We’re excited to welcome Rachel to the Puppet Showplace team in the brand new position of Development Coordinator! Rachel will be helping us launch campaigns to support our 5-year vision and will work closely with our vibrant community of members, donors, and volunteers. Recently, we sat down to ask her a few questions about her background, interests, and inspirations.
Q: How did you come to work for a puppet theater?
A: I’m a project manager by day and improv comedian by night. As a performing artist myself, I’ve always been drawn to working in theater. Being a comedian, specifically, I’m also drawn to a fun atmosphere. After years of working for a large-scale healthcare technology company, I wanted to combine my administrative skills with my passion for the performing arts. When I saw the opening for this role, I knew I had to apply. I still can’t help but smile every time I walk into the building or talk about this organization - and for that, I’m very grateful.
Q: What are your superpowers?
A: I’m going to say the power of “Yes, and!” I’ve found that the positive and productive “Yes, and!” philosophy used in improv comedy is useful in work and life as well as on the stage. I’ve honed this superpower performing improv for about 11 years (7 years professionally in Boston). In my performances, I work with others to build a live show on the spot without a script. As improvisers, we have to be open and honest about what inspires us while supporting choices that come from anyone on the team. It’s also super fun. I’m looking forward to getting people excited to say “yes!” to the many great initiatives underway at Puppet Showplace, and to listening for ways that our team can support and build on initiatives that come from our community. And of course...I’m excited about leveling up in Sarah Nolen’s Puppet Improv class!
Q: Why do you care about funding for arts in Boston?
A: To me, it’s not just about providing entertainment, but about supporting the shared experience of seeing live theater. Art teaches us all so much--it creates connections and sparks conversations. We need to ensure we sustain that sort of creative education for our communities. Boston is full of talented artists and opportunities to experience art. It’s very important to me that we do everything we can to fund innovative productions and programs, not only for artists to thrive in their creative careers, but for people of all ages and backgrounds to be able to access all of the enriching art Boston has to offer.
Q: What inspires you about PST?
A: Wow, where do I start? First, I was instantly drawn to the history behind this organization, starting with the beautiful, historic space that is 32 Station Street. There’s a special feeling when you walk through this building, knowing it houses 45 years’ worth of stories and memories. Mary Churchill founded this organization in 1974 and it remains a treasured part of this community because of generous support from individual donors, local businesses, and foundation and government grants.
Then, there are the people. I love hearing stories of how folks first discovered Puppet Showplace and what keeps them coming back week after week, and year after year. Seeing the joy that Puppet Showplace brings our patrons and supporters of all ages - as well as our passionate and dedicated staff - motivates me day-to-day.
Finally, there’s the art of puppetry itself. I feel like most of us, when we think of puppets, can picture a handmade character we’ve encountered at some point in our lives. Learning the history behind this amazing art form, seeing the work that goes into a production, and witnessing puppetry’s impact on the audiences and the community is quite inspirational. Through puppetry, there are so many ways a story can be told, and so many ways to engage an audience!
I continue to be blown away by the performances, from the hilarious and unique pieces at the Puppet Showplace Slam, to the magnificent mainstage shows. I’m learning something new every day, and can’t wait to see what the future holds!
Want to learn more about opportunities to support Puppet Showplace Theater, or have ideas for a future campaign? Contact Rachel at development@puppetshowplace.org.
Rachel’s first day selfie with Elvis Frostley. Puppet created by Jon Little, Little’s Creatures.
