When asked to describe puppet act, “Milo the Magnificent,” along with the duo behind the magic, Alex & Olmsted (Alex Vernon and Sarah Olmsted Thomas), artist director for the Columbia Marionette Theater, Lyon Hill, captures the moment with three enchanting words: Charming, uplifting and playful.
“Milo the Magnificent” is a puppet performance starring an aspiring magician, Milo. While Milo never uses dialogue, he consistently shows emotion throughout the production in the form of expression, engaging the audience without the use of language. Alex & Olmsted, the duo behind the production, bring a unique spin to their use of innovative puppetry, according to Hill:
“Their work features a unique style of puppetry that draws from animation and cartooning. The character Milo never speaks, but expresses a wide variety of emotion through interchangeable facial expressions. At CMT (Columbia Marionette Theater), we like to showcase inventive puppetry, so I was keen to bring them to Columbia.”
That’s right! This one-of-a-kind production, “Milo the Magnificent,” will be featured in Columbia at CMT, one of only two guest artist brought to CMT per year. As a show for all ages, this is one to bring amusement, entertainment and excitement to all.
The production will run on Friday, November 16th at 7 p.m. and Saturday, November 17th at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Ticket cost is $5 per guest, ages 2 and up.
The Friday evening performance is a unique one, as CMT typically does not put on evening productions; however, Milo the Magnificent will run one time on Friday evening, giving guest the opportunity to experience the show in all its glory. A true, magical experience.
“The Friday evening show performance in an opportunity to see the show in a slightly different setting,” Hill says of the 7:00 p.m. production, “The theater darkens a bit more, there are no birthday parties, it gives the artist a chance to really shine.”
As for Hill’s personal favorite aspect of the performance: “It is a well realized production. The music, humor and style all merge perfectly.”
Come see for yourself!
To experience Milo and his magic, grab those close to you and come out to Columbia Marionette Theater this weekend to get a taste of Alex & Olmsted’s, “Milo the Magnificent,” and all of the unique and fun entertainment that this production has to offer!
For more information on the duo behind the act, visit: www.alexandolmsted.com
—Hallie Hayes