The Center for Puppetry Arts is excited to announce its holiday line-up with the return of both Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ for its 13th year and the museum exhibition, Festive Features. This year, the Center adds a special holiday market for its after-hours Puppets and Pints event hosting local merchants.
The Center’s faithful adaptation of the 1964 Rankin/Bass television special, skillfully adapted by Artistic Director Jon Ludwig, has become a cherished Atlanta holiday tradition.
"We are absolutely delighted to welcome Rudolph back to the stage for its 13th year at the Center! At its essence, the performance embodies themes of acceptance and hope, celebrating the journey of a misfit finding their rightful place in the world. This timeless message remains as relevant today as it was when the original TV special premiered in 1964." — Artistic Director Jon Ludwig
The production features a talented cast of puppeteers who bring beloved characters to life including the iconic Rudolph, Santa, Mrs. Claus, Hermey, Yukon Cornelius and the Bumble. The use of body, rod, and black light puppets, along with a lively script and classic songs, promise an enchanting experience for audiences of all ages. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ is sponsored by Warner Bros. Discovery, Audi Atlanta, Kaiser Permanente and Publix Supermarket Charities.
In addition to the live performance, the Center's Festive Features museum exhibition invites guests to experience the original characters from classic holiday TV specials including Rudolph and Santa from the original 1964 TV production, Emmet and Ma Otter from Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas, Salem the cat from Sabrina the Teenage Witch, and The Jim Henson Company Reindeer from The Ed Sullivan Show.
For patrons with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other sensory sensitivities, the Center will host Sensory-Friendly Sunday on Nov. 9. Modifications will be made to the 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. performances, the Worlds of Puppetry Museum and the Create-A-Puppet Workshops™ to ensure a welcoming and inclusive environment. Resources such as social stories, a quiet room, noise-reducing headphones, sunglasses and fidget toys will be provided for patrons. More information is available at: puppet.org/visit/asd-sensory-friendly-sundays/
For guests who are deaf or hard of hearing, the Center will host American Sign Language Interpreted Performances on Saturday, Dec. 10 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. To learn more about ASL performances at the Center, visit: puppet.org/visit/asl-interpreted-performances/
All-inclusive Center tickets include the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ performance, admission to the Worlds of Puppetry Museum, access to the Festive Features special exhibition and the popular Create-A-Puppet Workshop™, where guests can build a Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ Shadow Puppet. Ticket prices range from $21 to $41, with reduced pricing in November. VIP tickets are available, offering premium front-section seating. Tickets and more information can be found at: puppet.org/programs/rudolph-the-red-nosed-reindeer/
For adults, the Center will host an 18+ event, Puppets and Pints, on Dec. 7. Adult patrons are invited to explore the two permanent galleries of the Worlds of Puppetry Museum along with the special museum Festive Features exhibition from 6-10 p.m. Light bites will be provided along with a cash bar. For this month’s Puppets and Pints event, the Center’s atrium will be transformed into a holiday market featuring items for sale by local merchants. To learn more and purchase tickets, visit: puppet.org/programs/puppets-and-pints/
PRICES VARY ACCORDING TO DAY AND DATE. *The Center will be closed on Wednesday, December 25 in observance of Christmas.
Center for Puppetry Arts is located at 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th Atlanta, GA 30309-2820. Tickets can be purchased online or by phone: 404.873.3391. Center for Puppetry Arts is on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Vimeo.
