The Puppet Hub

The Puppet Hub

In addition to the incredible pageant of international and U.S. puppetry artists, the Puppet Hub is back and open throughout the festival. It’s the perfect place to relax between shows, get a bite to eat, meet up with friends, make new ones, and learn more about contemporary puppetry. Attractions include:           

“Two Ways Down” Exhibition by Laura Heit
This showcase of visiting festival artist Laura Heit’s exquisite hand-drawn animation and film Two Ways Down takes inspiration from Hieronymus Bosch’s “The Garden of Heavenly Delights.” Reflecting on the momentary nature of life, marvel how Heit’s fantastical piece uses thrown shadows from tabletop dioramas and reflected and refracted animated projections to create a fleeting world.

Giant Puppet Lanterns Exhibition
Look for a room full of giant lantern puppets created in the pre-festival workshop with Andrew Kim of Thingamugig.

Pop-Up Puppet Shop
The perfect spot to stock up on your newest Chicago Puppet Fest swag.

The Spoke & Bird Pop-Up Cafe
Stop by The Spoke & Bird Pop-Up Cafe if you’re coming to a show at the Studebaker Theater, workshops, readings and special events in the Fine Arts Building, or any Puppet Fest show downtown. Enjoy coffee, tea, winter soups and baked treats in a cozy, puppet-inspired setting, and check out the surrounding exhibits.