | 1pm & 3pm

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Our fairytale fall continues this weekend with another classic story "The Frog Prince" by Pumpernickel Puppets this Saturday and Sunday.

About the Show:

Young Prince Tad has been caught teasing the forest creatures again. A magic tree turns the prince into a frog to teach him a lesson. Along the way he meets a princess who could turn him back with a kiss. Yuck! Will she do it? All ends happily as the characters learn about being kind and keeping promises.

Recommended for ages 4 and up.

About the Performer:

For over thirty five years the Pumpernickel Puppets have captivated audiences of all ages. John McDonough and his puppets present over two hundred fifty shows a year at schools, libraries and private parties throughout the New England area.

More Info

Spooky Story Station!

2011-10-17T10:24:00.007-04:00

COMING SOON TO PST....A SPOOKY STORY STATION FOR YOU AND ME. COME OUT AND MEET OUR SPOOKTACTLAR FRIENDS. AT THE PUPPET SHOW PLACE THE FUN NEVER ENDS. AN ENCHANTED TRAIN TAKES YOU TO DISTANT LANDS, NOT TO BE MISSED IN YOUR HALLOWEEN PLANS.....

The leaves are finally changing and the air is getting cooler. All signs that we are nearing one of our favorite fall festivals...Halloween! And What better way to celebrate than with Puppet Showplace's Spooky Story Station!!!!!!!!! On October 31st our theater will be transformed into a enchanted train station filled with spooky, strange, and silly creatures. All aboard for Halloween fun! Join friendly ghosts, baby zombies, and furry monsters as they welcome trick-or-treaters. More spectacular than scary, the Spooky Story Station will be your most memorable stop on Halloween Night. All visitors get to take home a finger puppet! For trick-or-treaters aged 5 to 105!!!!!!! Check out the performers on our website

HALLOWEEN NIGHT, October 31, 2011

Open for visitors 5:00 to 8:00 PM

Pay-what-you-can-admissions (suggested $5 to $20 per family)

A Woodland Cinderella by Deborah Costine

2011-10-12T15:42:00.004-04:00

Coming Soon!

Wed & Thurs | Oct 19th and 20th | 10:30am

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More Fall Fairy Tale fun continues with "A Woodland Cinderella" by Deborah Costine next wednesday and Thursday.

About the Show:

In this new version of the classic story, Cinderella is a fairy who lives with her stepmother and stepsister in an enormous old tree in the forest. The King of all woodland fairies wants his son to marry a fairy princess, but none can be found. So the King hosts a great ball and commands that every single fairy maiden in the land must attend. He knows the secret to identifying a true fairy princess!

Recommended for Ages 3 and up

About the Performer:
Deborah is co-founder of the award-winning Gerwick Puppets, a company that has been performing throughout New England since 1974. “A Woodland Cinderella” is a 2008 winner of the coveted UNIMA USA CITATION OF EXCELLENCE and was selected for a series of performances at the Center for Puppetry Arts in Atlanta in 2010

Puppet Film Night: Handmade Puppet Dreams, Volume II Coming to PST!

2011-10-12T11:37:00.008-04:00

Puppets are not just for the stage! Sesame street,

the Muppet Show, Labyrinth... there are so many amazing example of puppets who have leaped off the stage and entered a career in film. Come to Puppet Showplace this weekend and check out some amazing puppet cinematography in Handmade Puppet reams, Volume II this Saturday, Oct 15th.

This unique collection features not one, but ten puppet films in one night! Come see why this series, put together by Heather Henson (daughter of Muppet creator Jim Henson), has been loved by audiences across the country. These movies range from silly to beautiful, poignant to absurd. Together, they showcase the "next generation" of puppeteers who embrace film as their medium.

The show starts at 8:00pm and popcorn is included in the price of admission ( Who doesn't like FREE FOOD!). There will also be a special appearance by alumni of the "Furry Monsters 101" class.

So to recap...Saturday October 15th, 8:00pm, 10 Puppet films, A Furry Monster performance, and free popcorn!!! You really can't afford to miss this event so you better reserve your tickets today! Just remember this show is for older puppet enthusiasts and is recommended for ages 16 and up. Check out this preview...

Want to learn more about this film ( including a list and decription of the short films included in this volume of puppets dreams) and other Handmade Puppet Dream productions? Check out this link to their WEBSITE

Fairy Circus by Tanglewood Marionettes

2011-10-09T23:59:00.003-04:00

Coming This Week!

Wed & Thurs |Oct 12 & 13|10:30am

Sat & Sun |Oct 15 & 16| 1:00am & 3:00pm

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About this show:

You’re invited to an enchanted garden with surprises around every corner! The Fairy Circus features classic trick puppets and beautifully handcrafted marionettes. The puppets will dance, play instruments, juggle, contort, transform, and fly through the air with the greatest of ease, all to the music of favorite composers!

Recommended for ages 4 and up.

About the performers:

Founded in 1993 by Anne Ware and Peter Schaefer, Tanglewood Marionettes is a nationally touring marionette theater based in New England. Our repertoire consists primarily of classic tales performed by skilled puppeteers who have spent many years perfecting their art.

more info

PuppetPalooza!!!

2011-10-07T15:01:00.006-04:00

PuppetPalooza!!!! need I say more...ok, maybe I do....Wenham Museum is hosting an exhibit entitled PuppetPalooza from October 7th thru January 16th. The description on the website states:

"Explore the wild and wonderful world of puppets—from tiny finger puppets to huge street puppets—in this playful and highly interactive exhibit. Become a puppeteer—make a dragon street puppet slither through the gallery, cast a puppet's shadow across a screen, pull the strings of a marionette, or put on a show with hand puppets." READ MORE

Sounds pretty amazing! To top it all off, the exhibit features puppets created by PST's Artist in Residence Emeritus, Paul Vincent Davis as well as puppets of Mary Churchill, the founder of Puppet Showplace. Want more PUPPETY FUN? This Sunday, October 16th, you can attend a PuppetPalooza Exhibition Party free with admission Now how cool is that!

Cultural Care Au Pair at Puppet Showplace

2011-10-07T13:35:00.007-04:00

Looking for an au pair? Cultural Care Au Pair is going to have a small table in the lobby at Puppet Showplace on Columbus Day between 11am and 1pm. Come check them out!

Want to learn more about the organization?

Have a look at their website.

New Pictures of Honk Fest on Facebook!

2011-10-07T12:20:00.004-04:00

Hey Everybody. Last weekend we were out and about at Honk Fest with our good friend Goldie the extra large goldfish made this summer in the Think Big! Giant Puppet Construction class. Luckily for us there was no rain to melt our paper mach fish and everyone seemed to love her. Thanks so much to all our volunteers who showed up to help out! You can check our pictures of the event on our facebook page

Father Goose's Tales by Nappy's Puppets

2011-10-05T15:21:00.002-04:00

This Weekend!

"Father Goose's Tales" by Nappy's Puppets

Sat & Sun|Oct 8 & 9|1:00pm & 3pm

Mon |Oct 10|10:30am&1:00pm

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About this Show:

Trouble in the nursery....Mother Goose has taken the day off and Father Goose must do all her chores, including the storytelling! Try as he might, Father Goose just can't get the stories right....Father Goose's Tales is a modern retelling of nursery rhymes, stories and children's songs that will entertain the whole family!

About the performer:

Nappy’s puppets offers a variety of educational and entertainment possibilities: private parties, school assemblies, workshops, fund raisers and professional development days. offers a variety of educational and entertainment possibilities: private parties, school assemblies, workshops, fund raisers and professional development days.Nappy's Puppets is dedicated to presenting quality puppet theater to audiences of all ages. The goal of each performance is to entertain, inspire and educate the audience on the range and scope of puppetry as an art form.

more info

Little Red Riding Hood by Wonderspark Puppets

2011-10-01T16:01:00.001-04:00

COMING SOON!

"Little Red Riding Hood" by Wonderspark Puppets

Wed & Thurs | October 5 & 6 | 10:30am

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Our Fall Fairy Tale Festival continues with a spirited rendition of "Little Red Riding Hood" by Wonderspark Puppets next Wednesday and Thursday.

About this show: Little Red is sent into the big woods to deliver a basket of goodies to her sick Grandmother, but is hounded by a hungry wolf who wants the basket for himself.

Will Little Red be able to outsmart the wolf and save her Grandmother?

About the performers: Founded by husband and wife team Chad Williams and Lindsey "Z" Briggs, WonderSpark Puppets infuse fun and whimsy into all their performances. Z has worked as a professional puppeteer for the last 7 years as a performer and builder on numerous projects, while Chad is a filmmaker turned puppeteer, having shot and edited two puppetry documentaries. Located in New York City, WonderSpark is happy to perform puppet shows for kids and adults alike in all sorts of venues. more info

The Three Wishes by Spring Valley Puppet Theater

2011-09-26T13:53:00.007-04:00

THIS WEEK AT PST

"The Three Wishes" & "The Wolf in Sheep's Clothing" by Spring Valley Puppet Theater

Thurs | September 29 | 10:30am

Sat & Sun | October 1 & 2 | 1pm & 3pm

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Our Fall Fairy Tale Festival continues this week with TWO classic stories! Spring Valley Puppet Theater returns to perform "The Three Wishes" and "The Wolf in Sheep's Clothing" this Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

About this show: What would you do if a magical Elf gave YOU three wishes? That’s just what happens to Henry and Gretchen in this puppet production of “The Three Wishes.” This folktale favorite is flavored with a dash of dialogue, a generous helping of humor and the plot twists for which Spring Valley Puppet Theater is known.

In the second story, a hungry Wolf tries to outwit the savvy Shepherd and make a meal of the helpless, little Lamb. Helpless? Maybe not! Adapted from the Aesop Fable, "The Wolf in Sheep's Clothing" is enlivened with a colorful Mexican setting, a humorous communication gap and a surprise ending!

About the performer: Michael Graham has been performing professionally since 1977, the year Spring Valley Puppet Theater was established. Every puppet he uses in his performances is hand crafted. Additionally, he designs and builds his own sets, writes the scripts, and creates the voice and music tapes. Michael's production of “Jack and the Beanstalk” was awarded the 1994 UNIMA-USA Citation of Excellence in the Art of Puppetry by the American Center of the Union Internationale de la Marionette.

A highly sought-after instructor, he has taught at the University of Connecticut Puppet Arts program, the Institute of Professional Puppetry Arts (IPPA) at the O'Neill Theatre Center in Waterford, Connecticut and has presented casting and hand puppet construction workshops for puppetry guilds in Connecticut and Massachusetts. more info

PST in the Community

2011-09-23T15:56:00.010-04:00

Hi everyone! We hope you have been enjoying the FALL FAIRYTALE FESTIVAL at PST. We have seen some amazing artistry on our stage, and now we're inspired to bring puppets into the streets.

On October 2nd, Puppet Showplace Theatre will be part of the sixth annual HONK! Parade. We will march with "Goldie," our new and celebrated giant goldfish puppet, down Mass Ave from Davis to Harvard Square. Interested in marching with us? E-mail artistic@puppetshowplace.org by September 29th for details!

We at PST love events like this that give us an excuse to go into the community and work with other organizations to make people smile. Part of PST's mission is to work in collaboration with area businesses, schools, and cultural organizations to improve people's lives. We do this through our touring workshops and school residencies, our appearances at cultural festivals and events, and our collaborations with institutions ranging from hospitals to teen centers to foreign consulates. Our Mary Churchill Fund, named for our founder, helps us bring children from under-served communities to see high-quality, educational performances.

Recently, PST partnered with the Brookline Recreation Department to offer an after-school puppetry enrichment program at our theatre. We hope to expand this into a full summer camp next year.

How would YOU like to see PST get involved in the community? Your ideas - and assistance! - are welcome as we strive to make this vision a reality!

P.S. In case you haven't met her, Goldie was designed and built in just one week last July by members of PST's "Think Big" all-ages giant puppet class, taught by Artist in Residence Brad Shur. In less than a month, Brad will begin teaching an awesome class for adults and teens called Puppet Building 101.

Mystery of Queen Lake by Theatre of Life

2011-09-19T17:46:00.005-04:00

THIS WEEK AT PST

"Mystery of Queen Lake" by Theatre of Life

Thurs | September 22 | 10:30am

Sat & Sun | September 24 & 25 | 1pm & 3pm

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Our Fairy Tale Festival continues with Sammy the Snail in "Mystery of Queen Lake" by Theatre of Life this Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

About this show: Audience involvement and a musical extravaganza highlight this magical Medieval tale. A visually impaired princess is our heroine who along with Sammy Snail encounter hilarious situations and enchanting puppets including a giant fish! An absolute delight for the youngest to the oldest audience member!

Recommended for ages 3 & up.

About the performer: Lesley Smith is a renowned ventriloquist, puppeteer and singer/songwriter employing the vehicles of humor, dynamic vocals and puppetry to entertain corporations, festivals, school children and their families across the country. As a New England Foundation for the Arts touring artist, the Theatre of Life Puppets has become a premier educational entertainment troupe. More info.

Adult Classes This Fall!

2011-09-14T20:32:00.008-04:00

ADULT PUPPETRY CLASSES AT PST

Classes for adults at PST are the perfect way to take your love of puppetry to the next level. Whether you are an aspiring puppeteer, avid puppet fan, or seasoned performer seeking to learn a new style of puppetry, reserve your spot today!

Furry Monsters 101 starts THIS THURSDAY! There are still a couple of spots available!

Furry Monsters 101Four Thursday Evenings
September 22 - October 13, 7PM - 9PM
Ages 16 and up-$150

Taught by Jonathan Little, PST Slam Emcee

About the class: This class will focus on the proper manipulation of Muppet-style hand and rod puppets regularly featured on Sesame Street, The Muppet Show, and Avenue Q. Professional puppeteers know how to make these characters appear as living, breathing beings with their own thoughts, desires, and motivations. After learning the basics of proper body position, breathing, lip-synch, and focus, your hand will start to have a mind of its own.

Students will produce an original sketch of their own from beginning to end which will be showcased on Saturday 10/15 @ 8:00 pm. In-class practice puppets and camera equipment will be provided by the instructor. This is an ideal class for actors, comedians, die-hard Muppet fans, dancers, animators, or anyone interested in learning puppetry. Class size is limited: enroll today!

Puppet Building 101

Monday evenings 6:30 to 8:30 pm

8 sessions October 17th - December 12th (No class on Halloween, Oct 31)
Cost: $200 + $25 materials fee (includes take-home sculpting materials!)Register Online!PST Members save 10%!
Instructor: Brad Shur

About this class: Puppets are moving sculptures carefully crafted to be brought to life. Engineering plays a crucial role in shaping a puppet's character and movement abilities. In "Puppet Building 101" participants will each create an original sculpted hand puppet from scratch. To begin, class members will learn how to turn their ideas into drawn designs, ready to be produced. From there, participants will learn how to sculpt plasticine, apply paper mache, pattern and sew fabric, and apply other materials to turn their designs into fully functional, performance-ready works of art!

Note: While hand puppets are the primary example that will be used in class, the methods and materials presented in "Puppet Building 101" can be applied to many different styles of puppet construction.

Weekday Shows Begin this Week!

2011-09-12T09:00:00.002-04:00

LAND OF ENCHANTMENT by Sparky's Puppets

Thursday, September 15th at 10:30am

Saturday & Sunday, September 17th & 18th at 1pm & 3pm

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About this show: You never know who might pop up...a goblin, a wise woman, an elf or a leprechaun! A rollicking assortment of enchanted objects, secret powers, and hilarious adventures...all from the magical world of children's books.

Recommended for ages 3 & up.

About this performer: Sparky’s Puppets have been delighting children throughout New England for over 20 years. Sparky Davis, the puppeteer, has degress in English, education, and library science. She began dramatizing children’s literature while working as a school librarian, and now performs these tales in schools, libraries, and festivals.

Performances by Sparky Davis are perennial favorites at Puppet Showplace Theatre. Her gentle approach, lively sense of humor, unique interpretations of familiar tales, and imaginative original characters make for a wonderful show!

Puppet Showplace Slam: Puppets for Adults!

2011-09-04T21:19:00.014-04:00

THIS SEPT AT PST

Puppet Showplace Slam!

Saturday, Sept 17th at 8pm

$13/Students & Members

$15/General Admission

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PST has shows for teens and adults? That's right, puppet fans. Every other month we stay open late on Saturday night to bring you a raucous evening of PG-13 puppet entertainment. We call it a "slam" because it's your only chance to get smashed in the eyeballs by every style of puppetry you can imagine.

About this slam: This month, the Puppet Showplace Slam will feature performers from across the country and includes a juggling lobster, the award-winning "Show of Hands," and the debut performance of "WAR SHEEP." Never been to a slam before? Check out real-life footage from our last Slam, documented by Boston University Students in the short film, "A Guide to Doll Wiggling."

A Guide to Doll Wiggling

2011 - 2012 Puppet Showplace Slam Schedule:

Saturday September 17, 2011
8:00 pm at Puppet Showplace Theatre
FEATURING Circus lobsters, "War Sheep," Gepetta, and more!
Order Tickets Now!

Saturday November 19, 2011
8:00 pm at Puppet Showplace Theatre

Saturday January 21, 2012
8:00 pm at Puppet Showplace Theatre

Saturday March 17, 2012
8:00 pm at Puppet Showplace Theatre

Saturday May 19, 2012
8:00 pm at Puppet Showplace Theatre

Saturday July 21, 2012
8:00 pm at Puppet Showplace Theatre

Rumplestiltskin by Dream Tale Puppets

2011-09-04T21:07:00.006-04:00

THIS WEEK AT PST

"Rumplestiltskin" by Dream Tale Puppets

Saturday & Sunday | September 10 & 11 | 1pm & 3pm

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The Fall Fairytale Festival continues this weekend at PST with a magical performance of this exciting tale, re-told with colorful and delightfully humorous table-top puppets.

About this show: When a miller brags that his daughter can spin straw into gold, the King commands the girl to spin for him and help him pay the royal pile of bills. With no idea how to make this impossible task happen, the girl finds help from a funny looking Little Man — who only makes things worse!

Recommended for ages 4 & up.

About the performer: Dream Tale Puppets is a continuation of the Story and Puppet Time project which began at the Cape Cod Children’s Museum in April 2003.

Jacek Zuzanski has a Master of Art degree from The State Puppetry Institute in Wrocław, Poland, and The Ministry for Art and Culture’s Stage Directing Certificate. Jacek currently teaches acting and puppetry at the Cape Cod Conservatory and at the Falmouth Academy.

Norina Reif leads Toddler Story time at Falmouth Library and she is also a playgroup coordinator specializing in early childhood development. She also performs with Falmouth Theatre Guild and Cotuit Center for the Arts.

Fall NEW Membership Drive!

2011-09-02T21:39:00.006-04:00

MEMBERSHIP DRIVE AT PST

September * October * November

Beginning at our Season Kick Off Event this Labor Day weekend, everyone who becomes a NEW Puppet Showplace Theatre member at at least the Family Level (minimum donation of $100) will be entered for the chance to win a $25 gift card to Legal Seafoods!

Already a member? Don't worry! There is still a chance to win! Refer a friend to become a NEW member, and you will be entered to win too! There will be three drawings at the final day of each fall month. Five winners will be chosen each month, for a total of 15 winners!

There are many benefits to becoming a member of Puppet Showplace, but none so important as supporting the work that we do. Be part of the excitement... become a member today by calling the box office, 617-731-6400, ordering on-line, or best of all, by coming to the theatre to see a show!

As a non-profit theatre, the Puppet Showplace is only able to keep our doors open by the generous donations of our community partners like Chobee Hoy Associates, Legal Seafoods, and people like you! See you at the theatre!

Check out the show calendar for our Fall Fairytale Festival programming!

2011-2012 Season Kick Off at Puppet Showplace!

2011-08-27T18:58:00.012-04:00

September * October * November

Puppet Showplace Theatre is proud to announce our first annual Fall Fairytale Festival! It's our celebration of the "once upon a time" tales and the "long ago and far away" places that people have cherished for generations. Each week from September to November features a different fairytale (or two) ranging from the beloved classics to modern adaptations. View the full schedule online.

Fall Fairytale Kick Off Event, Labor Day Weekend!

September 3rd & 4th, 1pm & 3pm

Featuring: Pinocchio by National Marionette Theatre

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Join us on Saturday and Sunday of Labor Day Weekend for a special season kickoff event! We will feature a return performance of the spectacular Pinocchio by National Marionette Theatre--completely sold out in July!--and we'll have activities, refreshments, and a new puppet exhibit on display.

Thank you for an amazing summer season! It was a memorable one with with exciting premieres by Crabgrass Puppet Theatre and National Marionette Theatre, as well as returning favorites including Frogtown Mountain Puppeteers and Pumpernickel Puppets.

Special Note: Puppet Showplace Theatre will be CLOSED Sunday, August 29th through Friday, September 2nd to prepare for the upcoming 2011-2012 Season. Order your tickets for Pinocchio online!

Sir George and the Dragon by Pumpernickel Puppets

2011-08-22T21:54:00.004-04:00

THIS WEEK AT PST

"Sir George and the Dragon" by Pumpernickel Puppets

TWO PERFORMANCES EACH DAY!

Wed, Thurs & Sat | August 24, 25 & 27 | 1pm & 3pm

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The last week of summer programming at Puppet Showplace Theatre!

About this show: Join an adventurous princess as she journeys to Mystery Mountain to visit the Great Green Dragon. Along the way you’ll meet Zelda the babysitter, a silly bat, Sir George and his clumsy dog, and of course the lovable dragon. Will Sir George slay the dragon? Not to worry, everything ends happily in this fun show. Hand puppets. Recommended for ages 3 & up.

About the performer: For over thirty five years the Pumpernickel Puppets have captivated audiences of all ages. John McDonough and his puppets present over two hundred fifty shows a year at schools, libraries and private parties throughout the New England area. The Pumpernickel Puppets have had the honor of appearing at The Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC, The Center for Puppetry Arts, Atlanta, GA and the prestigious International Festival of Puppetry sponsored by the Jim Henson Foundation in New York.

See you at the theatre!

PST World Report: Roxie at the International Puppet Festival, Jerusalem!

2011-08-18T10:26:00.010-04:00

Dear PST Fans,

Greetings from Jerusalem! I am writing from the Train Theatre’s International Puppet Festival in the heart of Jerusalem. For 6 days straight I have been watching 7 or more puppet shows a day made by artists from all over the world. Many of the shows are without words which helps us international guests understand. Even when the shows are entirely in Hebrew, the puppeteers are such strong performers that the meaning of the stories still comes through. (Still, little by little, I am picking up words in Hebrew as I listen...)

The festival is located in both indoor and outdoor theatre venues across the Mishkenot neighborhood, just a short walk from the Old City where many holy sites (Dome of the Rock, the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher) are located. I am here as a guest of the Culture department of the Israeli Foreign Ministry. Along with other directors of International Puppet Festivals, we are here to see some of the most exciting puppet theatre that Israel has to offer.

According to the festival's Artistic Director, the "hero" of this year's festival is paper, so many of the shows use this as their primary design element. Several shows, including "Rain Bird" (depicted below) use origami or other paper folding traditions to tell their stories. Shadow and object theatre are also prominent.

I took one morning off from the festival to visit the Holon Puppet Center, located in the city of Holon near Tel Aviv. Here, I saw an amazing museum display of Israeli puppets and others from collections gathered from all over the world. Students at this school can specialize in different areas of puppetry, including building and performance, community art, education, and therapy. The theatre and classroom facilities were impressive, and I saw a group of campers thoroughly enjoying themselves in workshops, performances, and museum tours. I hope more American puppeteers have the chance to study abroad here!

Last night I left the Mishkenot neighborhood and traveled to the Mehane Yehuda market area. There, we went on a walking tour to see different performance installations, including one that took place in a synagogue. It was a wonderful way to see the city, and to appreciate the artistic and storytelling traditions that many of these puppeteers draw on for inspiration for their show.

Please stop by PST for more stories about the trip. Until then, Shalom!
Roxie

Dr. Doohickey's Monster Machine by Brad Shur

2011-08-13T13:10:00.015-04:00

THIS WEEK AT PST

"Dr. Doohickey's Monster Machine" by Brad Shur

TWO PERFORMANCES EACH DAY!

Wed & Thurs | Aug 17 & 18 | 10:30am & 1pm

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About this show: In this original story, Dr. Doohickey thinks that the world would be much more exciting if people were a little more like monsters, don’t you? Join the doctor and his assistant Reginald the Rabbit as they use music, machines and a little magic to bring funny monsters to life. Hand, rod and shadow puppets.

Recommended for ages 4 & up.

About the performer: Brad Shur, artist in residence at PST, has been professionally involved in puppetry for nearly 10 years. As a fan of all types of puppetry, Brad has built and performed with rod puppets, hand puppets, shadow puppets, larger-than-life costume puppets, Japanese bunraku puppets and marionettes. His shows are high energy blends where at least a few of these styles come together with storytelling, original scripts, and lots of audience participation.

Brad is also an experienced teacher and offers workshops and classes for all ages on site at PST or private bookings in addition to extended residencies. This programming includes shadow, hand, and rod puppets, or custom workshops. Click here for more info!

Brad Shur with workshop participant Tim Sullivan on August 6th, 2011 at the Summer Saturday Family Workshop: Junk Puppets! Participants learned how to turn recycled materials into puppets. Thank you to the Brookline Tab for hanging out with us for the day! Check out the photo gallery!

PUPPET INVASION NOW RECRUITING!

2011-08-10T21:28:00.021-04:00

PST's guerilla marketing team, PUPPET INVASION is now recruiting new members!

Help us spread the word about all of the awesomeness that happens at the Puppet Showplace Theatre! Volunteer to hand out marketing materials, drop off calendars and fliers at your local schools or libraries, or help us carry around a giant puppet at an our door event!

Through out the summer, libraries, toy stores and school fairs have been invaded by silly creatures and storybook characters brought to life by Puppet Showplace Theatre staff and summer interns. In July, customers at Henry Bear's Park in Brookline, Cambridge and Arlington learned about different kinds of puppetry. Just this week, the Brookline Public Library was invaded by two PST interns with a giant humming bird!

Want to be part of the Puppet Invasion Team? Contact Brenda Huggins, Community Engagement Coordinator at info@puppetshowplace.org, or 617-731-6400 x 201 to find out how!

Upcoming Puppet Invasion Events:

Boston GreenFest, 2011

Friday, August 19th at Noon to 5pm

Boston City Plaza

Junk Puppets Exhibit!

As part of our Summer Saturday Family Workshop Series at PST, youth, families and adults created puppets from recycled materials on August 6th. Examples of completed masterpieces will be on display at the Boston GreenFest with photos documenting their creative process! More info.

West End Children's Festival

Saturday, August 20th at 12:00pm to 4pm

Boston's Thoreau Path in Charles River Park

Since 2006, the West End Community Center has presented the West End Children's Festival as a way for families in the neighborhood to experience all of the cultural and educational opportunities Boston has to offer. Stop by the Puppet Showplace Theatre's table to learn about all of the exciting programming that PST has for youth, families and adults! And the best part? Make your very own mouth puppet to take home! More info!

A Woodland Cinderella, by Deborah Costine, Puppeteer!

2011-08-08T11:17:00.004-04:00

THIS WEEKEND AT PST

"A Woodland Cinderella" by Deborah Costine, Puppeteer!

Sat. | Aug 13 | 10:30 am & 1 pm

$8/Members, $10/General Admission

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About the Show: In this original version of Cinderella, the King of all Woodland Fairies wants his son to marry a fairy princess, but he knows that they are very hard to find. So the King hosts a great ball and commands all the young fairy maidens to attend. He hopes that the missing fern fairy princess will come. Will he find her?

Recommended for Ages 3 & up

About the Performer: In 2009 Debbie won the prestigious U.N.I.M.A. USA Citation for Excellence in Puppetry for this show, A Woodland Cinderella. In 2008 she was a recipient for the Northeast Region of Puppeteers of America's Artistic Achievement Award. She grew up in northern New Hampshire, graduated from Plymouth State College, and attended Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. She taught puppetry at Northeastern University, Boston, Mass., Worcester State College and Plymouth State. She has conducted workshops in voice and sculpting at regional and national puppetry festivals. Her character voices are heard on the Verizon website (superthinkers.com). Deborah is also the author of The Twig Family in the Oak Tree, a gentle nature story for young children that we also feature at Puppet Showplace.

Last Incubator of the Summer!

2011-08-06T17:46:00.009-04:00

INCUBATOR THIS WEEK AT PST!
TUES | AUG 9th | 7pm to 9pm

About Incubator: Every other Tuesday from 7pm - 9pm, PST hosts a "drop-in" session where emerging artists, veteran puppeteers, teachers, and puppet enthusiasts gather to discuss and develop creative ideas in a casual, informal environment.

Our last summer Incubator meeting, featuring...YOU!
Our last few Incubator sessions have featured the work of master puppeteers. Now, we're excited to hear from you! Come by Puppet Showplace Theatre on Tuesday August 9th with your materials, your puppets, and your imaginations. As a special treat, we'll introduce you to our brand new giant goldfish, Goldie!

Fall adult classes @ PST!
Oh man, we are so excited about our upcoming puppetry classes for adults! Furry Monsters 101, taught by Jon Little, begins in September, followed by Puppet Building 101 in October, taught by Artist in Residence Brad Shur. Our goal is to have classes offered continually throughout the year, so keep checking out our current offerings in the Adult Workshops section of our website!

FURRY MONSTERS 101!

Four Thursday Evenings
September 22 - October 13,
7PM - 9PM
Ages 16 and up-$150
Register Today!

Taught by Jonathan Little, PST Slam EmceeRegister onlineor call our box office at (617) 731-6400.This class will focus on the proper manipulation of Muppet-style hand and rod puppets regularly featured on Sesame Street, The Muppet Show, and Avenue Q. Professional puppeteers know how to make these characters appear as living, breathing beings with their own thoughts, desires, and motivations. After learning the basics of proper body position, breathing, lip-synch, and focus, your hand will start to have a mind of its own. The class will also cover the following essentials: characterization, rhythm and timing, storytelling, puppet assisting, working in puppet teams, working with props, creating a film, improv and comedy, television monitor techniques, and puppet/actor interactions. Students will also produce an original sketch of their own from beginning to end which will be showcased on Saturday 10/15 @ 8:00 pm. In-class practice puppets and camera equipment will be provided by the instructor. This is an ideal class for actors, comedians, die-hard Muppet fans, dancers, animators, or anyone interested in learning puppetry. Class size is limited: enroll today!

Sleeping Beauty by Tanglewood Marionettes

2011-08-06T17:34:00.005-04:00

THIS WEEK AT PST

"Sleeping Beauty" by Tanglewood Marionettes

TWO PERFORMANCES EACH DAY!

Wed & Thurs | August 10th & 11th| 10:30am & 1pm

Buy Tickets

About the show: A classic tale which appeals to children of all ages, "Sleeping Beauty" begins in King Felix’s great hall for the christening of Princess Aurora. The party goes awry when the wicked witch arrives and curses Princess Aurora. Will the curse come true? Will someone with a “true heart” appear? You will know when you see Tanglewood Marionettes’ presentation of this best-loved tale.

In this retelling, a painted story book opens to reveal each scene. Beautifully hand-crafted marionettes are brought to life by a master puppeteer as the dramatic events unfold.

Recommended for ages 4 & up

About the performer: Founded in 1993 by Anne Ware and Peter Schaefer, Tanglewood Marionettes is a nationally touring marionette theater based in New England. Their repertoire consists primarily of classic tales performed by skilled puppeteers who have spent many years perfecting their art. They specialize in school assembly programs and tour throughout the United States. Check out their website for more info!

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Ahoy there, Frogtown Mountain Puppeteers!

2011-08-01T22:27:00.002-04:00

This week at Puppet Showplace, we have an amazing lineup in store for you! On Wednesday and Thursday at 10:30 and 1:00, family favorite performers Frogtown Mountain Puppeteers are heading down to Boston to perform their hilarious show "Everybody Loves Pirates." The show is almost sold out, so if you want to get a ticket or get added to the waiting list please call the box office at 617-731-6400.

With Frogtown, we celebrate consecutive weeks of hosting puppetry families at our theatre. Last week the Syrotiaks of National Marionette had a father, sons, and daughter-in-law connection; this week, we welcome the Torbeck family: three siblings who banded together to make great art.

If you can't make it in to see Frogtown but still need your weekly puppet fix, never fear! This weekend our brilliant Artist in Residence Brad Shur will lead creative participants in a hands on workshop called "JUNK PUPPETS: A Recycled Materials Building Extravaganza." This is our LAST mixed age family workshop for the summer. Find out more and sign up today!

PUPPET SHOWPLACE SLAM: Puppets for Adults!

2011-07-19T10:36:00.012-04:00

THIS SATURDAY AT PST

Puppet Showplace Slam!

Saturday | July 23rd | 8 pm

$13/member or student, $15/general admission

Puppet Slam tickets always sell out, so BUY TICKETS HERE! or call the Box Office at 617-731-6400

About the Show: A puppet slam is an evening of short, varied, theatrical mini-plays for adults that use (or sometimes abuse) puppets for all or part of the drama. Each piece is performed by a different artist or artists, and the content can be wide-ranging; some are elegant or poignant, others are satiric, irreverent, or humorous, and still others can be passionate, political, or spiritual in nature. The performers range from the seasoned professional to the nascent puppeteer, and often include poets, musicians, dancers, mimes, actors, and other sundry affiliated artists.

Featured Performers:

Lorraine Gilman

Thomas Getchell

Woellert & Clark

Little's Creatures

....and MORE!

Confessions of a Slam Instigator

by Carl Weiting

Why Do Adults Need to See Live Puppet Shows?

Because the Internet can't heckle you back.

Because it's fun to see the soul of an old lady in a tomato.

Because if you watch talking furniture onstage it's less likely you will start talking to your own furniture.

Because the revolution is never over. Because it's fun to watch adults in a state of arrested development.

Because it's healthy to arrest your development for short periods of time.

Because nothing out of Hollywood can actually reach out and touch you.

Because old memories need to be kept young and new memories need to be made.

Because where else can you see 4,083 uses for felt & the common coat hanger.

Because even though you can't see the puppeteer's hands, you know what they are doing with them.

Because the world has too many televisions and not enough storytellers.

Because it's nice to know your trash is being put to good use.

Because instead of dumbing down, puppets smarten up their audience.

Because if you can't join 'em, beat 'em with a stick (says Mr. Punch).

Because the news doesn't run enough happy stories.

Because most puppets are actually smarter than most politicians.

Because the worries of the world never stop, but you can put them on hold till the end of the show.

Because why should kids have all the fun.

The next Slam is September 17th, but that's a long way off so come in and see what you think!

National Marionette Theatre Premieres "Pinocchio"

2011-07-18T14:17:00.014-04:00

THIS WEEK AT PST

PREMIERE! "Pinocchio" by National Marrionette Theatre

Wed, Thurs & Sat | July 27, 28 & 30 | 10:30am & 1:00pm

Show: Wed, Thurs, & Sat | July 27, 28 & 30 | 10:30 am & 1 pm

$8/Members, $10/General Admission

About the Show: Carlo Collodi's epic about a puppet who wants to become a real boy is a classic example of storytelling at its best. Our adaptation is a faithful re-telling of this childhood favorite. Follow Pinocchio as he goes on a series of adventures and discovers that only by being truthful, selfless and kind to others will he realize his dream of becoming a real live boy.

Recommended for Ages 4 & up. Approx. 1 hr.

About the Performers: National Marionette Theatre is one of the oldest continually-running marionette theatres in the United States. Founded in 1967 by artistic director David A. Syrotiak, this award-winning company has been entertaining and amazing audiences around the world with their imaginative productions for over forty years. Each year this remarkable company travels some forty-five thousand miles across the USA perfoming for many different types of venues from elementary schools and theaters, to libraries, summer camps and outdoor fairs and festivals. Noted for their amazing manipulation technique and fully staged productions, National Marionette Theatre is committed to bringing audiences the very best in family entertainment.

BUY SHOW TICKETS!

Special Workshop:

Inside Gepetto’s Workshop: Marionette Construction and Design

Sat. July 30th, 11:30 am to 12:30 pm

$5/person | Recommended for ages 5 & up

Building puppets for a show like "Pinocchio" requires great skill and a keen eye for detail. Kids and adults can learn more about the materials and methods used to make marionettes in this construction demonstration by NMT's master puppeteers. From Gepetto's workshop to the Syrotiak Family Studio, see how this great tradition has survived for centuries! Recommended for ages 5 and up.

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Raccoon Tales by Brad Shur

2011-07-18T13:51:00.015-04:00

THIS WEEK AT PST

"Raccoon Tales" by Brad Shur

Weds, Thurs, & Sat | July 20, 21, & 23 | 10:30 am & 1 pm

$8/Members, $10/General Admission

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About the show: The animals in the forest are always getting into trouble playing tricks on each other. Will they learn their lessons? The show includes three humorous tails inspired by the Native American tales of the Seneca Tribe: How the Fox and the Raccoon Trick EachOther; Why the Blue Jay is Blue and the Gray Wolf Isn't; and, Why the Bear has a Stumpy Tail.

Hand Puppets, Recommended for ages 4 +

About the performer: Brad Shur, artist in residence at PST, has been professionally involved in puppetry for nearly 10 years. As a fan of all types of puppetry, Brad has built and performed with rod puppets, hand puppets, shadow puppets, larger-than-life costume puppets, Japanese bunraku puppets and marionettes. His shows are high energy blends where at least a few of these styles come together with storytelling, original scripts, and lots of audience participation.

You can catch Brad at least twice monthly at Puppet Showplace Theatre, performing any one of six shows in his repertoire: "Raccoon Tales," "Here Come the Clowns," "The Singing Turtle," "Dr. Doohickey's Monster Machine," "The Carrot Salesman," and his newest production "The Magic Soup and Other Tales."

Brad is also an experienced teacher and offers workshops and classes for all ages on site at PST or private bookings in addition to extended residencies. This programming includes shadow, hand, and rod puppets, or custom workshops. Click here for more info!

(Brad Shur and participants from Summer Saturday Workshop Series, July 2011)

Crabgrass Puppet Theatre at INCUBATOR This Week!

2011-07-11T18:19:00.021-04:00

THIS TUESDAY AT PST

Incubator: Featuring

Crabgrass Puppet Theatre

TUES | JULY 12 | 7pm to 9pm

About Incubator at PST: Every other Tuesday from 7pm - 9pm, PST hosts a "drop-in" session where emerging artists, veteran puppeteers, teachers, and puppet enthusiasts gather to discuss and develop creative ideas in a casual, informal environment. It's a place where knowledge is shared, constructive critique is the norm, and collaborations are born. No matter where your interests lie, from traditional theatre to the avant garde, you're welcome at these sessions.

A $5 donation is suggested to cover costs, but no one is turned away. For more information, call 617.731.6400, or email us at artistic@puppetshowplace.org with "incubator" in the subject.

Incubator @ PST, Tuesday July 12th at 7:00 pm - Featuring Crabgrass Puppet Theatre!

Join us Tuesday night for a inspiring and informative Incubator session featuring special guests Bonny Hall and Jamie Keithline from Crabgrass Puppet Theatre. Learn how this duo has worked together to produce award-winning shows for over 30 years, including one of their most recent spectacles, Haiku, Hip Hop, and Hotdogs, showing at PST this week!

BUY TICKETS to performances, July 13th, 14th & 16th!

NEXT Incubator, Tuesday July 26th at 7:00 pm - Featuring National Marionette Theatre! Stay tuned for more information about our next Incubator featuring our favorite family of master marionettists from National Marionette Theatre talking about the development of their newest show, Pinocchio.

BUY TICKETS to performances, July 27th, 28th, 30th!

UPCOMING INCUBATORS

Aug 09 - Seeking featured artist, e-mail artistic@puppetshowplace.org

Aug 23- Seeking featured artist, e-mail artistic@puppetshowplace.org

Performances and Workshop by Crabgrass Puppet Theatre

2011-07-11T16:00:00.000-04:00

THIS WEEK AT PST

"Haiku, HipHop & Hotdogs" by Crabgrass Puppet Theatre

TWO PERFORMANCES EACH DAY!

Wed, Thurs, & Sat | July 13, 14 & 16 | 10:30am & 1pm

$8/Members, $10/General Admission

Family Puppet Workshop: Crabgrass Drops the Curtain!

Sat | July 16 | 11:30am to 12:30pm

$3/Members, $5/General Admission

About the show: Haiku, HipHop and Hotdogs weaves favorite children’s poems into a seamless tapestry of art and entertainment for all audiences. View the natural world through a child’s eye in “Every Time I Climb a Tree!” Imagine a symphony composed entirely by the swimming of “The Goldfish!” Thrill to the exploits of aerodynamic sausages in “Fearless Flying Hotdogs!” Dance with the “Funky Snowman!” “Keep a Poem in Your Pocket” and – above all – “Do Not Approach an Emu!” The poems of Jack Prelutsky, Beatrice Schenk de Regniers, David McCord, Geoff Hewitt and others are featured in this exciting new creation from the award-winning Crabgrass Puppet Theatre.

Recommended for ages 4 & up.

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Thank you for haiku

I really like your monsters

Your show was so cool

- Fifth Grader, Comly School in Philadelphia

About the workshop: (Sat. July 16th at 11:30am) Learn how an innocent piece of cloth can become a terrifying bunch of spinach! See how a snowman can assemble itself on stage - and then dance! This curtains-off exposé provides a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how the members of Crabgrass Puppet Theatre create their characters and perform their unique brand of puppetry.

Crabgrass drops the curtain and provides a below-the-playboard demonstration of several of the pieces in "Haiku, HipHop and Hotdogs," letting audience members in on what has to happen out of view of the audience to create the magic on stage.

Part demonstration, part hands-on participation, this workshop will expand your puppetry palette and open your eyes to the wide range of puppet possibilities.

BUY TICKETS!

Giant Puppets for EVERYONE!!!

2011-07-09T12:17:00.014-04:00

BIG NEWS ABOUT GIANT PUPPET CLASS:

Think Big! Giant Puppet Construction and Performance Class is now open for drop-in and adult enrollment!

DATES: July 18 - July 22 (Monday through Friday)

TIME: 3:30 to 5:30 pm
Public performance Saturday, July 23 at 8:00 pm
Only $125 per participant!

About the class: Join us in July for a week of bringing giants to life! Students will learn how to dream big and work with others to make their visions a reality. Participants will learn how to create huge characters using cardboard and other simple materials, and fuse it all together with the magic of paper mache. We'll cover every stage of building a giant puppet from design to painting.It all culminates in

a performance featuring our creations at the July Puppet Slam, 8:00 pm on July 23rd!

About the instructor: Brad Shur is our current Artist In Residence. He is a graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design and has been performing professionally for over ten years, beginning with nationally touring puppet companies such as Big Nazo and Wood and Strings Theater and more recently performing his own shows. He has built puppets for Dollywood and American Idol, as well as many others. This will be his first year offering this course at Puppet Showplace Theatre.

Want to see Brad in action in the classroom? Click here for photos from his last workshop at the Puppet Showplace, thanks to www.brookline.patch.com!

Registration: Rather pay by check? You can register by sending a check with your name, contact information, and a few sentences about your child's puppetry, arts, or performance background to:

Puppet Showplace Theatre
Attn: Think Big!
32 Station Street,
Brookline MA 02445

Questions? Contact the theatre at 617-731-6400 or e-mail Instructor Brad Shur at bshur@puppetshowplace.org.

Egyptian Deities Decorate the PST Lobby!

2011-07-03T21:40:00.013-04:00

NEW LOBBY DISPLAY AT PST!

Thoth and Horus, mechanical moving sculptures created by Eric Bornstein of Behind the Mask Studio in Somerville MA now adorn the Puppet Showplace Lobby! They were last seen at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, but have been rescued from storage to join the butterfly and hummingbirds, also designed by Eric Bornstein, currently on display that the theatre. The Puppet Showplace will be the home of these two Egyptian Deities for the remainder of the summer. Take a look for yourself before you see one of our many exciting new shows this month, or stop by anytime Tuesday through Saturday, 10am to 4pm when the Box Office and Puppet Store are open.

About the Artist: Eric BornsteinEric has studied with masters Agung Suardana in Bali, and Donato Sartori in Italy. He received his MLA in Fine Arts along with the Thomas Small prize from Harvard University. His masks have appeared most recently in the 31st Cambridge River Festival, Contemporary Theater of Boston’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Performance Lab’s Le Cabaret Grimm, Underground Railway Theater’s Life of Galileo, and the Harvard Yiddish Players’ Shulamis.

Over the last 30 years Eric’s masked characters have appeared in a variety of venues. They were a highlight of Boston’s First Night celebration for 15 years. His masks have also appeared at the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, the Isabella Stewart Gardener Museum, the Fuller Craft Museum, the Kennedy Library/Museum, the Boston Lyric Opera, the Boston Ballet, the Society of Arts & Crafts (Newbury Street), The Peabody/Essex Museum, King Richard's Faire, and Revels. He currently teaches classes in making and performing masks, and offers performances and residencies to schools throughout the state through Young Audiences of Massachusetts. Behind the Mask Studio was founded by Eric Bornstein in 1990.

More new displays coming soon this summer at Puppet Showplace Theatre!

Crabgrass Puppet Theatre Premieres "Smart & Small Conquers All"

2011-07-03T16:31:00.006-04:00

THIS WEEK AT PST
"Smart & Small Conquers All" by Crabgrass Puppet Theatre

TWO PERFORMANCES EACH DAY!
Wed, Thurs & Sat | July 6, 7 & 9 | 10:30am & 1pm

BUY TICKETS

About this show: With beautiful puppets and their signature hilarious style, the award-winning Crabgrass Puppet Theatre presents for the first time at the Puppet Showplace Theatre this collection of tales from Africa, Asia and Europe that will inspire and enthrall children of all sizes. Can a tortoise win a tug of war with a mighty elephant? Can a tiny mouse help an enormous lion? Can a jackal outwit a terrifying tiger twice his size? Find out as Crabgrass Puppet Theatre travels around the globe to tell stories that show even the small and weak can have a big impact on the world. More about these stories:

Tug of War
From West Africa comes a story of arrogance and humility. The tortoise uses his intelligence to outsmart the elephant and the hippopotamus and show that he can pull his own weight – and theirs as well!

The Tiger, the Brahman and the Jackal
An Indian tale about trust and the importance of keeping your word. The clever jackal teaches the tiger a lesson in honesty and saves the Brahman’s life along the way.

The Lion and the Mouse
Aesop’s classic fable of friendship. The lion spares the mouse and in return the mouse saves the lion from the hunters. Even those small in stature can do great deeds.

About the performer: CRABGRASS PUPPET THEATRE is an award-winning touring puppet theatre founded in San Francisco in 1982 by Jamie Keithline and Bonny Hall. They have since delighted audiences across the nation with their whimsical humor and puppetry. Now residents of Halifax, Vermont, they continue to tour throughout the U.S., performing in schools, museums and theaters. In 2010, Irish puppeteer and actor (and UConn graduate) Fergus Walsh joined the company just in time to help create Haiku, HipHop and Hotdogs - Poetry Comes Alive, the newest show from Crabgrass. Crabgrass Puppet Theatre has twice been awarded the prestigious Citation of Excellence from the American Center of the Union Internationale de la Marionette (UNIMA-USA), the highest honor in American puppetry, in 2001 and again in 2005.

In 2008, Bonny Hall received a Commendation for Design in the Puppet Theatre from the Arlyn Award Foundation. They have given many thousands of performances in schools, libraries, museums, and arts festivals, and have performed at over two dozen regional, national and international puppetry festivals. Crabgrass Puppet Theatre's performing venues have included the World Trade Center, the Tribeca Performing Arts Center, the Philadelphia Museum, Paper Mill Playhouse, the North Carolina Museum, the New York State Museum, the Smithsonian Institution, the California Academy of Sciences, the Detroit Institute for the Arts, and hundreds of schools, museums, and theaters across the country. Crabgrass Puppet Theatre continues to perform more than 200 shows each year, reaching over 100,000 people throughout the US. Check out their website to learn more.

"The stage was lovely - the puppets beautiful - it was excellent!"
. . . Mariposa Museum, Peterborough NH
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Summer Saturday Family Workshop July 2nd!

2011-07-01T11:56:00.007-04:00

THIS 4th of JULY WEEKEND!
Summer Saturday Family Workshop:
NEW! Our "Summer Saturday" family workshop series takes place on the first Saturday of each summer month (June, July, and August). These are participatory workshops where adults and children work together to build and perform with puppets. Space for these workshops is limited, so pre-registration is STRONGLY encouraged. Call the box office at 617-731-6400 today to reserve your space! Cost: $15/adult, $10/child (Member price $13/adult, $8/child).

Big Stories: Paul Bunyan & Participatory Puppet Theater

Sat | July 2 | 10:30am to 12:30pm
About this workshop: Did you ever wonder how puppeteers tell such big stories with such small characters? Celebrate American Independence by bringing to life the classic American Folk Tale, Paul Bunyan! Families will learn how puppeteers use movement and sound to bring multiple styles of puppets to life. All participants will get to practice manipulation exercises with simple puppets provided by the instructor. Then, together we will put on a show!

About the artist: Brad Shur has been professionally involved in puppetry for over 10 years. He began as a performer with the Providence puppet and mask company Big Nazo while studying ﬁlm and animation at the Rhode Island School of Design. He has worked in various capacities with Wood & Strings Theatre (Tennessee), and Vermont PuppetTree, and as a builder has designed and fabricated puppets for American Idol, Dollywood, and other theaters and performers from Austin, Texas to Boston, Massachusetts. All of the puppets Brad uses in his performances come from his workshop, where he builds them by hand from wood, paper, plastic, foam and fabric. He's built and performed with rod puppets, hand puppets, shadow puppets, larger-than-life costume puppets, Japanese bunraku puppets and marionettes. His shows are high energy blends where at least a few of these styles come together with storytelling, original scripts, and lots of audience participation.

You can catch Brad at least twice monthly at Puppet Showplace Theatre, performing any one of six shows in his repertoire: "Raccoon Tales," "Here Come the Clowns," "The Singing Turtle," "Dr. Doohickey's Monster Machine," "The Carrot Salesman," and his newest production "The Magic Soup and Other Tales." His shows are high energy blends where at least a few of these styles come together with storytelling, original scripts, and lots of audience participation.

"Brad Shur is a fabulous puppeteer as well as an inspiring teacher."

-Review on Ticketleap.com

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The Twig Family by Deborah Costine, Puppeteer!

2011-06-28T21:36:00.000-04:00

THIS WEEK AT PST!
The Twig Family by Deborah Costine, Puppeteer!

Wed & Thurs | JUN 29 & 30 | 10:30AM & 1:00PM

About this show: The Twig Family is an original story about a family living in harmony with nature. Inspired by The Oak Tree by Gordon Morrison, this show teaches lessons about sharing, confronting fears, and living simply, while exploring and enjoying trees and nature.

Recommended for ages 3 & up.

About the performer: Debbie grew up in northern New Hampshire, graduated from Plymouth State College, and attended Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. She taught puppetry at Northeastern University, Boston, Mass., Worcester State College and Plymouth State. She has conducted workshops in voice and sculpting at regional and national puppetry festivals. Her character voices are heard on the Verizon website (superthinkers.com). Deborah is the author of The Twig Family in the Oak Tree, a gentle nature story for young children. In 2008 she was a recipient for the Northeast Region of Puppeteers of America's Artistic Achievement Award. In 2009 she won the prestigious U.N.I.M.A. USA Citation for Excellence in Puppetry for her show, A Woodland Cinderella.

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TWO INCUBATOR SESSIONS THIS WEEK!

2011-06-26T10:43:00.011-04:00

THIS WEEK AT PST

Programming for adults : Two Incubator Sessions!

TUES | JUN 28th | 7:00pm

Storyboard presentation

THURS | JUN 30th | 7:00pm

FREE Artist Talk & Reception

About Incubator at PST: Every other Tuesday from 7pm - 9pm, PST hosts a "drop-in" session where emerging artists, veteran puppeteers, teachers, and puppet enthusiasts gather to discuss and develop creative ideas in a casual, informal environment. See our list of upcoming meetings below. Here artists of all media and genres, experienced or not, can experiment with new puppetry ideas, materials and styles. It's a place where knowledge is shared, constructive critique is the norm, and collaborations are born. No matter where your interests lie, from traditional theatre to the avant garde, you're welcome at these sessions. Similar workshops have developed and flourished in places like Atlanta and New York, adding breadth and richness to the puppetry of those cities, and now the same thing is happening here!

Join us in this exciting project! A $5 donation is suggested to cover costs, but no one is turned away. For more information, call 617.731.6400, or email us at artistic@puppetshowplace.org with "incubator" in the subject.

Incubator @ PST, Tuesday June 28th at 7:00pm - Storyboard presentation!
Due to popular demand, Incubator this week will focus on peer reviewing storyboards and treatments submitted by YOU for puppet shows and puppet films in progress. All attendees will have a chance to present on their work at this critical phase of development. For some basic ideas about storyboarding visit here. We can't wait to hear your ideas! Incubator, as always, is free with a suggested $5 donation.

FREE Artist Talk and Reception @ PST, Thursday June 30th at 7:00pm
Join us on Thursday at 7:00 pm for a FREE artist talk with internationally acclaimed puppeteer, director, and fringe theatre artist Naomi Yoeli. Learn about her award-winning productions for children and adults which combine object theatre, story telling, movement, and religious ritual. Refreshments will be served! More information.

Upcoming Incubator Meetings

June 28 - Puppet Storyboard Presentations--bring your live or video storyboards for feedback!
June 30 - SPECIAL EVENT: Artist Talk with guest puppeteer Naomi Yoeli. 7:00, refreshments served!
July 12 - Featuring special guests Crabgrass Puppet Theatre
July 26 - Featuring special guests National Marionette Theatre
Aug 09 - Seeking featured artist, e-mail artistic@puppetshowplace.org
Aug 23- Seeking featured artist, e-mail artistic@puppetshowplace.org

"Here Come the Clowns!" by Brad Shur

2011-06-18T17:46:00.003-04:00

THIS WEEK AT PST

"Here Come the Clowns" by Brad Shur

JUN | Wed, Thurs & Sat | 10:30am & 1pm

About this show: With a beep, a honk, and a snap, happy clowns caper out of a tiny car to perform humorous vignettes from around the world. Dusty rolls out the red carpet, Pierrot plays on his hobby horse, and Zany rows, rows, rows his boat towards a “big surprise”! Join us for laughter and fun in this wonderful show! Hand puppets.

About this performer: Brad Shur has been professionally involved in puppetry for over 10 years. He began as a performer with the Providence puppet and mask company Big Nazo while studying ﬁlm and animation at the Rhode Island School of Design. He has worked in various capacities with Wood & Strings Theatre (Tennessee), and Vermont PuppetTree, and as a builder has designed and fabricated puppets for American Idol, Dollywood, and other theaters and performers from Austin, Texas to Boston, Massachusetts. All of the puppets Brad uses in his performances come from his workshop, where he builds them by hand from wood, paper, plastic, foam and fabric. He's built and performed with rod puppets, hand puppets, shadow puppets, larger-than-life costume puppets, Japanese bunraku puppets and marionettes. His shows are high energy blends where at least a few of these styles come together with storytelling, original scripts, and lots of audience participation.

You can catch Brad at least twice monthly at Puppet Showplace Theatre, performing any one of six shows in his repertoire: "Raccoon Tales," "Here Come the Clowns," "The Singing Turtle," "Dr. Doohickey's Monster Machine," "The Carrot Salesman," and his newest production "The Magic Soup and Other Tales." His shows are high energy blends where at least a few of these styles come together with storytelling, original scripts, and lots of audience participation.

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"Pirates & Tales of Sea" by Romper Rhythm & Puppets

2011-06-15T17:42:00.004-04:00

THIS WEEKEND AT PST

"Pirates & Tales of the Sea" by Romper Rhythm & Puppets

Sat | June 18th | 10:30am & 1pm

About this show: Pirate Long John Silver and his parrot, Flint find a sea chest full of stories, “How the Whale Got His Throat”, “A Little Mermaid”, and “Ocean Born Mary”. Tales are told with a twist, silly and not scary, using a combination of hand and shadow puppets. The story of “Ocean Born Mary”, the NH pirate legend, is told with hand puppets (pictured), lots of laughs and audience participation and yo ho ho!

About this performer: Diane Kordas has been performing music for children and families since 1992, and puppet shows since 1998. As a registered nurse and later as a mom she started using music and puppets to entertain and educate her patients, friends and family. She learned how to design and sew her own dolls and puppets with instruction from her mother, and enjoys making her own puppet characters for her shows. Today, her classic and original stories with puppets, music, humor and audience participation are enjoyed by children and families at libraries, schools, outdoor events, parties, daycares and preschools throughout New England.

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"The Case of the Missing Woodpile" by Gerwick Puppets

2011-06-12T16:17:00.003-04:00

THIS WEEK AT PST

"The Case of the Missing Woodpile" by Gerwick Puppets

TWO PERFORMANCES EACH DAY!

Wed & Thurs | June 15 & 16 | 10:30am & 1:00pm

About this show: Marylou and Bruce star in this musical mystery. They’re busy with all sorts of summer activities, when suddenly the pile of wood for a chicken coop they want to build disappears! The audience joins the puppets to solve the mystery! With original music. "Summertime is what you make it, it can be oodles of fun", sings Marylou and her friend Bruce in this summertime frolic. Hand puppets. Check out a sneak-peek preview!

About the performer: Len grew up doing puppet shows. From junior high through college he took hisportable theater by subway to all five boroughs of New York City. He graduated from Pratt Institute, studied at Columbia University, the University of Vienna (Austria) and received a Masters in Art History from the University of Toronto, Ontario. He has been passionate about painting, history, classical music and dance throughout his life. He was and art teacher at Holliston High School in Mass. for nine years before entering puppetry full time. He is the recipient of the Northeast Region of Puppeteers of America's Artistic Achievement Award in 2008. He has been on the board of Puppeteers of America as chair of its Endowment Committee and is currently on the board of The Puppet Showplace in Brookline, Mass. Along with puppetry, he is dedicated to his painting where his work has been shown in galleries in Massachusetts.

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Hansel & Gretel by Wayne Martin Puppets

2011-06-05T12:33:00.003-04:00

NEW SUMMER HOURS!
All shows Wed, Thurs & Sat | 10:30am & 1pm

THIS WEEK AT PST
"Hansel & Gretel" by Wayne Martin Puppets
JUN 8, 9 & 11 | 10:30am & 1pm

About the show: The classic Brothers Grimm fairytale is magically presented utilizing gorgeous hand, rod, string and shadow puppetry in this colorful musical production. Hansel, Gretel and of course the wicked old witch are all "on hand" along with a few surprise guests, to bring this beloved story to life for you at the Puppet Showplace Theater. This production will be followed by a selection of variety marionette vignettes from the award winning puppeteer's "Martin's Magical, Musical Revue."

About the performer: Wayne Martin began his interest in puppetry as a hobby at the tender age of three and a half. By age eight, he had formed his own company, The Wayne Martin Puppets and turned full-time professional.

At the top of his profession for nearly forty years now, Wayne’s credits include guest appearances with Symphony Orchestras and work as principal manipulator for industry greats, the Heiken Puppets, Sid and Marty Krofft Productions and Jim Henson’s Muppets, among others.

Martin has been featured in numerous award winning television programs and commercials. These include critically acclaimed educational and training films and his very own television series and specials that have earned him two Emmy Award nominations.

Wayne Martin’s first love remains live performance. He has toured Canada, Europe and Australia and presents his one-man variety revue hundreds of times each year across the United States. His unique style of showmanship has been instrumental in broadening the appeal of the puppet show in this country and it's acceptance as true theatre art enjoyed by adults and children alike. Having designed and built over two thousand puppets to date, Martin's act has appeared with such established artists as Bob Hope, Dolly Parton, The 5th Dimension and The Temptations. More info.

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Playing with Light: the magical art of shadow puppetry

2011-06-02T12:16:00.005-04:00

THIS SATURDAY AT PST

Playing with Light: the magical art of shadow puppetry

Family workshop, taught by Brad Shur

Sat | June 4 | 10:30am to 12:30pm

NEW! Our "Summer Saturday" family workshop series kicks off this Saturday, and will take place on the first Saturday of each summer month (June, July, and August). These are participatory workshops where adults and children work together to build and perform with puppets. Space for these workshops is limited, so pre-registration is STRONGLY encouraged. Call the box office at 617-731-6400 today to reserve your space! Cost: $15/adult, $10/child (Member price $13/adult, $8/child).

About this workshop: Shadow puppetry is a fun, inexpensive way for families to create magical worlds and tell stories together. In this workshop, participants will see live and video demonstrations of the centuries-old history of shadow puppets and learn about their amazing variety across cultures. Then, everyone will make their own shadow puppets and learn the basic techniques of bringing them to life. This is a hands-on workshop, where everyone will have a chance to be a shadow puppeteer!

You can catch Brad at least twice monthly at Puppet Showplace Theatre, performing any one of six shows in his repertoire: "Raccoon Tales," "Here Come the Clowns," "The Singing Turtle," "Dr. Doohickey's Monster Machine," "The Carrot Salesman," and his newest production "The Magic Soup and Other Tales." His shows are high energy blends where at least a few of these styles come together with storytelling, original scripts, and lots of audience participation.

"Brad Shur is a fabulous puppeteer as well as an inspiring teacher. I'm so delighted to be taking (my daughter) to this."

-Review on Ticketleap.com

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Summer Starts June 1st at PST

2011-05-29T16:05:00.003-04:00

THIS SUMMER AT PST
New Schedule! Show times for the months of June, July, and August:
Wednesday, Thursdays, and Saturdays 10:30am and 1:00pm
Check out the calendar!

SUMMER SATURDAY WORKSHOPS

Playing With Light: The Magical Art Of Shadow Puppetry
June 4th 10:30-12:30

Big Stories: Paul Bunyan and Participatory Puppet Theater
July 2nd 10:30-12:30

Junk Puppets! A Hands-On Recycled Materials Puppet Building Extravaganza
August 6th 10:30-12:30
Make a reservation.

THIS WEEK
"Turtle's New Home" by Deborah Costine
June 1 & 2 | Wed & Thurs | 10:30 am & 1pm

About This Show: Blanding is an endangered turtle in search of a new habitat. Each spring she leaves her wetland and travels to a nearby sandy hill where she lays her eggs. When a new road is ... built between the wetland and the hill, what will she do? With the help from her friend Castor the Beaver she may just be able to fix her problems!

About the Performer: When Debbie was 10 years old, she made her first puppet. She had no idea how to go about it, but she made a paper mache puppet which sits in her puppet studio today!
Debbie designs and performs shows for young audiences, and was recently awarded an UNIMA Citation of Excellence for her show “Cinderella, A Woodland Fairy Princess”. The UNIMA Citation of Excellence is the highest honor in American puppetry.
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