The success of Avenue Q (playing The Fox Theatre March 25-30, 2008) proved what people have known for a long time: Kids aren’t the only ones who enjoy puppets. Atlanta’s world-renowned Center for Puppetry Arts annually produces nearly as many shows for teens and adults as it does for children. Improv Theatre Dad’s Garage produces shows featuring live actors and puppets. Here’s a run-down of what’s coming this season:
The Mother of All Enemies (April 9-13) The New York Times hailed puppeteer Paul Zaloom “one of the most original and talented political satirists working in theater.” Zaloom’s most recent spoof uses traditions of the Middle Eastern “Karagoz” shadow play to give new meaning to the term “shadow government.” Rated R. Center for Puppetry Arts
Xperimental Puppetry Theater (May 15-18) This puppet variety show features works by puppet veterans, neophytes and the occasional mad scientist. It’s an unpredictable night of theater that pushes the boundaries of puppetry. Rated PG-13. Center for Puppetry Arts
Fwd: (July 11-Aug. 2) A satirical story of a worker drone’s descent through madness, this comedy features a mix of puppets and live actors dealing with the insanity and inanity of the corporate world. Rated R. Dad’s Garage Theatre Company
