Youth apprenticeship program
PuppetART, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the art of puppetry, announced an exciting opportunity for young people aged 15 to 25 to join the PuppetART Apprenticeship Program. In partnership with the Chalfonte Theatre, and supported by generous funding from the Michigan Arts and Culture Council (MACC) and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), this program offers an immersive experience that combines artistic training, cultural exchange, and professional development in the field of puppetry.Young people aged 15 to 25 who are passionate about the arts and eager to explore the world of puppetry are encouraged to apply by April 18, 2025.
The PuppetART Apprenticeship Program provides intensive training in rod, string, and hand puppetry under the mentorship of skilled puppetry professionals. Participants will also have the chance to perform in PuppetART’s renowned touring productions and showcase their talents in the Chalfonte Theatre’s HIP Show and PuppetTV, PuppetART’s online digital platform dedicated to the art of puppetry, soon to be broadcast across the globe.
To support the participants' dedication and commitment, PuppetART will provide a stipend during the six-month apprenticeship. Upon successful completion of the program, apprentices will be offered the opportunity to transition into full- or part-time positions as puppeteers with PuppetART’s touring and production company.
A Unique Cross-Cultural Experience
The program brings together youth from urban Detroit and rural Elk Rapids for a transformative cultural exchange. Apprentices will travel between these two vibrant communities, gaining a deeper understanding of diverse cultural perspectives while honing their artistic and technical skills.
“We believe that the art of puppetry is not only a creative outlet but also a bridge that connects people from different backgrounds,” said Laura Branham, a PuppetART board member and one of the program directors. “This program provides young people with the tools to express themselves artistically, while also fostering empathy and mutual understanding across communities.”
Program Highlights:
● Comprehensive Training: Apprentices will master multiple puppetry techniques under the guidance of experienced puppeteers.
● Cultural Exchange: Scholars from Detroit and Elk Rapids will share experiences and gain a broader perspective of diverse communities.
● Professional Opportunities: Participants will perform in touring productions and special events, gaining valuable stage and technical experience.
● Supportive Environment: Apprentices will receive room and board when traveling away from home, a monthly stipend, and access to a variety of educational and cultural outings.
Empowering the Next Generation of Artists
PuppetART is committed to making puppetry accessible to all, regardless of age, background, or financial means. This apprenticeship program empowers youth by providing them with valuable life experiences and professional training that will shape their personal and career development. The program emphasizes community engagement, offering field trips to museums, cultural institutions, puppet theatres, artist studios, and more. These activities deepen understanding of the arts, history, and science while highlighting the intersection of creativity and education.
“PuppetART has always been committed to fostering creativity and cross-cultural connections,” said Igor Gozman, PuppetART’s founder. “This program is a testament to our dedication to youth empowerment through the arts, and we are incredibly grateful to MACC and the NEA for their support in making this vision a reality.” Through this apprenticeship, PuppetART aims to provide young people with the tools they need to thrive as empathetic, culturally aware individuals while ensuring the art of puppetry remains vibrant and accessible to all.
PuppetART is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching communities through the art of puppetry. Through performances, educational programs, and community outreach, PuppetART.