Sandglass Theater in Putney, Vermont, is hosting its 12th edition of Puppets in the Green Mountains (PGM), the longest-running international puppet festival in the U.S., inspired by the creative vision of founders Eric and Ines Zeller Bass. Established in 1982 in Germany, the festival aims to promote puppetry, a less recognized tradition in the U.S. The current theme, "Just Around the Bend," showcases puppeteers from various countries, including Canada, Germany, Spain, and Iceland.

Featured performances include "Things Easily Forgotten" by Xavier Bobés, who uses everyday objects to narrate Spain’s 20th-century history, and "Free as a Robot" by Alice Therese Gottschalk, which involves marionettes with robotic elements inviting audience participation. "Road of Useless Splendor," presented by Maskhunt Motions and Deborah Hunt, unfolds a whimsical tale through pop-up pages animated by unique characters.

In addition to live shows at seven venues, the festival includes a screening of the 2004 film Strings, a sci-fi/fantasy puppet production from several European countries, featuring insightful behind-the-scenes commentary from its lead puppeteer, Bernd Ogrodnik.

Artistic director Shoshana Bass emphasizes the festival’s inclusivity, offering performances with a range of themes suitable for audiences of all ages. Ultimately, PGM reflects Sandglass Theater’s commitment to nurturing and sharing the art of puppetry within the community and beyond.