Mainstage Shows
All dates, times, and titles are subject to change. Check back regularly for the most accurate information.
Great Lakes National Puppet Theater presents: The Frog Prince
July 5, 2025 - July 20, 2025
Great Lakes National Puppet Theater presents another classic fairytale. “The Frog Prince”, was first published in Germany, in 1812 by the Brothers Grimm. It is the story of a prince, who is placed under a spell by a wicked witch and can only be restored by the kiss of a beautiful princess. Performed using brilliantly crafted marionettes, as well as theatrical lighting and special effects, this production is perfect for school, library, theaters, and family series programming.
Recommended for 4+.
Run time of approximately 45 minutes.
Barefoot Puppet Theatre presents: New Squid on the Block
July 26th - August 10th, 2025
It can be hard to make friends. Especially if you have tentacles. Journey to Antarctica as a curious squid seeks connection in the most unlikely of places. Penguins, orcas, and jellyfish abound in an icy landscape for this heartwarming tale of friendship. Beautifully handcrafted puppets, an original score by Ned Haskins, and a good dose of silliness, combine to create a comedic, wordless performance that celebrates our ability to create connections, despite our differences.
Recommended for 4+. Run time of approximately 45 minutes.
Bits 'N Pieces Puppet Theatre presents: The Selfish Giant's Garden
August 23, 2025 - September 14, 2025
Bits ‘N Pieces Puppet Theatre’s “The Selfish Giant’s Garden” is based on Oscar Wilde’s famous fairy tale about a giant who learns it’s never too late to share. The production features lathe-turned wooden marionettes. The puppet’s simple wooden surface is left so children can use their imagination. The hair is made of rope, the eyes of shiny brads. The string puppet children are round and smooth while the Giant is boxy and rough. The musical show contrasts selfishness and sharing. How does a Selfish Giant learn to share?
Recommended for 4+.
Run time of approximately 45 minutes.
Previous 2025 Mainstage Shows
Twisted Tales: The Three Goldilocks Gruff
June 7, 2025 - June 29, 2025
This summer, dive into a whirlwind of imagination with Twisted Tales—a magical, mischievous play where sibling rivalry meets fairy tale mayhem! When siblings Bailey and Frank spend the summer at the theater with their eccentric Aunt Ingrid, they must learn to work together to bring their hilariously twisted versions of classic tales to life. From grumpy goats to plucky pigs, nothing goes according to the storybooks in this laugh-out-loud adventure full of heart, humor, and handmade chaos brought to you by the creative team at the Puppet Co.!
Piccadilly Puppets presents: Cat and Mouse Tales
May 17, 2025 - May 26, 2025
This show will have kids squeaking with delight as they journey through several folktales featuring these furry friends, set to an early rock beat. Will the cat ever catch the mouse, or can these natural enemies ever be friends?
Stories include “The Lion and the Mouse” (Aesop), “Why Siamese Cats Have a Kink in their Tales” (Thailand), and “Why Cats Chase Mice” (Myanmar)
Jeghetto’s Entertainment presents: Jeghetto’s Workshop
May 3, 2025 - May 11, 2025
Jeghetto's Workshop is a family show for all ages. Learn how Jeghetto builds and manipulates his original puppets over hip-hop instrumentals. This is a very interactive production, you never know, you can be pulled up on stage and be part of the show!
Applause Unlimited presents: The Magic of Hans Christian Andersen
March 29, 2025 - April 27, 2025
Applause Unlimited celebrates one of the 20th century’s greatest storytellers with their award-winning show, “The Magic of Hans Christian Andersen.” Sometimes serious and heartwarming, sometimes downright silly, but always fun, the show features storytelling and song as well as over twenty hand puppets, rod puppets, and marionettes in three of Andersen’s best-loved tales: “The Ugly Duckling,” “Thumbelisa,” and “The Emperor’s New Clothes.” Filled with humor and messages suitable for all ages, this show presents the stories that grandparents will recognize, parents will love to share, and every child will long remember.
Peter and the Wolf
February 14, 2025 - March 16, 2025
Follow Peter, a courageous and naïve boy on his quest to catch the Wolf against the wishes of his grandfather and his animal friends of the woods. This production will incorporate the classic music in this two-person small marionette romp.
Directed by Maggie Rocha.
Recommended for 4+.
Run time of approximately 40 minutes.
Available for touring!
Beale Street Puppets Presents: Snowflakes!
Jan 11, 2025 - February 2, 2025
Winter is Whimsical with Merry Marionettes!
Jack Frost brings his magical touch to winter: come see Nicicle Icicle the Penguin, Louis Walrus and his Sardine Chorus, Jingle Belle the Ice Skater, and Jolly Holly the Snowman! Our Snowflake Showgirls dance while our Tuxedo Penguins tip their tophats to you!
Performed by Jill Kyle-Keith.