Ralph Lee Retrospective 2023

The Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry in Storrs, CT presented the new exhibition Myths, Legends, and Spectacle: Masks and Puppets of Ralph Lee on view January 26 through July 9, 2023.

For over 60 years, Ralph Lee created masks and puppets for wide-ranging theater and dance projects and public celebrations that highlight vital elements of the creatures, characters, demons or deities performed. This exhibit featured a variety of masks, puppets, and giant figures from Ralph Lee’s robust career as Artistic Director of the Mettawee River Theatre Company, as well as collaborations with dance and theater companies, such as the Erick Hawkins Dance Company, The Repertory Theatre of Lincoln Center, and Jean Erdman’s Theater of the Open Eye. The exhibit included masks and giant figures that appeared in the Greenwich Village Halloween Parade, co-founded and directed by Ralph Lee for its first 12 years. Throughout his work there are many references to times gone by, as well as expressions of our essential connection with the natural world.

More information available on the museum’s website and Facebook page.

Watch the recording of the exhibit’s opening here!

Slideshow