Once upon a time, there was a guy, or rather a storyteller, in the old sense of the word, named David Winstein. He lived in Ketchum and ran Space, a performing arts studio, with his friend Erik Gilberg. Over the course of three years, Winstein organized several children's programs, created original works for all ages and was known around the valley for his humor and participation in many events.
Now known by the stage name of David Freleng, he will return to the valley to perform at the Renaissance Faire, Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 26 and 27.
Outfitted as a jester, his duties at the Faire as all-around ringleader will include announcing events such as jousting, as well as theatrical offerings. Director of the Ren Faire, Prue Hemmings, says, "He holds it all together."
While in town, he will also present a unique shadow-puppetry workshop. Designed to have participants create their own shadow-puppet play, the workshops are for children and adults alike. He will join the young rockers from Notes Music Store's School of Rock at the Wicked Spud in Hailey, Friday, Aug. 25, at 5:30 p.m. In between School of Rock sets, his interactive puppetry act will work with participants to conceive and create a narrative that can then be presented using an overhead projector and screen.
Unlike other types of puppets, the shadow puppet itself is never seen in performance, only the effect it creates. The performing shadow puppet is not just a single object of wood or cardboard, but a collection of things working together. It's the puppets' combination with light and a screen that makes its magical effect.
"We create laughter, silliness, and togetherness, while connecting and feeling human," Freleng says. "I've done this with people with Alzheimer's and autistic kids. Everyone gets something out of it."
The puppetry event at the Wicked Spud will be free.
Freleng performs and teaches in Phoenix, Ariz., at the Child's Play Theater in Tempe, Desert Sky Mall, the Phoenix Zoo and the Phoenix Botanical Garden. He was a founding member of Fools for Hire in San Francisco.
