WEST PALM BEACH -- For over 17 years, the Puppetry Arts Center of the Palm Beaches has brought entertainment and laughter to almost 20 thousand children a year. But today, the center took its "final bow" at its Palm Beach Mall location.
Elaine Barber and her son have been coming to the shows at the Center for 6 years.
"It's such a wonderful thing, and for puppets to be this close, in South Florida. I would hate for this to go away."
But go away it will, for now at least, all because the Palm Beach Mall, the center's current home for the past year, is closing for good. Executive Director Jan Timmis remains hopeful.
"All we need is an empty building, and we can make it into a theater."
Jan, her husband, and some volunteers have already done it once, turning a mere storefront into a magical place full of smiles and song. And that is the reason why Jan will continue to fight to keep these beloved characters in West Palm Beach.
"When you see the faces of these kids and the enjoyment they get out of it, this is their theatre."
Jan hopes that they can find a new home and some generous support to help establish a permanent musuem, store, and theater, and she's is receiving alot of support. Karen Modell has brought her granddaughters to the Center many times, not only for shows, but for workshops as well.
"Hopefully they'll find a new location pretty soon because it's the kind of fun every family's looking for."
But with great sadness, the center Saturday gave its final performance at their West Palm location, and will officially close its doors January 31st, becoming just another vacant spot in the Palm Beach Mall.
If you would like to help keep these beloved characters here by donating or volunteering, go to
http://www.puppetcenter.org/ for information.
