The Science and Psychology of Muppet Design

What makes characters like the Muppets so irresistibly appealing? Let’s get into the science behind the cuteness!

Award-winning character designer and official Muppet Maker Michael Schupbach will join us for a behind the scenes exploration of the fascinating world of puppet design.

Schup will break down the hidden tools and tricks that designers use to create lovable characters. Learn how color, texture, proportion and movement help create emotionally resonant personalities.

About the Presenter:

Michael Schupbach is an Emmy Award-winning character designer and creative technologist who brings expressive characters to life for animation, themed entertainment, and live performance. From Sesame Street and Avenue Q to Jurassic World and Ms. Rachel, Schup’s work spans puppetry, animatronics, robotics, and interactive storytelling, with a focus on creating characters that spark genuine audience connection, both on screen and in the real world.

This free event received funding support from the Friends of the Menlo Park Library.

Monday, June 15, 2026 | 06:00 PM - 07:30 PM
Menlo Park Library, 800 Alma St., Menlo Park, CA

About the Summer Puppetry Festival

We’re presenting our 9th Annual Summer Puppetry Festival! Menlo Park celebrates the art of puppetry in its many forms, with a series of puppet shows and related events featuring beloved performers from throughout the Bay Area and beyond. Drop in for one event, or join us for the entire series.

Performances

| June 28 | Pop & Go Puppets | Belle Haven Library |
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| July 9 | The Puppet Company | Menlo Park Library |
| July 26 | Fratello Marionettes | Belle Haven Library |
| July 30 | Puppet Art Theater | Menlo Park Library |
| Aug. 23 | Possibly Puppets | Belle Haven Library |

Other events

| June 9 | The Science & Psychology of Muppet Design | Menlo Park Library |
| ------ | ----------------------------------------- | ------------------ |
| July 18 | Shadow Puppet Workshop (Ages 8-Adult) | Belle Haven Library |
| Aug. 12 | Meet Mallory Lewis | Zoom |
| Aug. 26 | Film: Shari & Lamb Chop | Menlo Park Library |

More free events with Menlo Park Library

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