GREAT EXPECTATIONS to Play Center for Puppetry Arts, 2/25-3/2

Great Expectations by Simpich Marionettes of Colorado Springs, Colo., will run at Center for Puppetry Arts, February 25-March 2, 2014.

This one-man tour de force presents puppeteer David Simpich as Charles Dickens as he brings to life the colorful array of characters from the 1861 literary masterpiece. Using a full cast of hand-carved marionettes, the story follows young Philip "Pip" Pirrip through his youthful misadventures in the English countryside and his eventual rise to wealth in London.

For more information about Simpich Marionettes, visit www.simpich.com/theatre.html.

The show runs February 25 - March 2, 2014 (One Week ONLY), playing Tuesday - Thursday: 10:30 a.m.; Friday - Saturday: 8 p.m. and Sunday: 5 p.m. at Center for Puppetry Arts, 1404 Spring Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30309. Tickets are $15 (Members) and $25 (Nonmembers) and include the performance and museum admission. Buy tickets at WWW.PUPPET.ORG or call 404-873-3391.

The Friday, Feb. 28, performance includes a post-show talkback with the artist. Part of the Center's New Direction Series for Adults and Teens, this performance is recommended for ages 12 and up. A beer/wine bar is open during evening performances. For more information, call 404-873-3391 or visit www.puppet.org/perform/greatexpectations.shtml.

Center for Puppetry Arts is a unique cultural treasure - a magical place where children and adults are educated, enlightened, and entertained. Since 1978, the Center has introduced millions of visitors to the wonder and art of puppetry and has touched the lives of many through enchanting performances, curriculum-based workshops, and the hands-on Museum as well as Distance Learning and Outreach programs. Center for Puppetry Arts is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization and is supported in part by contributions from corporations, foundations, government agencies, and individuals. Major funding is provided by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners under the guidance of the Fulton County Arts Council. Major support is also provided by the City of Atlanta Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs. The Center is a member of Theatre Communications Group (TCG), the national organization for the American theatre; Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA/USA/ASSITEJ); and International Performing Arts for Youth (IPAY).The Center also serves as headquarters of UNIMA-USA, the American branch of Union Internationale de la Marionnette, the international puppetry organization.

Photo by Simpich Marionettes.