Karen Konnerth

Karen Konnerth works full time as CALLIOPE PUPPETS, based for over twenty years in New Orleans, Louisiana, touring regionally, nationally, and internationally, presenting over 200 shows annually in schools, libraries, theaters, and festivals. Karen writes or adapts stories often rooted in folk lore and mythology, designs and builds puppets in a variety of styles, and performs live shows for children and families, working either solo, or with accompanying musician. She believes that the ancient art form of puppetry holds as much power in today's world as it did thousands of years ago, and works to promote puppetry through performances, workshops, and community work. Karen also offers workshops and residencies for children and adults focused on active learning through puppetry. Recipient of a Louisiana Division of the Arts Fellowship, as well as several state grants, Karen Konnerth has been a Louisiana State Roster Artist since 1985 and has presented teacher workshops at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. as part of the Artists As Educators series, as well as abroad for the U. S. State Department. Karen has also served as children's Program Coordinator for the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival since 1980.