Bread and Puppet Theater Continues to Promote Social Change through Performance
The Bread and Puppet Theater, a renowned radical political performance troupe, has been touring the United States with its annual Fall Circus for over 50 years. Founded in 1963 by Peter Schumann, the theater's mission remains unchanged: to "make the revolution irresistible." This year's show, "Our Domestic Resurrection Revolution In Progress," features giant puppets and performances that critique U.S. foreign policy and social inequality.
The troupe of 15 performers, including Abril Barajas, a 30-year-old puppeteer, has traveled to 33 cities across the country, bringing their unique brand of activism through art to diverse audiences. "We're not just entertaining; we're trying to make people think about the world in a different way," Barajas said in an interview.
The Bread and Puppet Theater's performances often evoke a sense of nostalgia for the anti-war protests of the 1960s and 1970s, when giant white birds on rods soared above marchers against U.S. military actions in Vietnam, Central America, and Iraq. The troupe's use of giant puppets and paper mache heads has become iconic, symbolizing the power of art to challenge societal norms.
The theater's annual Fall Circus is a staple of radical political performance, with its message of social change resonating globally. "We're not just an American phenomenon; we have a global audience," said Schumann in a statement. "Our work is about creating a sense of community and solidarity among people from different backgrounds."
In addition to its U.S. tour, the Bread and Puppet Theater has performed in various international festivals, including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland and the Festival d'Avignon in France. The troupe's performances have also been featured on television programs such as "The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon" and "Saturday Night Live."
As the Bread and Puppet Theater continues to tour the United States, its message of social change remains relevant in today's globalized world. With its unique blend of art and activism, the theater serves as a reminder that performance can be a powerful tool for promoting social justice.
The troupe will conclude its U.S. tour on November 15, with performances scheduled in several cities across the country. After completing the Fall Circus, the Bread and Puppet Theater will embark on an international tour, taking its message of social change to audiences around the world.
*Reporting by Npr.*
