About
Puppeteer who became known as the father of modern puppetry in North America as he rose to prominence in the early 20th century. At the 1933 Chicago World's Fair his cumulative audience reached 3 million.
Before Fame
He grew up around puppets, and inherited his grandmother's collection upon her passing.
Trivia
He designed helium-filled balloons shaped as animals for the 1928 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. He animated the groundbreaking film The First Circus in 1921.
Family Life
His parents' names were Francis and Mary. He became a naturalized US citizen in 1921.
Associated With
His protege and frequent collaborator was Bil Baird.
