Workshops & Classes

Guest Artist Workshop with Noel MacNeal

Feb 6, 2027 | 2PM

Pricing

$25.00 for non-Members

Eligible Member prices are confirmed in your cart.

Event Details

Category: Workshops and Classes
Age Guidance: All Ages
Museum Included

Learn with Noel MacNeal

About the Workshop

Noel MacNeal will lead a family workshop and share the same puppeteering skills he learned from Jim Henson himself and has taught puppeteers around the world.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the best! Includes a take-home origami puppet.

About the Artist

NOEL MACNEAL is a two-time Emmy Award-winning director, performer, and puppeteer whose work has shaped children's television and contemporary puppetry for decades. He is best known as the performer behind Bear in Disney's Bear in the Big Blue House and Lionel on PBS's Between the Lions, and brought his artistry to Sesame Street, Eureeka's Castle, and The Puzzle Place. He currently serves as a resident puppeteer on HBO's Last Week Tonight with John Oliver. His directing work on Sesame Street earned him two Daytime Emmy Awards. On stage, Noel made his Broadway debut in Rob Lake Magic with Special Guests The Muppets and periodically performs Off-Broadway as Audrey II in Little Shop of Horrors.

Noel is also the creator of The Show Me Show, an inclusive puppetry series developed for autistic and special needs children, reflecting his ongoing commitment to accessibility, communication, and joy through puppetry. Following a triumphant solo debut at 54 Below in New York City, Noel brings his hit concert Hey, This Was Really Fun! — a musical journey through his life, his characters, and the lessons they've taught him — to the Vince Anthony Founders Theater stage.

Don't Miss Related Puppetry NOW Shows & Events

PERFORMANCE

Noel MacNeal's Hey, This Was Really Fun!

February 5-6, 2027

On stage for 2 nights only! This hit at its New York City debut at 54 Below, Hey, This Was Really Fun! tells the story of Noel MacNeal's life and the lessons he's learned through the iconic characters he has brought to life.

Learn More

SPECIAL EXHIBITION

Noel MacNeal: Puppetry NOW

February 5-May 30, 2027

Noel MacNeal curated a selection of beloved puppets and behind-the-scenes materials from his career. The exhibition includes Magellan and Webster from Eureeka’s Castle, Lionel from Between the Lions, Kako from Oobi and more! Opening Reception February 4, 2027.

What is Puppetry NOW?

Puppetry NOW is the Center for Puppetry Arts’ initiative to highlight contemporary artists and voices historically underrepresented in puppetry. Launched in 2022, the program brings artists to the Center for short-term residencies that include a solo exhibition, live performances, and educational workshops.

At the end of each exhibition, the Center acquires a piece of the artist’s work for its permanent collection, ensuring their contributions can be enjoyed for generations.

Through Puppetry NOW, we provide space, resources, and support for creative expression and artistic growth. This initiative connects the Center to the evolving state of puppetry while offering audiences bold, innovative work.