A Fairy Tale Comes to Life: Puss in Boots at The Murray Theatre

“Once upon a time…”

“Gallaguzimbi!”

And of course “Happily ever after.”

On Thu, Feb 12 at 9:45am, 107 students from two traditional schools and two homeschool groups filled The Murray Theatre at Ruth Eckerd Hall for a magical morning performance of Puss in Boots by Bits N Pieces Puppet Theatre. Designed for Grades Pre-K through 3, this Schooltime Series performance brought the beloved fairytale to life through vibrant puppetry, music, and storytelling.

From the moment the curtain rose, students were transported into a world of clever cats, royal adventures, and imaginative fun. The production highlighted themes of honesty, history, and classic fairytale tradition, while introducing young audiences to the artistry of puppetry as a unique form of theatrical expression.

Beyond the laughter and wide-eyed wonder, the morning also served as an important introduction to live theater etiquette. Students practiced being respectful audience members; listening carefully, responding appropriately, and engaging with the performers in meaningful ways. For many, this may have been their very first theater experience, making it a special milestone in their arts education journey.

The storytelling extended beyond the stage. After the show, students received a take-home puppet activity, encouraging them to color, create, and craft their own characters. The activity reinforced lessons in literature, performing arts, and visual arts.

At The Murray Theatre, fairytales don’t just end with “happily ever after.” They spark imagination, nurture creativity, and inspire the next generation of storytellers.

For more information on the Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts SchoolTime Series, please visit here.