Welcome to The Animal Thespian Society in the lost violet forest
The Animal Thespian Society is a place where handcrafted heirloom animal puppets step out of the Lost Violet Forest, bringing with them the spirit of friendship, imagination, and the nearly forgotten tradition of a woodland theater of traveling performers.
Within the Lost Violet Forest, curiosity is celebrated, kindness is quietly courageous, and friendships often grow in the most unexpected places. As young animals discover one another beyond the familiar boundaries of their own kind, they create stories, performances, and traditions that remind us that imagination has the power to build connection, inspire compassion, and awaken a sense of belonging.
Every character is individually designed, sculpted, needle felted, and lovingly costumed by hand in my Colorado studio using thoughtfully sourced natural fibers, carefully curated fabrics, vintage and contemporary trims and findings, and traditional techniques. No two are ever exactly alike. Each one is created to become a treasured companion for storytelling, imaginative play, family traditions, and the memories that grow from sharing stories together.
The shop features a growing collection of handcrafted finger puppets, hand and rod puppets, and delightful push-up puppets featuring the tiniest thespians and performers of the Lost Violet Forest, with needle-felting kits and instruction for children and adults coming soon. While many of the forest's residents arrive with stories already beginning to unfold, the hand and rod puppet collection offers a more personal adventure. Together, we'll create a one-of-a-kind character inspired by your imagination, thoughtfully handcrafted to become a cherished companion for storytelling, creative play, and years of memorable adventures. An illustrated chapter book series, now in development, will reveal the history of the Lost Violet Forest and the beloved characters who call it home, while inviting children to continue the stories through their own open-ended play.
At the heart of every character is the belief that open-ended imaginative play is one of childhood's greatest gifts. As children invent characters, solve problems, create stories, and explore new possibilities, they develop creativity, empathy, confidence, and flexible thinking—skills that continue to grow throughout their lives. In a world where digital experiences occupy an ever-larger place in childhood, The Animal Thespian Society offers families another path: one that invites children to slow down, wonder, create, and become active participants in the stories they tell. The most memorable stories aren't simply told—they're lived, shared, and lovingly re-imagined, one adventure at a time.
We hope you'll come along and join us in the Lost Violet Forest, where imagination is the thread that mends the world.
