We thought it might be nice to share some of the praise the puppets have received from various sources, such as our Facebook page. We hope that if you have not already visited us, these bon mots might inspire you and your family to do so:
Another Great Review! “The one-man, multi-marionette show is not just an engaging and entertaining theatre experience, it’s also an impressive demonstration of the art of puppetry.” – Kid Friendly DC
Peter and the Wolf = TIMELESS! “What brings the story to life is the wry sense of character that Piper imbues in each puppet he touches, along with enabling their realistic and signature movements for a magical treat that has won the company national acclaim.” – Debbie Jackson, DC Theatre Scene
FIVE-STAR REVIEW! “Piper is extraordinarily skilled at performing multiple characters in a solo act, lending each one a specific voice and unique mannerisms. This wide range is very impressive, and it makes him a joy to watch with every visit.” Julia Exline, MD Theatre Guide
“Thank you for your dedication to family entertainment and puppet theater. My daughter, [], saw her first show, ‘The Nutcracker,’ in 2005 when she was 2. We have now seen 29 performances of ‘The Nutcracker’ at the Puppet Co. and she prefers your show to the American Ballet Theater’s performance at the Kennedy Center. Together, we have logged in more than 60 shows in your Glen Echo theater over the last 6 years, and you have instilled in her a love of theater. Thank you for all that you and your staff do. Randy S. – accompanied by donation.
FIVE-STAR REVIEW! “With life-sized puppets, splendid effects, and a beautiful score, this show [The Nutcracker] is extremely enjoyable for people of all ages. If your family is only seeing one show this holiday season, then make it this one!” Julia Exline, MD Theatre Guide
“Filled with all that festive Tsakovsky music, this production will fill the entire family with the holiday spirit.” “Must See Holiday Shows” – Broadway World
“I like to think that we’re actually adding something to the genre, if you will, that by doing this with puppets, it’s something unique and it’s a curiosity,” Piper says. “But it’s also, I think, a very good way of telling the story because the characters can actually fly.” - Gazette Newspapers
“But the JavaKids’ first exposure to a live version of this classic tale was yesterday at The Puppet Company in Glen Echo Park in [Glen Echo], MD and though it is very much a departure from the ballet performance I grew up with, it was absolutely appropriate for their ages and a great introduction. This was also our first visit to the puppet theater and we are already looking forward to attending another show.” – Java Mom, Caffeine and a Prayer
The Puppet Company’s telling of The Nutcracker, in a not-so-traditional way using not-so-traditional actors, was enchanting. If you’ve never experienced The Nutcracker, this is an excellent introduction. And if you’re weary of ballet versions, the Puppet Company comes to your rescue with their 24th year of performing this holiday classic. – ShowBizRadio.com
“I just want you to know that I am now bringing my third grandchild to your productions, and I feel as stronly as ever that yours is the very best entertainment for young children that is available anywhere. Only your puppet shows are what children’s entertainment should be – wonderful & whimsical. Gaby M., accompanied by donation.
“Really loved the Nutcracker on Friday – thanks so much!” – Alexa K. via Facebook
“The Nutcracker was great! It was my 4-year-old’s first exposure to the show and he was quite captivated with the fight sequence. He’s now running around our house with a toy sword, gathering up all of our toy nutcrackers. Thanks for inspiring him!” – Tanya L. via Facebook
“Snow White and the 7 Dwarves” was given Helen Hayes Recommended® status. This is our sixth such recommendation.
Snow White and the 7 Dwarves – “The marionettes capture all the whimsy and magic of a fairytale, while displaying the amazing artistry of their makers. Amid a set composed of a large circle (used as the queen’s mirror, the dwarves cottage, and the forest) with digital images projected through it to set the scene, it’s a wonderful presentation of a timeless tale.” – Kid Friendly DC
Snow White and the 7 Dwarves – The story told through generations speaks for itself, and thanks to the ingenuity and creativity of the Puppet Company, its got a fresh new spin with a clever blend of fantasy and reality…” – Debbie Jackson, DC Theater Scene
Snow White and the 7 Dwarves – After 27 years, the Puppet Co. knows the exact formula for a successful show. “Snow White” is dark enough to grab the attention of parents, but not too scary for young children. Its 40-minute running time is ideal as well. – video and article by Jordan Edwards, Gazette.net
“We missed the Tiny Tots yesterday but were able to see Jack and the Beanstalk which was excellent. Thank you!” – Katie M. on Facebook
“Jack and the Beanstalk” was given Helen Hayes Recommended® status. This is our fifth such recommendation.
“We have been to the Puppet Co. and absolutely LOVE their shows! My boys have so much fun there!” – Meg V. “We saw Jack on Sunday. great show – the giant is fantastic!” – Lisa K. Comments on Our Kids about “Jack and the Beanstalk.”
Took Jada to see Jack and the Beanstalk at Puppet Co Playhouse, she loved it – Christy L. on Facebook
WOW! I saw this show [The Wizard of Oz] back in either 2000 or 2001 for my Birthday Party!! I remember always wanting puppets that looked like the real book characters after this show! It was AMAZING! Congrats for keeping it so successful for over 10 years! – jacktodd1 on YouTube
“Congratulations on Helen Hayes recommendation – well deserved. The first children’s show [Velveteen Rabbit] that gave me goosebumps – not what you usually expect from the pre-K puppet show =)” – Yulia K.
Revue of Velveteen Rabbit by Debbie Jackson >”…a quiet wonder, a reprieve from the sensory overload that can bombard the senses in today’s multitasked times..”
“Took Jada to see the Nutcracker” at the PuppetCo Playhouse….my girl is now a theater freak, she wants to be in the nutcracker, love it” – Christy L.
“Thanks again for all that you do for our kids and the community. Really, your performances are wonderful – and the introduction you provide to the arts – especially what you did to engage the children with Tchaikovsky… that was amazing – is a real gift back to the community.” – Julie H.
From Frost School, Rockville, MD
“I was there ["The Nutcracker"] this past Saturday with my grandkids. It was so beautiful. I want to congratulate all of you. I am so happy I discovered the PuppetCo. You all do such a great job and I love the attention to details towards the kids and families. Keep it up! And yes, I am telling other friends about you!” -Virginia S.
“My son saw the production ["The Nutcracker"] with his preschool class this week and can’t stop talking about it. We are looking forward to coming this weekend to see the show.” – Missy D.
“Fantastic! Today our family enjoyed “The Nutcracker” at The Puppet Co.” – Cristiane D.
“The Puppet Company, Best Party Ever!! That is what my guest said of hosting Lawyer’s party at The Puppet Co. The staff is such a joy to work with from the House Manager, Ms. Piper and Erin. Of course “The Nutcracker” crew made the other icing on the cake! I will tell everybody about this magicial place. It made my sons birthday so eventful! Now when I read him the story I purchased he says “My Birthday Party”! We will always remember this. Thank you! I posted some pictures on my page of Lawyer and Ms.Piper! Thanks again – The S. Family!” – Jialita S.
