Performance Introduction

In l967 Gary Jones began his professional life as a puppet artist in Chicago as the scenic designer of the world famous Kungsholm Miniature Grand Opera.

Jones’ unusual talents were immediately praised through his imaginative productions of The King & I, Porgy & Bess, Gypsy, and Bizet’s Carmen.

In l975 he founded his own company, The Blackstreet USA Puppet Theatre which presents “Gary Jones & The YUPPETS” (Young Urban Professional Puppets).

Since then he has handcrafted hundreds of puppets, trained several aspirants in his unique performance technique

and witnessed his work applauded by both national and international audiences.

Box office attendance records were broken for his residencies at The Smithsonian Institution, Division of Performing Arts in the 80’s.

Over the years Jones has created an original and eclectic repertoire suited for both adults and young people with a cutting edge focus on dance.

He has been the recipient of numerous grants and awards including “The Crystal Castle” from the Walt Disney Corporation for his outstanding work with children.

His work has been written about in countless reviews and newspaper articles.

In l998 People Magazine profiled his unique efforts integrating art and the educational experience illuminating such controversial topics

as AIDS, conflict resolution, drugs, and self esteem.

Jones harbors a very deep concern for senior citizens and has volunteered countless performances in convalescent homes in Los Angeles.

Gary has said that, “art speaks directly to our souls...it is from this place that we can begin again in joy”.