Matthews Public Library in Fredericksburg has introduced a unique element to its children’s programming, sure to captivate any kid – a custom-crafted puppet theatre.
The puppet theatre stands out for its tree shape. Known as Old Locust Tree Meadow, the tree is home to a handful of lovable characters including Hopkins, the rabbit; Boo, the raccoon; Major, the fox; and Scamp, the mouse.
As the library explained in a press release, the animals of Old Locust Tree Meadow enjoy peace and tranquility most days, but do have a habit of occasional poor decision-making that lands them in sticky predicaments. As you might expect, silliness and laughter often ensue.
The library will continue using its existing Polka Dot City Puppet Theater, which has entertained kids for the last 15 years.
The Old Locust Tree Meadow was hand-crafted by Monkeyboys Productions of Horsham. Monkeyboys Productions has constructed all sorts of props over the years, including for headline acts like Saturday Night Live, the Funny Girl Revival, MST3K, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Live, and the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.
“Many children throughout those years have told us that they love attending the puppet shows we present here,” said Sheila Redcay, library director and main puppeteer, in a press release. “(The new puppet theater) adds a third dimension to storytelling and children love to pretend.”
To visit Old Locust Tree Meadow and catch up with Hopkins, Boo, Major, and Scamp, swing by the Matthews Public Library any Wednesday at 10 a.m.
“No one is ever too old to relax and enjoy a good tale,” the library reminds us. “Remember, your local public library is always here for you, especially if you’ve begun to wonder whether you, your child or your grandchild might be spending too much time staring at a screen.”
Matthews Public Library serves the municipalities of Bethel, East Hanover, Swatara, and Union townships, as well as Jonestown Borough, and is a member of the Lebanon County Library System. It’s located at 102 W. Main St., Fredericksburg.
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