Madcap puppets tout reading program

By EARTHA TERRELL

eterrell@vindy.com

Kids and adults watched the tale of Rumpelstiltskin come to life during the Madcap puppet Show at the Boardman library June 18.

“This is our annual summer vacation program that starts in the summer to help kids stay interested in reading when school is out. Madcap is our kick-off program this year. We brought them back by popular demand,” said Director of Communication Services Janet Loew.

Madcap performers Jon Kovach and Danielle Muething transformed themselves into many characters throughout the play as they recounted the tale of Rumpelstiltskin. They wore large body and hand puppets as they sang and danced. Children appreciated the humor used throughout the event and bellows of laughter filled the Boardman library meeting room.

“I liked when she [Muething] threw the bags of straw and it hit him [Kovach] during the show,” said Gianna Delucia.

Kovach and Muething kept the audience engaged by intertwining wit and audience participation.

“It’s a wonderful program and the kids were involved and integrated very well,” said parent Dawn Fleming.

There was also an opportunity for questions after the play. Children were amazed as they got a behind-the-scenes look at how Madcap puppets were constructed and worn. The event not only provided more awareness to what the library has to offer throughout the summer, but also inspired children to read more.

“Madcap ties in a play about a book and we hope that this will make kids interested in books,” Loew said.