November's Performer of the Month Spotlight - Dan Grady's Marionettes

This month we pay homage to an art form that is becoming a rarity, Marionettes. Here in the east when you think Marionettes one name stands alone - Dan Grady's Marvelous Marionette Medley.

In 2010 Dan will celebrate 30 years of touring the eastern seaboard from Florida to Maine, with his solo production for children and families. To date he has performed in 35 states as well as Canada. He has had the fortune to have performed at the Eastern States Exposition, the Central Canada Exposition, the Fryeburg Fair and the Topsfield Fair to name a few. He regularly performs at fairs, festivals, libraries, schools, performing arts centers, art shows, and corporate events.

Dan was born and raised in the Manchester, New Hampshire area and now resides in southern Maine. He is a graduate of both the University of New Hampshire as well as Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Clown College!

Not only does Dan manipulate the marionettes but he also designs and builds them, he also writes the lyrics for the music that accompanies his performance. The show is a fast paced string puppet production that is comprised of routines that have that special something to tantalize, captive and enchant all those who attend. One only has to see the bright, wondering eyes of a toddler enthralled in Dan's show to relive the simpler, magical times of our own childhood.

The broad range of acts in his show include tightrope and trapeze artistry of the Eadarg Brothers, to the country western crooning and strumming of the superstar, Conway Kitty. They are not to be outdone by the incomparable, slick moving, Roller Skating Rabbit.

Dan can perform on your stage or he does have his own stage available. Dan is by no means confined to the stage however, he and his marionettes often enjoy a stroll off stage during the show to meet and perform for the audience up close and personal.

We would recommend Dan's show to anyone looking to entertain young children, parents and grandparents. He is a perfect addition to any performing arts events and festivals, museums, libraries, fairs and festivals.