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Cape Cod is full of storytellers, and Mary Wilson’s stories come to life through the voices of her puppets, the laughter of audiences, and the lessons of nature itself. In this Those Who Love the Cape feature, Mary shares how creativity, connection, and the beauty of the Cape have shaped her journey, along with how one of Cape Cod’s beloved, wise old-timers brings so much joy to so many.
So, yes, I would say Mary is wise – but I obviously wouldn’t call her an old-timer! I was referring to, of course, her sidekick and close friend: Grandma. She is wise, yes - but also a bit of a wise-cracker. Grandma is pure fun, well-loved by children, and always well-behaved (at least when she wants to be).
I had the joy of watching Mary, Grandma, and the musical genius Paul Kehoe perform together as Puppets, Paul & Mary this summer at the Cape Rep Theater in Brewster. They have a residence there every year, and this show was one of the most enjoyable days I spent all season - full of music, laughter, and smiles from start to finish.
Here are Mary and Grandma delighting the audience by bringing the show right to their seats.
After her performance, a pooped Grandma relaxes in the theater seats waiting to take part in a rehearsal for the upcoming show, All Our Best.
I’m so happy to introduce you to the brilliance behind Grandma, and the many other puppets Mary brings to life in the most magical of ways. In her own words:
Let’s start with your story – can you introduce yourself and tell us a little about what you do? My name is Mary Wilson. I am what they call a “wash-a-shore.” I am originally from Florida but have lived much of my life here on Cape Cod. I met and married my husband in Falmouth and raised our daughter in Centerville. I work as an Early Childhood, Parent Educator and Professional Educator. I am also a professional puppeteer and perform all over Cape Cod and Massachusetts
Does your work or passion intersect with Cape Cod’s natural beauty, community, or history - and if so, how? We live in a unique eco system here on Cape Cod. My passion for education and puppets intersects with my love of nature in my performances. Using puppets to entertain and educate is what I love to do most. It brings people of all ages together and shares a message of acceptance, joy, and the responsibility of stewardship for each other and the natural world around us.
What does Cape Cod mean to you personally? Cape Cod represents community, nature’s playground and roots of choice.
Why did you choose this particular t-shirt? My puppet, “Grandma,” really wanted a t-shirt that she could proudly wear as she travels all over Cape Cod to do her show “Puppets on the Pavement” interviewing visitors to Cape Cod about their experiences and local business owners about their businesses. I chose the water bottle for the design, functionality and eco-friendly sustainable use.
Do you have any favorite local businesses, artists, or causes you’d like to shout out? I would like to do a shout out to the Cape Rep Theater in Brewster. They welcomed me into the performance artist fold about 20 years ago. I have evolved as an artist with their support and have entertained hundreds of families since then. I have performed as Pitter Patter Puppets, and more recently as “Puppets, Paul & Mary” with my musical partner Paul Kehoe.
What’s something about Cape Cod you’d want others to experience - something that never gets old for you? Being surrounded by the unique natural beauty of Cape Cod never gets old for me. Whether it is on a beach watching a sunset, on a whale watch seeing whales breeching, hiking the many nature trails, riding bikes along the Cape Cod Canal, or watching live theater outdoors, I always feel there is no place like home-no place like Cape Cod.
What are you most excited about right now - personally or professionally? I am most excited about all the new concepts for shows and collaborations happening with my musical partner Paul and local organizations. Our creative opportunities are expanding, and we are working on some fun projects.
Where can people learn more about you or support what you do?
My website is www.pitterpatterpuppets.com
There is a link to “Puppets, Paul & Mary”
Facebook: PitterPatterPuppets
💙 Thank you, Mary, for bringing Grandma to life, for generating smiles and laughter all summer long, and sharing your love for Cape Cod. If her story inspired you, feel free to leave a comment below or share this post with someone who could use a little Cape Cod magic today.
PS...is there a special someone with a birthday coming up? Retirement? Anniversary? Here's a super fun and unique way to celebrate - send a Puppetgram! Grandma is a popular choice for the adults - plus several others for the children. Watch Grandma's intro HERE.
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