PACKRAT Presented by New York Based Concrete Temple Theater at Center for Puppetry Arts
Embark on an enthralling odyssey with PACKRAT — an enchanting exploration of the intricacies of nature
February 21-March 3
ATLANTA (February 2024) – The Center for Puppetry Arts invites you to experience an enchanting voyage through the Sagebrush Desert with the New York-based Concrete Temple Theatre’s mesmerizing production, “PACKRAT.” Set against the expansive and breathtaking desert panorama and complemented by an original score that gracefully accentuates multimedia elements, this puppet play explores the intricacies of the human connection with the natural world. In addition to performances of “PACKRAT,” Concrete Temple Theatre will also partner with the Center for Puppetry Arts to present an online puppetry and design workshop on Feb. 6.
“A journey of rescue and redemption … Thoroughly mesmerizing … amazingly expressive …” and “has the solemn austerity of an ancient fable.” – The New York Times
“PACKRAT” weaves together puppetry, projections and an original score to create a multi-layered narrative that explores the profound connection between humans and nature. Bud, a peculiar rodent known for hoarding humankind’s discarded goods, has his world upended when a careless act results in a wildfire, resulting in a life-threatening crisis for the animals who live in Bud’s valley. Already ostracized for his hoarding instincts, Bud becomes the scapegoat for the human-made disasters affecting the animals’ lives, leading to his banishment from the community. Alone amidst the raging fire, Bud embarks on a poignant journey, confronting both human-made dangers and natural obstacles.
“A play must be doing something right when it can successfully invest a serving spoon with emotional resonance. ‘PACKRAT’ tells a straightforward but moving tale, wonderfully performed. If one can see a theatrical experience as another kind of human treasure, you will want to add some time spent with Bud, Firestone and the other inhabitants of the Valley to your own collection.” – THINKING THEATRE
Presented by New York-based Concrete Temple Theatre, “PACKRAT” will be on stage from Feb. 21 to March 3 and is recommended for ages 12+. To learn more, visit: puppet.org/programs/packrat/
In addition to “PACKRAT” performances, Concrete Temple Theatre will also present an online puppetry and design workshop for ages 16+, presented via Zoom on Feb. 6 at 7 p.m. EST. This workshop will introduce participants to different ways of approaching the construction of puppets and lead participants in the construction of a puppet using rattan. To learn more, visit: puppet.org/programs/concrete-temple-theatres-puppetry-design-workshop-rattan/
Center for Puppetry Arts® is a unique cultural treasure – a magical place where children and adults are educated, enlightened, and entertained. Since 1978, the Center has introduced millions of visitors to the wonder and art of puppetry and has touched the lives of many through enchanting performances, curriculum-based workshops, and the hands-on Museum as well as Digital Learning and Outreach programs. Center for Puppetry Arts is a non-profit, 501(c) (3) organization and is supported in part by contributions from corporations, foundations, government agencies, and individuals. Major funding is provided by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners and the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs. These programs are also supported in part by the Georgia Council for the Arts through the appropriations of the Georgia General Assembly. GCA is a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. The Center is a member of Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA/USA/ASSITEJ). The Center also serves as the headquarters of UNIMA-USA, the American branch of Union Internationale de la Marionnette, the international puppetry organization.