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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- For what kinds of events have you performed?
- Are your shows educational?
- What is the difference between a story show and a variety show?
- How many people do you perform for at one time?
- How long are your shows?
- To what ages do your shows appeal?
- How much do you charge?
- Can you do a show outdoors?
- Do you perform at birthday parties?
- Do you come into people's homes?
- Do you bring a gift for the birthday child?
- How much room do you need?
- What do you need from me?
- How much time do you need to set up?
- How do I pay you?
- Do you provide references?
For what kinds of events have you performed?
I've performed for schools, libraries, state fairs, festivals, museums, television, preschools, child care centers, birthday parties, church family nights, shopping malls, company picnics, lodges, clubs, block parties, and puppetry festivals--in short, the many venues enriched by a terrific puppet show!
Back to TopAre your shows educational?
Absolutely! Puppetry is a unique art form encompassing theatre, art, music, movement, language, and literature. Additionally, social skills get a boost as the children observe their teachers' "theatre manners," enjoy audience participation, laugh, and applaud appropriately. Schools receive specially prepared teachers' guides containing historical background, a brief history of puppetry, classroom activities, and a bibliography of useful resources, thus making my performance the basis of educational enrichment. As a former teacher and librarian, I encourage students to visit their school and public libraries to learn about puppets, to gather ideas for creating their own shows, and to read for the fun of it!
Back to TopWhat is the difference between a story show and a variety show?
Story shows dramatize favorite folk and literary tales ("Rumpelstiltskin," "Jack and the Beanstalk," "Sleeping Beauty"), while variety shows feature several short acts in which each puppet demonstrates a specific talent such as juggling, roller skating, dancing, and trapeze acrobatics. Because variety shows constantly feature something new, they are excellent for preschoolers, whose attention spans are shorter than are those of older children.
Back to TopHow many people do you perform for at one time?
For maximum enjoyment, audiences are best limited to about 250 people (puppets, after all, are roughly 1/3 the size of humans!). Larger crowds call for two shows, the second of which is discounted in price.
Back to TopHow long are your shows?
Most of my shows are 40 to 45 minutes long. While you may think this is too long for young children, something new and exciting is happening all the time, thus holding the little ones' interest.
Back to TopTo what ages do your shows appeal?
All ages! Since puppetry is a whole-family entertainment, I have plenty of action for the little ones, lots of silly jokes for the older ones, and even squeaky-clean jokes for the adults. EVERYONE joins in the audience participation portions of the shows, and EVERYONE has a great time!
Back to TopHow much do you charge?
Rates vary based on several factors, including (1) the location, (2) the type of venue, (3) the audience size, and (4) the time of year. I offer several options to fit your budget. Please call me to discuss your particular situation.
Back to TopCan you do a show outdoors?
Yes indeed, providing the weatherman isn't predicting rain, snow, hail, hurricane, or heat stroke. Clients must provide a level playing surface such as a concrete slab or a stage, an electrical outlet, and protection from the elements. It's always wise to have an indoor performance area standing by just in case the weather turns nasty.
Back to TopDo you perform at birthday parties?
Absolutely! What better way to create a once-in-a-lifetime memory for your child on her special day? She'll love you for bringing in my puppet show especially for her! And Mom and Dad, while the children are laughing and shouting at the puppets, you can set up the cake and ice cream--though you'll have so much fun, you may not want to leave the show! At show's end I gather the children for a group photo, then off to the table they go!
Back to TopDo you come into people's homes?
Yes I will. I have performed in living rooms, basements, garages, and on the lawn. I will also come to your club, to your church social hall, or to the location you choose.
Back to TopDo you bring a gift for the birthday child?
No. The show itself is a terrific gift the parents give the child, and I tell the children this before starting the performance. Please click on the "WORKSHOPS" link for information on my Birthday Party Puppets package.
Back to TopHow much room do you need?
This depends on the show you choose. I need 8'x8' of floor space and a ceiling height of 7'-6" for hand puppet shows and birthday party marionettes. Larger marionette shows require 12'x12' of floor space (16'x16' is even better) and a ceiling height of 8'. Remember to allow enough room for the children to sit on the floor.
Back to TopWhat do you need from me?
All I need is (1) ample performance space, (2) an electrical outlet, and (3) a reserved parking space near the performance area. Upon occasion I may request the assistance of two adults to help move the large marionette show in and out.
Back to TopHow much time do you need to set up?
From 20 to 90 minutes, depending on the particular show.
Back to TopHow do I pay you?
Payment is due at the time of the performance. Checks are welcome from schools, libraries, and other institutions. Cash is preferred from birthday parties. Should you prefer to use a credit card, I will provide instructions for paying online at www.PayPal.com.
Back to TopDo you provide references?
Absolutely! See the testimonials page on this site for a sampling. Additional references will be provided upon request.
Back to Top