The WP Puppet Theatre is a unique space where the classic art of puppetry meets innovative theatrical technology. WP Puppet Theatre was founded by a woman who simply wanted to keep playing as an adult, and it ultimately grew into a massive, meaningful project. In this calgary-trend article, we’ll explore the theatre’s history and its impactful work in the community.
A History of Passion and Puppets
Once upon a time, two young girls named Wendy and Pam climbed into an attic, crafted tiny puppets from popsicle sticks and cardboard, and started putting on sock puppet shows. Wendy grew up and founded the WP Puppet Theatre Society (WPTS). Since 1991, the Society has done a tremendous amount of work to keep the art of puppetry thriving.
The Society has also actively championed environmental protection and supported community mental health initiatives. The WP Puppet Theatre has performed on the stages of major art centres and at fairs across the US. The theatre has toured extensively, visiting the smallest airstrips in Canada’s northern forests and the largest airports in the United States. WP Puppet Theatre has presented its shows to thousands of audience members who have learned, cried, and laughed thanks to the puppets.
WP Puppet Theatre’s performances go far beyond traditional puppetry. They are truly interactive events that draw the audience into the process. The theatre creates programs tailored for children, teens, and adults alike.
Why Puppetry Still Matters
Puppets, you could say, speak their own language. Throughout the history of puppet theatre, creative minds have used this unique medium to challenge authority and address serious social problems. Puppetry acts as a universal platform for expressing controversial social issues, helping us generate fresh ideas and foster collaboration. The puppet theatre encourages both adults and children to reflect on and discuss uncomfortable topics.
The Core Values of WP Puppet Theatre
WP Puppet Theatre adheres to a strict policy of inclusivity in its work. The theatre values diversity, welcoming people of every nationality, emotional and sexual orientation, religious background, marital status, mental and physical health status, political view, and more.
The theatre recognizes that art can profoundly influence youth development, and it strives to create a safe space for dialogue, questioning, and advocating for all interests. Through its shows and programs, the theatre actively works to ensure equity and inclusion for all participants.
Community Programs
Beyond its performances, the puppet theatre offers several educational programs for people of all ages. For example, the theatre runs the “View” program for youth aged 12 to 18. This program aligns with the Career and Life Management (CALM) curriculum’s concepts of art and drama. “View” creates a space for self-reflection and creativity where young people explore how to manage their personal well-being and future.
The theatre also features a program for adults and seniors, designed to engage older adults in creative development within an enjoyable atmosphere. This helps seniors address issues of isolation and mental health they may be facing. The program includes various artistic practices that provide opportunities for emotional expression and social interaction.
The theatre also offers various workshops, including specialized puppetry workshops where participants can create their own puppets and stage performances.
In summary, WP Puppet Theatre is a space for creativity, emotional healing, and social dialogue. The theatre quite literally bridges generations, helping people tell their own stories and navigate personal crises.
