March 25th, 2012
Puppetry Arts Center, Delray Beach, Museum, Theatre, Marionette Puppets, Ventriloquism Magic, Gift Shop, Reference Library, Black Box Theatre, Palm Beach County
Puppetry is a form of theatre, which manipulates puppets. It also involves storytelling. It is an ancient art form; about 30,000 years old. Puppets have been used to animate and communicate ideas and the needs of human societies.
With that in mind, I stopped to see the new home of the Puppetry Arts Center Museum and Theatre, located at 94 NE 2nd Ave., Delray Beach, FL. This area is also called Pineapple Grove.
I met the Director, Mrs. Janeen (Jan) Timmis. She told me that they had been in the county since 1993, but, just recently, opened in Delray.
You will find them there from about Noon on; Mondays through Saturdays. Shows are posted on their website, http://www.puppetcenter.org. You may also call them at 561-243-4330. On Facebook as Puppetry Center of the Palm Beaches and on Twitter as Sunshine Puppet.
Shows held during the day are $6.50, unless otherwise noted. In the evenings they are $10.00. If you have a group of 20 or more, please give them a call since they will give you a break. Please note that they only accept cash.
Next Puppet Show will be, Saturday, march 31st at 2:00 p.m.
On Mondays, at 1:00 p.m. you can learn puppet performance and manipulation with both, marionettes and hand puppets. Please give them a call at 561-243-4330 if you are interested in attending. It is free.
Even though a lot of the shows are tailored for children, there is also Magic and Comedy for adults 18 and over. You just have to check the schedule or give them a call, as well.
As I stepped inside the Center, on the left hand side, you will find a small Museum and Exhibit. There were puppets representing many styles, sizes, and cultures. Favorite characters, as well.
A group of Indonesian Wayang Golek Rod Puppets. These puppets’ bodies were carved from Acacia wood with intricate fine details. Hand painted and dressed in Batik clothes.
A Puppet Reference Library with a large number of puppet related books, videos, journals and photos for anyone to use while visiting the Center.
On the other side of the Center, a shop with puppets and marionettes available for sale.
In the back is the Theatre. It can accommodate large groups or could be tailored for much smaller and intimate groups, as well. Wheelchair accessible.
Jan and her husband were very friendly and would love to discuss puppets with you. They are like grandparents and I am sure children relate to them beautifully.
So, if you are in Delray Beach, or towns nearby, check them out.
Have a great Day!!
Tags: Delray Beach, entertainment, Magic & Comedy in Delray Beach, Palm Beach County, Puppet Store, Puppetry Arts Center Museum & Theatre, PuppetryArts Center, Things to do at the beach, Ventriloquism in Delray Beach, What to do at the beaches
Do u do summer camps in June?
They are open year-round. The best thing to do is to call them directly to the telephone on the post. Thanks.
The telephone is 561-243-4330.