Embark on a journey to bring the enchanting world of puppetry to life through our GoFundMe campaign for “MIDDLEOF” an Interactive Puppetry Arts Installation. We believe in the power of creativity and storytelling, and with your support, we aim to create an immersive experience that transcends boundaries and captivates audiences of all ages. Your contributions will directly fuel the creation of interactive exhibits, cutting-edge technology integration, and the meticulous craftsmanship needed to make this dream a reality. As we pull the strings of imagination, your donation becomes a pivotal part of preserving the rich tradition of puppetry arts. Join us in fostering a space where individuals can connect with the magic of puppetry, shaping their own narratives and fostering a deep appreciation for this timeless art form. Every purchase takes us one step closer to unveiling a mesmerizing world where puppets come to life, and creativity knows no bounds. Thank you for helping us make this vision a tangible and enchanting reality.
"Introducing 'MIDDLEOF,' the newest venture from thepuppetryinstitute.org, a non-profit school specializing in Puppetry & SFX based in Capitola, CA. For comprehensive details about our diverse offerings, kindly explore our website at the.puppetryinstitute.org. In essence, our mission is concise: ensuring universal access for children and young adults to participate in our enriching workshops, enjoy performances, and engage in educational classes."
Navigating the challenges of the shutdown, The Puppetry Institute owes its survival to the fact that 70% of our funding is self-generated. This support comes from our gracious Patreons, revenue from workshop and performance sales, personal donations from friends, occasional anonymous contributions slipped under the door, and income from art sales. Previously, our primary funding source was performances, but unfortunately, these opportunities dwindled this year. Despite applying for every grant available, the heightened competition has made securing funding more challenging, especially when the term "puppet" can sometimes consign us to the uncertain "maybe" pile. To address this, we've devised a strategic plan to establish a new revenue stream, ensuring the sustained funding of our scholarship programs for years to come. Enter the enchanting realm of MIDDLEOF!
Immersing visitors in a fantastical realm of creativity and wonder, our Interactive Puppetry Arts installation draws inspiration from innovative spaces like Meow Wolf, Arte Museum, and The Museum of Illusion. This unique experience seamlessly fuses puppetry, technology, and interactive design to transport participants into a surreal world where imagination knows no bounds. Visitors become active participants, navigating through a multisensory landscape where puppetry comes to life in unexpected and enchanting ways. The installation challenges conventional boundaries, inviting guests to engage with puppets through touch, movement, and even virtual reality, creating a dynamic and immersive spectacle that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy. Just as Meow Wolf and similar spaces have redefined the traditional museum experience, our Interactive Puppetry Arts installation aims to captivate audiences, leaving them inspired, bewildered, and filled with a sense of awe.
Beyond sustaining our scholarship program, this project promises to offer employment opportunities to artists, actors, and makers from both the Central Coast and beyond, including talented young individuals with neurodivergent issues. Our initiative aims to create a safe and creative working environment for these individuals, fostering their skills and providing meaningful employment. With your support, we can turn this vision into reality. Additionally, it's worth noting that donations made toward this cause are tax deductible, adding an extra incentive for those looking to contribute to this impactful venture.
Thanks for your time
Making The World A Cooler Place… One Puppet At A Time!
Ricki Vincent
Artistic Director
The Puppetry Institute
Supporters