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The True Story Of The Puppeteer Of Macy's Parade Bank Street College Of Education

Christian Barnes

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Published in Balloons Over Broadway: The True Story Of The Puppeteer Of Macy S Parade (Bank Street College Of Education Flora Stieglitz Straus Award (Awards))

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A Magical Journey into the World of Tony Sarg and the Beloved Balloons

Every year, millions of people gather in New York City to witness the spectacle of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. But beyond the dazzling floats, marching bands, and celebrities, there's a hidden world of artistry that brings these beloved characters to life. At the heart of this enchanting experience lies the puppeteer of Macy's Parade Bank Street College of Education.

In the annals of parade history, no name shines brighter than that of Tony Sarg, the visionary artist who revolutionized the art of puppetry. Born in Guatemala in 1880, Sarg immigrated to the United States as a young man and quickly established himself as a master of his craft. His whimsical creations graced Broadway stages, animated films, and even the covers of The New Yorker magazine.

Balloons Over Broadway: The True Story of the Puppeteer of Macy's Parade (Bank Street College of Education Flora Stieglitz Straus Award (Awards))

by Melissa Sweet

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9451 KB
Print length	:	40 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

In 1927, Sarg was approached by Macy's to create a series of marionettes for the department store's annual Thanksgiving Day parade. His first creation was a giant Felix the Cat balloon, which soared above the crowds and captured the hearts of the nation. Over the years, Sarg and his team of skilled puppeteers would go on to create countless other iconic characters, including Snoopy, Snoopy, Woody Woodpecker, and Kermit the Frog.

Today, the legacy of Tony Sarg lives on through the puppeteers of Macy's Parade Bank Street College of Education. These skilled artisans continue to bring Sarg's creations to life, ensuring that the magic of the parade continues to enchant generations of children and adults alike.

Behind the Scenes of the Macy's Parade

To get a glimpse into the fascinating world of the Macy's Parade puppeteers, we spoke with Catherine, a veteran puppeteer who has been working on the parade for over 20 years.

"It's an incredible honor to be part of this tradition," Catherine said. "The parade is a symbol of American joy and creativity, and we're so proud to be a part of it."

Catherine explained that the process of preparing for the parade begins months in advance. "We start by designing and building the puppets," she said. "Each puppet is unique, and we take great care to make sure that they're as authentic as possible."

Once the puppets are complete, the puppeteers begin rehearsing their movements. "It's a lot of hard work," Catherine said, "but it's also a lot of fun. We have a great team, and we work together to make sure that everything goes smoothly on parade day."

The Magic of the Parade

On Thanksgiving Day, the puppeteers gather at the Macy's Parade Studio to prepare for the big day. They carefully load the puppets onto floats and make sure that everything is in Free Download.

As the parade begins, the puppeteers take their places along the route. They use a combination of strings, rods, and levers to control the puppets' movements. "It's a delicate balance," Catherine said. "We want the puppets to look as natural as possible, but we also need to make sure that they're safe."

The puppeteers work tirelessly throughout the parade, bringing joy to millions of people. "It's an amazing feeling," Catherine said. "To see the smiles on the faces of the children, and to know that we're a part of their holiday memories, is truly special."

The Legacy of Tony Sarg

Tony Sarg's legacy extends far beyond the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. He was a pioneer in the field of puppetry, and his work has inspired generations of artists. Today, his puppets can be found in museums and collections around the world.

The puppeteers of Macy's Parade Bank Street College of Education are proud to carry on Sarg's tradition. They are the guardians of his legacy, and they ensure that the magic of the parade continues to enchant audiences for generations to come.

So, as you watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade this year, take a moment to appreciate the incredible artistry of the puppeteers. They are the unsung heroes of the parade, and they deserve our thanks for bringing joy to millions of people around the world.