Shadow Streak
Zombie and Goddesses Untold History of Puppetry!
Shadow Streak Productions
Nina Oberlin is a storyteller‑adventurer whose puppetry is rooted in emotion, movement, and the quiet discoveries that happen when characters come alive. Her work blends delicate craftsmanship with bold theatricality, creating performances that feel both intimate and expansive. Nina’s puppets often carry a sense of mystery — as if they’ve wandered in from another world with secrets to share. Whether she’s devising new performance techniques, sculpting expressive figures, or guiding emerging artists, Nina brings a spirit of exploration to everything she touches. Her artistry invites audiences to lean in, look closer, and uncover the hidden stories waiting beneath the surface.
Zombies and Goddesses and the Untold History of Puppetry
In a lively puppet show, Nina introduces Melvin, the emcee, who is reluctant to speak and initially communicates through grunts. After some coaxing, Melvin finally begins to discuss the history of puppetry, humorously noting its ancient roots. As Melvin explores its global presence, Athena, the Greek Goddess, interrupts, claiming that puppetry originated in Greece. Soon after, Hathor, the Egyptian Goddess, asserts that Egypt has the oldest puppetry traditions, presenting evidence of ancient puppets to support her claim. A humorous back-and-forth ensues between Athena and Hathor as they argue about which culture can lay claim to being the oldest in puppetry.
Melvin steps in, suggesting they collaborate to share the global history of puppetry instead of arguing. The two goddesses agree, and the trio begins to work together. Melvin lists various countries known for their puppetry, including Greece and Egypt, as well as other nations around the world. The performance highlights the universal appeal of puppetry, showcasing its diverse styles and cultural significance across different regions. Ultimately, the show emphasizes that puppetry is a shared art form that transcends borders and is embedded in the history of many civilizations.