Steve Petra trained at the National Theatre of Puppet Arts and at Jim Henson Productions in Manhattan. Since 1990 he has been a professional puppeteer performing his own scripts, songs and music. Before that time he worked as a professional musician. He now specializes in curriculum-based assembly programs for elementary schools.
Our shows combine educational conctent with puppetry, illusions, props, sound effects, music and humor to keep students engaged. This is live theatre on their level. Many students have never seen a ventriloquist show and are fascinated. Our goal is to leave them with an interest in these theatre arts as well as in the subject matter presented.
Steve also performs for family audiences at libraries and some other venues. These shows are like being at a Comedy Club for families. With zany illusions, props, music, audience participation and a cast of outrageous puppet characters.
When he isn't out doing live shows, Steve is working on TV and DVD projects. His first instructional DVD, Let's Get Visual, is selling to performers all over the world. He is now in demand as a lecturer at conferences for professional performers.
PetraPuppets is Steve and his wife Jeanie. Steve performs the shows. Jeanie does the website, database, booking, scheduling, contracts, fliers, teacher's guides, and collaborates on the shows. She'll be happy to take your calls.
Steve has performed at Puppeteers of America festivals and at Puppet Guild of Long Island events. He's a member of The Puppeteers of America, UNIMA, the Puppet Guild of Long Island and The International Ventriloquists Association.
