WEST LIBERTY, Iowa — The Eulenspiegel Puppet Theatre Co. is turning 50 years old and wants you to help celebrate the milestone.
The theatre started as a traveling puppet troupe in 1974 before becoming a nonprofit in 1989. It's spent decades at its West Liberty location, providing puppet shows and education to people of all ages.
A special Birthday Happy Hour will wrap up the theatre's anniversary celebrations. The public is invited to the theatre at 319 N Calhoun St in West Liberty from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, October 17.
The happy hour will feature champagne, sparkling juice, snacks, and a video recording of a vintage Eulenspiegel show.
You're also encouraged to post a memory of Eulenspiegel on the group's Facebook page, here.
Over the years, Eulenspiegel Puppeteers have performed in 31 states and multiple foreign countries. The theatre is known for witty scripts, soft-sculpted and hand-dyed scenery and its original puppet designs.
Founding member, Monica Leo, joined The Current on News 8 to talk about the theatre's legacy and future. She says she hopes the next 50 years will be filled with even more visitors, especially younger people, as they dive into the love of puppetry art.
Rather than sports, that can take a toll on one's body, Leo says puppeteering is something people can enjoy at all ages can enjoy for decades.
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