Puppeteria, formerly known as Jeral Puppets, is Australia’s premier commercial puppet company with a rich history dating back to 1966. Founded by Jackie and John Lewis, Puppeteria boasts a vast collection of over 1200 puppet characters and a repertoire of 125 puppet plays, ranging from classics like “The Three Bears” to popular titles such as “Wizard of Oz” and “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.” With a legacy of performing at prestigious venues like the Sydney Opera House and international studios in Singapore and Malaysia, Puppeteria has established itself as a leader in the world of puppetry.
Jackie Lewis, a renowned puppet manipulator and education specialist, along with John Lewis, a talented designer and puppet maker, have collectively delivered over 30,000 live performances, 600 television shows, and numerous commercials over the years. Their dedication to the art of puppetry is evident in their extensive body of work, which includes collaborations with government departments, museums, television networks, and major retailers like David Jones and Grace Bros. Their commitment to excellence has been recognized with accolades such as the 2002 Frater Award and a perfect 10/10 rating from the NSW Department of Education.
Aside from their performances at Puppeteria in Castle Cove, Puppeteria continues to engage audiences through educational shows at museums, preschools, and schools across New South Wales. Their son, Nicholas Lewis, carries on the family tradition by entertaining preschoolers with their captivating puppet shows. In addition to their live performances, Puppeteria also produces “The Happy Health Harold” puppets for the Life Education Center, with over 300 Harold Giraffes created to date. With a commitment to creativity, education, and entertainment, Puppeteria remains a beloved institution in the Australian puppetry scene.