The Story Behind Storybook Puppet Theater
And Paul Fantini, Artistic Director
- Once upon a time…
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- Within a parent support group called Mothers and More, Storybook Puppet Theater founder Paul Fantini was asked to organize the children’s annual Halloween Party during the Fall of 2005. After a short time researching possible entertainment, he finally decided to put together a puppet show for the children. Adapting a fairytale for the play, crafting the puppets, and performing the show became his personal symposium of talent. The performance was so well received that a vision for Storybook Puppet Theater quickly materialized.
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- Paul Fantini, the principal puppeteer and artistic director for SPT, began performing in community theater as a teenager and continued throughout high school. His formative years in theater were spent at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City. During his undergraduate studies at Hofstra University, Paul participated in many campus performing arts groups.
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- After completing a BA in History, he decided to continue with the performing arts in a much different role. He served as the box office manager at the Union County Arts Center (Rahway, NJ) where he donned many hats, from usher to development associate. He would later plan and execute the entire marketing and public relations plan for the organization. Most recently he served as communications manager for the State Theatre (New Brunswick, NJ).
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- His time at the State Theatre ended with the birth of his son. Together with his wife, the decision was made that Paul would become the primary caregiver for his newborn son. Being a stay-at-home parent changed everything (and how partner!) As he delved into his new work he was surprised as anyone that this role would become an avenue to start performing again. After joining Mothers and More, a national organization dedicated to improving the lives of mothers through advocacy, education, and support, Paul found a new peer group and new inspiration. He wishes to thank all the members (that includes two other stay-at-home dads in the group) of Union County Chapter 10 for allowing him to become a part of the organization and helping him to become a better parent. If you would like to check out Mothers and More for yourself, go to www.mothersandmore.org.
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- Storybook Puppet Theater is also a member of the Garden State Puppetry Guild and the Puppeteers of America.
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