HAMILTON – Students at the Sherburne-Earlville Elementary School will exhibit puppets created in their art class at The Palace Theater in Hamilton. Inspired by the Cashore Marionettes in Simple Gifts art teachers Storm Hammond and Greta Shiffer taught the students how to combine their creative and mechanical ideas to create shadow, hand, finger, and large puppets. The public is welcome to view the exhibit Thursday, April 29, noon-6 p.m., Friday, April 30, noon to 8 p.m. and Saturday, May 1, 2-3 p.m. and 4-5 p.m.
“As the puppets take form, they also begin to have a personality. The kids talk to their puppets, that begin to talk back ... sometimes they even dance, sing and act with the kids in class,” says Greta Shiffer. “It’s wonderful to see art come to life.”
The Cashore Marionettes in Simple Gifts is Saturday, May 1 from 3-4 p.m. at The Palace Theater. Joseph Cashore, creator of the Cashore Marionettes, was similarly inspired at a young age. “It was hanging from the ceiling – a pirate, colorfully dressed. I remember looking at this marionette for a long time, imagining the possibilities. I had to work up all my courage to ask the saleswoman if I could try moving the marionette. She turned me down ... the rest is history.”
Simple Gifts uses sensational music, theatrical marvel and majestic puppetry. Each marionette appears alive as Joseph breathes life through his hands, creating a magical experience that is completely breathtaking. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students, children (not suggested for children under 7), and seniors 60+. View a sample of the show by visiting www.palacetheater.org and clicking on the link under the Simple Gifts photo on the calendar page. The Palace Theater is located at 19 Utica Street, Hamilton. Tickets are non refundable. Seating is general admission. Please visit www.palacetheater.org or phone (315) 824-1420 for more information or to order tickets.