Puppetry Apprenticeship Opportunity for Youth

Detroit, MI – March 11, 2025 – 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.
 

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.

How to Apply
Applications are now open! 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. For more
information and to submit your application, visit www.puppetart.org.
 

PuppetART is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching communities through the art of
puppetry. Through performances, educational programs, and community outreach, PuppetART
fosters creativity, critical thinking, and cultural exchange locally and globally.