Reverse Cascade

Red Ball Theater's production was incredibly moving. Fabric and a ball was used to create a puppet representing a circus performer. Other objects were juggled, ridden as a unicycle, and used as hula hoops. Then a tragic disease struck. Hands grabbed the fabric and disabled the puppet as multiple schlerosis attacked different limbs. The story is about this person's struggle and determination to continue to find and create ways to continue to live to the fullest. As the disease progressed and she needed a wheelchair (made with the same rings she had hooped with). She still found new ways to incorporate her art.. I was moved to tears with the power, insight and sensitivity of this performance. It deserved a standing ovation; ironically, because I was so deeply moved, I was unable to stand at the end...

Robin's Eye View

Love Birds

Robin's eye view

Tuesday we experienced an evening at the Jorgensen with a film documenting Caroll Spinney career and biography. Caroll and Debbie were on stage after the film with Oscar the Grouch to answer questions and share life experiences. Cheryl Henson lead out the evening "Celebrating Jim Henson and the Art of Puppetry" as she spun a more extensive tale of her father and mother's career and family. She told of how her dad had gone abroad to see first hand how puppeteers around the world performed with puppets. His interest in film preceded his interest in puppetry. Upon his return he asked Jane to marry him and a career in television is where life took them. Children came along and were swept along with them in the puppet world. Cheryl and Heather are joining us here at the festival. Wonderful to get such sensitive insight into the interweaving of Jim, Jane, Caroll and Debbie's personal feelings as well as professional connections. Wondrous evening!

Fred Thompson - Renaissance Man with Marionettes

Figuring it out...Marilyn O'Connor Miller

Fred Thompson is one of those rare professionals who is always worth watching and listening to.  His work projects the time and efforts spent over the years in theatre and puppetry.  Fred cares about people and the power that puppets have to carry a message.  His attention to detail through presentation can be translated to all theater arts...he makes amazing connections!

Figuring it out