Special Event

Opening Reception of Noel MacNeal: Puppetry NOW

Feb 4, 2027 | 6PM

Pricing

$25.00 for non-Members

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Event Details

Category: Special Events
Age Guidance: Ages 18+
Running Time: 120 Minutes (2 hours)
Museum Included

Exclusive First Look at the Exhibition

About the Event

ONE NIGHT ONLY. Join EMMY-winning director Noel MacNeal, known for Eureeka's Castle, Bear in the Big Blue House, and Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, and Atlanta Journal Constitution's Christopher A. Daniel as they explore MacNeal’s remarkable career, creative process, and lasting impact on the art of puppetry.

Guests will be among the first to experience the Center for Puppetry Arts’ 2027 Puppetry NOW exhibition, featuring works from the acclaimed puppeteer, performer, and creator.

What to Expect:

6PM Door Open
7PM Program Begins
Cash bar & light bites included

About the Moderator

Christopher A. Daniel is a Black Culture reporter for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He is an Atlanta-based, award-winning journalist, cultural critic and ethnomusicologist. The Spartanburg, South Carolina native previously held teaching stints with Morehouse College, Clark Atlanta University and Georgia State University: creating each universities' music, entertainment, and lifestyle journalism courses.

Daniel has covered or moderated every installment of Puppetry NOW for the Center for Puppetry Arts since the program's inception in 2022.

Don't Miss Related Puppetry NOW Shows & Events

PERFORMANCE

Noel MacNeal's Hey, This Was Really Fun!

February 5-6, 2027

On stage for 2 nights only! This hit at its New York City debut at 54 Below, Hey, This Was Really Fun! tells the story of Noel MacNeal's life and the lessons he's learned through the iconic characters he has brought to life.

Learn More

WORKSHOPS & CLASSES

Guest Artist Workshop with Noel MacNeal

February 6, 2026

Learn the same puppeteering skills Noel MacNeal learned from Jim Henson himself. Includes a take-home origami puppet.

All-Ages

Learn More

What is Puppetry NOW?

Puppetry NOW is the Center for Puppetry Arts’ initiative to highlight contemporary artists and voices historically underrepresented in puppetry. Launched in 2022, the program brings artists to the Center for short-term residencies that include a solo exhibition, live performances, and educational workshops.

At the end of each exhibition, the Center acquires a piece of the artist’s work for its permanent collection, ensuring their contributions can be enjoyed for generations.

Through Puppetry NOW, we provide space, resources, and support for creative expression and artistic growth. This initiative connects the Center to the evolving state of puppetry while offering audiences bold, innovative work.