The Center for Puppetry Arts in Atlanta is an absolute hidden gem! From the moment we walked in, we were captivated by the immersive world of puppetry. The museum exhibits are fascinating, and we had the chance to see some of our childhood favorites like Kermit the Frog and Big Bird, as well as the incredible characters from The Dark Crystal. The collection is extensive and beautifully curated, offering a deeper understanding of the artistry and history of puppetry.
The interactive experiences were a lot of fun, especially for kids and anyone young at heart. It was a joy to see the puppets up close and learn about the craftsmanship that brings them to life.
Our only minor gripe is that they donโt accept cash, which felt a bit inconvenient, especially when we wanted to support a place so they did not incur merchant fees. It was lost on them that anyone would want to do this. ODD. But honestly, that small issue didnโt take away from the overall experience.
The performances were also a highlight, and we were thoroughly entertained throughout our visit. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, making it clear that theyโre passionate about the craft. Whether youโre a lifelong puppetry fan or just looking for something unique to do in Atlanta, the Center for Puppetry Arts is a must-visit. We left thoroughly impressed and will...
ย ย ย Read moreThis really is a gem of a place. The museum is full of things for young and old. They have puppets from around the world and also a huge array of Jim Henson puppets from a wide variety of his shows and movies. My godchildren did the hunt to find all the things on the sheet they provided, which they loved. Their Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer show every year is by far the most upscale and professional show. Their masterful puppeteers work so hard and the show is nearly identical to the old stop motion movie. My only criticism, and this is a really big one - I know the show is for kids. I get it. I'm a mom and godmother. I understand children very well and am tolerant of the hussle and constant movement and noise of little kids; however, for the love of God, if your child is crying nonstop and is not enjoying the show and is making it miserable for everyone around, remove him/her. The attendants were more concerned with copyright infringement (stopping folks from taking pics during the show) than ensuring we had a good experience. There was one child behind us howling during 3/4 of the show. The attendants should have asked them to leave. I gave them five stars bc I don't want to penalize this place bc it truly is the best hidden gem around. Grateful for how hard they work and...
ย ย ย Read moreWhen I saw on Instagram that the Center For Puppetry Arts had some of the Labyrinth and The Dark Crystal puppets, I knew right away that it needed to be part of my visit to Georgia (I'm from Colorado). I was also excited to see other puppets from around the world, they were beautifully made and absolutely inspiring pieces of craftsmanship. I learned a lot about different kinds of puppetry shows, including ones performed on water!
I spent hours looking at all of the Sesame Street and Muppet puppets and took so many pictures of all of the lovingly crafted details. Puppets were a huge part of movies and shows while I was growing up and I feel immense awe and gratitude being able to see some of these characters that are important to me up close. Seeing some of these things as a kid inspired me to become an artist and learn how to draw. It never happened (and won't in the future either!): but my dream job would have been working for Jim Henson's Creature Shop. More than once I teared up in a really good way. As soon as It's Not Easy Being Green played at the end of the Muppet exhibit I just broke down crying (again in a very nice way). Jim Henson was taken away much too soon and was just such a wonderful person. It was my absolute honor to get to visit this place and the kind volunteers...
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