ASIFA-Hollywood is presenting Puppet Mania 2000, a gathering of Puppeteers of America's Pacific Southwest Region. The celebration features an international list of puppeteers including Sid Krofft, Velma Dawson of Howdy Doody fame, Ray Harryhausen and the puppeteers behind the scenes of such films and shows as MUPPETS TONIGHT, BEAKMAN'S WORLD, BEING JOHN MALKOVICH, MEN IN BLACK and more. Running until August 19, 2000, the exhibition will showcase puppets from the outstanding collection of Alan Cook as well as many famous TV and film puppets. Events scheduled are: Sid and Marty Krofft and Stars; Tony Urbano and His Marionettes; Puppets, Puppets, Puppets: Tom Jensen The Wizard of Oz - Storybook Puppet Theater; Stravinsky's The Soldier's Tale by Lewis Mahlmann & Company plus Puppet Mania 2K Cabaret; Puppetoon Film Festival with Bob Baker and a Special Appearance by Ray Harryhausen; Kevin Menegus and his Marionettes plus Three Little Kittens: The Mewsical; A Night of Puppet Maniacs; and Eugene Seregin and His Marionettes from Russia Plus Fable of the Fox - Los Titiriteros de Binefar from Spain. Tickets are available by phone or Internet through www.ticketweb.com or (800) 965-4827. Registration for Puppet Mania is required to participate in workshops and late-night events. The exhibition and outdoor performances are free.
