File puptcrit/puptcrit.0802, message 952


Date: Thu, 28 Feb 2008 16:13:40 -0800 (PST)
From: Michael Dowell <moodooguru-AT-sbcglobal.net>
To: puptcrit-AT-puptcrit.org
Subject: Re: [Puptcrit] Puppet superstars!


Hi Mathieu,

Thanks for posting this. Part of the original
intention of Moodoo Puppets (based in Los Angeles) was
to create shows for adult audiences. Starting in 2001,
I worked with a talented group of puppeteers and
artists to co-create an imaginative musical puppet
show from outer space.

We performed at the Derby, SIlverlake Lounge and other
venues in Los Angeles to sold-out crowds, due to the
fact that the headliner was a sought-after band
called, "The Trachtenberg Family Slideshow Players". I
had a lot of fun, met some really cool people, learned
a lot, and had a unique and magical experience. It
wasn't a money-making endeavor, however, and I wanted
to try doing shows for kids. So I steered the show in
that direction, which has worked out very well. I feel
very successful in terms of fun, artistic
satisfaction, learning on many levels, and earning
income.

Now it feels like I've taken the puppet show full
circle, because we are "rocking" the family crowds.
It's a rock show, but there's no music. We MAKE them
laugh -- huge waves of laughter. Huge screams. Huge
joy!

Your post mentions certain aspects of a great show for
adults: Freaky, unique, cool. I would add sexy, funny,
imaginative, "rock and roll" (which can mean any kind
of music that moves the crowd and brings people into
their bodies -- and out of their minds). Basically the
show should push people past the comfort zone a little
and into having the most fun and creative experience
anyone has ever had. They should pee their pants with
laughter. Someone (or everyone) should get naked as a
result of seeing the show. It must also reek of genius
and intelligence.

Thanks Mathieu, for putting out the call for Puppet
Superstars. In response I ask the question: Who's on
board?

Michael
Moodoo Puppets

--- Mathieu René <creaturiste-AT-primus.ca> wrote:

> I'm watching the Ziggy Stardust "motion picture",
> and realise how much of a 
> freak David Bowie really was and probably still is.
> Freaky and different is 
> good, in my book.
> 
> He's more than freaky: he scary and hard to grasp,
> but usually fascinating.
> Kind of like a really good puppet (the scary part is
> optionnal)!
> 
> He is one of the biggest superstars, still to this
> day.
> He's got a definite connection wih puppetry, because
> of his role as Jareth, 
> the Goblin king in the movie Labyrinth.
> (That movie was probably the start of my fascination
> with puppets, and the 
> introduction to Bowie's music.)
> 
> Looking at his antics on stage, which are just as
> extravagant as his music, 
> I'm thinking: wouldn't it be GREAT if a puppet show
> could get such power in 
> front of audiences? Wether it be a music group
> comprised of puppets or a 
> Blue Men Group kind of approach, I'm thinking
> there's lots of potential.
> Puppetry CAN be widely recognised as COOL, though
> the smart use of pop 
> culture.
> Then, by association, the rest of Puppetry can be
> more visible, less 
> underground.
> I don't think the few appearances of puppets on the
> "Got Talent" TV shows 
> are enough so far.
> 
> There are puppet bands out there.
> 
> The one I can find info about is this:
> http://www.puppetmastaz.com/
> They are a german rap group.  Interesting and non
> conventaional puppets.
> Their rap is engaging too. They have videos on their
> site and on youtube.
> The whole website is built around the puppet
> concept. Beware, there are some 
> terms that might be considered as vulgar...hey, it's
> rap!
> 
> I'd like to know about more puppet music groups.
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
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