About This Artist
Penny Russell/Penny’s Puppets
Art Form(s)
TheatreAbout this Artist
Pronouns: she/her
Penny Russell is a Puppeteer, Musician, and Teaching Artist based in Prince George’s County, MD. She is a Master Teaching Artist with Wolf Trap Institute for Early Learning Through the Arts; and teaches Music, Drama, Puppetry, and Self-Advocacy through the Arts to children and adults on the autism spectrum for ArtStream. She performs as Penny’s Puppets for The Puppet Company’s Tiny Tots first-exposure theater. She studied Folklore and Mythology at the University of Maryland, College Park where she received degrees in Sociology and English. She has presented workshops for the National Science Teachers Convention, Wolf Trap, The Kennedy Center, The Actor’s Center, and schools across the country. Penny loves connecting and communicating through the arts; and believes that the arts are for everyone.
Artist Statement
After years as a musician and actor, I found my passion in puppetry. I love the humor, creativity and humanity found in the medium of puppetry. I also love sharing the artform with others. As a teaching artist, I strive for accessibility. I love connecting and communication through the arts; and I believe the arts are for everyone.
Testimonials
"Just wanted to take a minute to say thank you for a great week! My class and I really enjoyed your lessons! You are awesome! There are so many ideas going through my head! You are an inspiration!"
- PreK teacher CCPS
Out of all my residencies, Mrs. Penny stands out. She really showed her love for including the arts, was so accommodating to my student's and their special needs, and just very warm and excited to be in my room. She really impressed me with her use of picture cards and her planning to compliment my classroom and students. I seriously could not have asked for a better teacher, for my students or myself.
- Early Childhood Classroom Teacher
"Thank you to Ms. Penny, who we love working with. Her enthusiasm and support is contagious and we very much enjoy collaborating with her as a first grade team!"
- First Grade Team LCPS