Things people have said about Deborah's Puppetry
From Sesame Street:
Martin Robinson with Telly Monster
"I LOVED your show! (A Woodland Cinderella) It was one of the finest I have seen in years. It was expertly acted, beautifully presented, and very very funny."
-Martin P. Robinson: performer of Snuffleupagus and Telly on Sesame Street, 9/8/12.
-Martin P. Robinson: performer of Snuffleupagus and Telly on Sesame Street, 9/8/12.
"Turtle's Wetland Quest" May 25, 2016
"It was really really really good; This is just what we are looking for! It has everything!; the story, the content; all about the ecosystem-- and the children grades K-3 were totally engaged. This certainly exceeded my expectations!"
Dr. Rudy Moseley, Principal of the Times Squared STEM Academy in Providence
"Turtle's Wetland Quest" April 3, 2017
"The best I've seen."
Sister Barbara Beauchamp, Director , Notre Dame Montessori Children's Class Wenham MA.
"Thank you for raising it up; not dumbing it down"
-Sister Susan Raymo, teacher , Notre Dame Montessori Childrens Class
"Turtle's Wetland Quest" February 18, 2015
Your presentation at Boyden Library yesterday was a huge success.
I was so pleased with the wonderful turnout and the interest and response of all those who attended on such a wintry day! The children were mesmerized by all the characters you brought to life, as were the adults! In this age of video games and action programs, it was so amazing and reassuring to witness how involved the audience was with your “live” and lively production.
Of course, it was a testament to your special skills as an entertainer and educator! What an outstanding talent you have! Your creativity and abilities are beyond awesome. I cannot begin to imagine how you bring five different personalities to life, keeping their voices distinctly recognizable and so suitable to their natures, while at the same time manipulating their movements appropriately!
Thank you so much for providing a delightful bright spot for so many and for doing it in an exceedingly uplifting way!
With appreciation and high regard,
Janet Haynes, former trustee, Boyden Library Foxboro MA.
"Turtle's Wetland Quest" April, 2014
“Seeing your presentation was discovering a gem - I knew from Stacey, the city-wide arts Coordinator, that you would be wonderful - I did not expect the seasoned professionalism ...and all who watched left with a bit of your magic that day...”
Elizabeth Hall, Enrichment Coordinator, Zervas School, Newton MA.
"Turtle's Wetland Quest" was EXCELLENT. EXCELLENT! The best I've seen!"
Mr. Rene´ Laubach, Director, Berkshire Wildlife Sanctuaries. Massachusetts Audubon Society
"Turtle's Wetland Quest"
What a wonderful performance. ("Turtle's New Home") We would like to have you back next year again. We all agreed it was fabulous!!!
The script was fun and educational. It wasn't a complex storyline (I can see how younger grades would enjoy it), however our students also learned about the three animals and how they survive. I looked at your performance as one aspect of the presentation. The fact that you did all the research, made puppets, did all the voices, made the set....these things ALSO had a lasting impression on many. When you showed us "behind the curtain" you could see the excitement in so many students eyes. We are hoping this might inspire students to write and perform. When talking with the other teachers, we all agreed to have you back for both reasons!
-Kristen Theve, Fourth Grade Teacher, Neary Elementary School, Southborough MA.
We just LOVED "Turtle's Wetland Quest" !!!!
The children and the staff loved the entire presentation. In fact, the staff felt that this is the best of all you do!
The children were mesmerized by your newly developed puppet show. This creative and educational puppet show not only captures the childrens' interests but gives them very important information about making new friends, treasuring old friends and being respectful of animals within their habitats.
-Ginny Smith Alterio, Wellesley Hill Nursery School
“Turtle’s Wetland Quest” is truly amazing.
Linda Blades, Director, Montessori Childrens House
This morning's performance of "Turtle's Wetland Quest" was EXCELLENT!
One of the best that I can remember. I enjoyed it and the kids loved it. Deborah is very skilled at presenting to that age level and the content was perfect. I'm sure many of the kids have never experienced a puppet show and my class was really enthralled with it.
Maura, Second Grade teacher, Willet Elementary School, Attleboro MA 11/9/12
“Turtle’s Wetland Quest" is a good combination of natural history and engaging story,
which is difficult to do! If I had known how wonderful it would be I would have asked the rest of my staff to join me”
-Rachel Holbert, Norman Bird Sanctuary and Mass. Environmental Education Society
“This sterling little puppet show ("Turtle's Wetland Quest") is where it all begins. The future of the national environment is in the hands of today’s school children”
-John Hanson Mitchell, Editor, Sanctuary Magazine, Mass Audubon Society
“Turtle’s Wetland Quest" is WONDERFUL! It held everyone’s attention and the wetlands theme is so appropriate” -Linda Cunha, Westport MA Public Library
“My students and I loved "Turtles Wetland Quest." It inspired a whole project on wetland habitats.” -Jean Anderson, Summit Montessori School.
"Turtles New Home" is “CAPTIVATING! It causes adults and children alike to think about habitat issues.”
Sally Watters, President, Southborough Open Land Foundation
I have never seen a puppet show quite like “TURTLE’S Wetland Quest” I was so impressed by how the show both told an engaging story and taught the audience about the specific animals. I appreciated the sense of humor and was very happy to hear so many children laughing. I have received wonderful feedback about your show!
Nori Morganstern Brewster Public Library
"The Twig Family in the Oak Tree"
is spectacular! -a must for all children to see. It fit in perfectly with our unit on trees. The children are still talking about it. Thanks for making the Twig family, robin, squirrel and Hyla the tree frog come to life."
Martha O'Connor, Naquag Elementary School, Rutland. MA.
"The Twig Family in the Oak Tree."
We thoroughly enjoyed your visit! Thank you so much for your delightful performance. Your Oak Tree "theater" was truly original, creative and very impressive--captivating the entire audience. The show, your wonderfully unique puppets, and your charming voices enthralled the children. I whole-heartedly recommend this show for young children for both it's entertainment AND educational value. It was a memorable experience and your talent as an artist and teaching puppeteer was greatly appreciated!
Helyn Bailey, Preschool Director, Herring Brook Day School, Scituate MA
“We applaud you up one side and down the other!! What you do with "The Three Pigs and Other Tales" is so rare, so unique! Your communication with the children is so appropriate that they get the story immediately and are absolutely mesmerized. Your artistry is incredible.”
Martha Elder, North Shore Nursery School, Beverly Farms, MA
Thank you so much for your wonderful performance of “The Three Pigs and Other Tales” at the Fox Branch Library here in Arlington. You are an incredible performer! I loved your interpretation of Stone Soup. You totally captivated the attention of young and old!
I will be sure to invite you back soon.
Liza Halley, Arlington Public Library
“Everyone loved the “The Three Pigs and Other Tales”! Even my two little Asperger's preschoolers sat through the whole show! We weren't sure if they would be able to but it’s such an engaging and attention drawing medium. You’ll be hearing from me again soon!
Thank you for a wonderful experience for the kids!”
Debi Vigeant, Director, Kids A Lot Nursery School, Carlisle MA
The Three Pigs and Other Tales
"That Was Priceless!!"
Judy Anderson, Newton Arts in the Parks
The Three Pigs and Other Tales
“We have seen a lot of puppet shows, but you are really quite remarkable”
-Woman with grandson, Brookline MA
"A Woodland Cinderella"
"We presented Ms. Costine's delightful 2009 UNIMA-USA award-winning one-woman show,, at the Center for Puppetry Arts in January 2010. The production is charming. Our audiences were overjoyed by the exquisite voices and humor in the sweet adaptation of the classic tale."
Jon Ludwig, Artistic Director, Center for Puppetry Arts, Atlanta GA
"Our family all agreed that "A Woodland Cinderella" was the best puppet production we had ever seen, and we loved every minute of it. Thanks for making the party so special. " Ann in Wellesley
"My husband brought our two sons (3 and 4 1/2 years old) to see "A Woodland Cinderella" that you put on at the Billerica Library. They absolutely loved it and can't stop talking about it."
Nicole in Billerica, MA
"A Woodland Cinderella" was absolutely wonderful!
All the moms were asking how I found you and asking for your contact info. My daughter has already asked if she can have the same puppet show next year at her 6th birthday party. She adored you. We all did. Thank you so much, and I look forward to being in touch with you!"
Shannah in Somerville
ET CETERA
"Among all the performers I have seen, Deb is one of the best.
She sets a high standard for professional puppeteers."
Kathleen Conroy, Former Artistic Director at the Puppet Showplace Theater
"Thank you for all four of your wonderful presentations this year.
The children loved each performance and were so excited to know that you were coming!!
Your creativity in presentation is amazing.
You captivated the children's interest and they so enjoyed every aspect of each show.
Thank you for doing what you do. It is truly wonderful!"
Ginny Smith Alterio, Wellesley Hills Nursery School
“Thank you for charming our audiences once again. The reaction to your shows is always so telling regarding your talents. Again, the word that comes up is "MAGICAL."
David Rau, Director of Outreach, and children and family programs.
Florence Griswold Museum, Olde Lyme CT
"Puppeteer and storyteller Deborah Costine helped to make our Free Fun for Families Day program at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum on Wednesday, February 18, 2009 AN OVERWHELMING SUCCESS. Her dynamic storytelling and energetic performances of A Woodland Cinderella provided a positively exciting addition to our day. Adults, children and teenagers alike were thoroughly enchanted with her masterful script, thrilling voices, fun characters and lively exchanges with the audience. We look forward to having her return."
Johnetta Tinker, Director of Community Programs Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston MA
From the Puppet Showplace Theater:
"I have come to know Debbie through her professional involvement at the Puppet Showplace Theatre, and I am truly impressed with her dedication to puppetry as an art-form.
The quality of her productions never ceases to impress me. Like most independent puppetry troupes, Debbie is responsible for every aspect of her shows. But unlike others, her productions are well balanced with equally beautiful puppets, entertaining and captivating stories, simple yet compelling writing, and enthusiastic performances. She understands all aspects of quality puppetry.
I appreciate the opportunity to have worked with her, and I fully recommend Deborah Costine without reservation."
Kris Higgins, Former Executive Director, Puppet Showplace Theater, Brookline MA
“You bring brilliant artistry and magical enchantment upon each visit to our library!”
-Susan Kelly, Childrens librarian Orleans MA.
"Your shows are amazing! The voices, the humor, music, everything!! "
Suzanne Farman, Brookline parent
"You can't go wrong with Deborah -she's always so good. :-) " Montessori child -Nov 2012
AND....
"I LOVE YOU LIKE A BALL OF CHICKENS"
Debbie's daughter Molly - when she was 8.
"It was really really really good; This is just what we are looking for! It has everything!; the story, the content; all about the ecosystem-- and the children grades K-3 were totally engaged. This certainly exceeded my expectations!"
Dr. Rudy Moseley, Principal of the Times Squared STEM Academy in Providence
"Turtle's Wetland Quest" April 3, 2017
"The best I've seen."
Sister Barbara Beauchamp, Director , Notre Dame Montessori Children's Class Wenham MA.
"Thank you for raising it up; not dumbing it down"
-Sister Susan Raymo, teacher , Notre Dame Montessori Childrens Class
"Turtle's Wetland Quest" February 18, 2015
Your presentation at Boyden Library yesterday was a huge success.
I was so pleased with the wonderful turnout and the interest and response of all those who attended on such a wintry day! The children were mesmerized by all the characters you brought to life, as were the adults! In this age of video games and action programs, it was so amazing and reassuring to witness how involved the audience was with your “live” and lively production.
Of course, it was a testament to your special skills as an entertainer and educator! What an outstanding talent you have! Your creativity and abilities are beyond awesome. I cannot begin to imagine how you bring five different personalities to life, keeping their voices distinctly recognizable and so suitable to their natures, while at the same time manipulating their movements appropriately!
Thank you so much for providing a delightful bright spot for so many and for doing it in an exceedingly uplifting way!
With appreciation and high regard,
Janet Haynes, former trustee, Boyden Library Foxboro MA.
"Turtle's Wetland Quest" April, 2014
“Seeing your presentation was discovering a gem - I knew from Stacey, the city-wide arts Coordinator, that you would be wonderful - I did not expect the seasoned professionalism ...and all who watched left with a bit of your magic that day...”
Elizabeth Hall, Enrichment Coordinator, Zervas School, Newton MA.
"Turtle's Wetland Quest" was EXCELLENT. EXCELLENT! The best I've seen!"
Mr. Rene´ Laubach, Director, Berkshire Wildlife Sanctuaries. Massachusetts Audubon Society
"Turtle's Wetland Quest"
What a wonderful performance. ("Turtle's New Home") We would like to have you back next year again. We all agreed it was fabulous!!!
The script was fun and educational. It wasn't a complex storyline (I can see how younger grades would enjoy it), however our students also learned about the three animals and how they survive. I looked at your performance as one aspect of the presentation. The fact that you did all the research, made puppets, did all the voices, made the set....these things ALSO had a lasting impression on many. When you showed us "behind the curtain" you could see the excitement in so many students eyes. We are hoping this might inspire students to write and perform. When talking with the other teachers, we all agreed to have you back for both reasons!
-Kristen Theve, Fourth Grade Teacher, Neary Elementary School, Southborough MA.
We just LOVED "Turtle's Wetland Quest" !!!!
The children and the staff loved the entire presentation. In fact, the staff felt that this is the best of all you do!
The children were mesmerized by your newly developed puppet show. This creative and educational puppet show not only captures the childrens' interests but gives them very important information about making new friends, treasuring old friends and being respectful of animals within their habitats.
-Ginny Smith Alterio, Wellesley Hill Nursery School
“Turtle’s Wetland Quest” is truly amazing.
Linda Blades, Director, Montessori Childrens House
This morning's performance of "Turtle's Wetland Quest" was EXCELLENT!
One of the best that I can remember. I enjoyed it and the kids loved it. Deborah is very skilled at presenting to that age level and the content was perfect. I'm sure many of the kids have never experienced a puppet show and my class was really enthralled with it.
Maura, Second Grade teacher, Willet Elementary School, Attleboro MA 11/9/12
“Turtle’s Wetland Quest" is a good combination of natural history and engaging story,
which is difficult to do! If I had known how wonderful it would be I would have asked the rest of my staff to join me”
-Rachel Holbert, Norman Bird Sanctuary and Mass. Environmental Education Society
“This sterling little puppet show ("Turtle's Wetland Quest") is where it all begins. The future of the national environment is in the hands of today’s school children”
-John Hanson Mitchell, Editor, Sanctuary Magazine, Mass Audubon Society
“Turtle’s Wetland Quest" is WONDERFUL! It held everyone’s attention and the wetlands theme is so appropriate” -Linda Cunha, Westport MA Public Library
“My students and I loved "Turtles Wetland Quest." It inspired a whole project on wetland habitats.” -Jean Anderson, Summit Montessori School.
"Turtles New Home" is “CAPTIVATING! It causes adults and children alike to think about habitat issues.”
Sally Watters, President, Southborough Open Land Foundation
I have never seen a puppet show quite like “TURTLE’S Wetland Quest” I was so impressed by how the show both told an engaging story and taught the audience about the specific animals. I appreciated the sense of humor and was very happy to hear so many children laughing. I have received wonderful feedback about your show!
Nori Morganstern Brewster Public Library
"The Twig Family in the Oak Tree"
is spectacular! -a must for all children to see. It fit in perfectly with our unit on trees. The children are still talking about it. Thanks for making the Twig family, robin, squirrel and Hyla the tree frog come to life."
Martha O'Connor, Naquag Elementary School, Rutland. MA.
"The Twig Family in the Oak Tree."
We thoroughly enjoyed your visit! Thank you so much for your delightful performance. Your Oak Tree "theater" was truly original, creative and very impressive--captivating the entire audience. The show, your wonderfully unique puppets, and your charming voices enthralled the children. I whole-heartedly recommend this show for young children for both it's entertainment AND educational value. It was a memorable experience and your talent as an artist and teaching puppeteer was greatly appreciated!
Helyn Bailey, Preschool Director, Herring Brook Day School, Scituate MA
“We applaud you up one side and down the other!! What you do with "The Three Pigs and Other Tales" is so rare, so unique! Your communication with the children is so appropriate that they get the story immediately and are absolutely mesmerized. Your artistry is incredible.”
Martha Elder, North Shore Nursery School, Beverly Farms, MA
Thank you so much for your wonderful performance of “The Three Pigs and Other Tales” at the Fox Branch Library here in Arlington. You are an incredible performer! I loved your interpretation of Stone Soup. You totally captivated the attention of young and old!
I will be sure to invite you back soon.
Liza Halley, Arlington Public Library
“Everyone loved the “The Three Pigs and Other Tales”! Even my two little Asperger's preschoolers sat through the whole show! We weren't sure if they would be able to but it’s such an engaging and attention drawing medium. You’ll be hearing from me again soon!
Thank you for a wonderful experience for the kids!”
Debi Vigeant, Director, Kids A Lot Nursery School, Carlisle MA
The Three Pigs and Other Tales
"That Was Priceless!!"
Judy Anderson, Newton Arts in the Parks
The Three Pigs and Other Tales
“We have seen a lot of puppet shows, but you are really quite remarkable”
-Woman with grandson, Brookline MA
"A Woodland Cinderella"
"We presented Ms. Costine's delightful 2009 UNIMA-USA award-winning one-woman show,, at the Center for Puppetry Arts in January 2010. The production is charming. Our audiences were overjoyed by the exquisite voices and humor in the sweet adaptation of the classic tale."
Jon Ludwig, Artistic Director, Center for Puppetry Arts, Atlanta GA
"Our family all agreed that "A Woodland Cinderella" was the best puppet production we had ever seen, and we loved every minute of it. Thanks for making the party so special. " Ann in Wellesley
"My husband brought our two sons (3 and 4 1/2 years old) to see "A Woodland Cinderella" that you put on at the Billerica Library. They absolutely loved it and can't stop talking about it."
Nicole in Billerica, MA
"A Woodland Cinderella" was absolutely wonderful!
All the moms were asking how I found you and asking for your contact info. My daughter has already asked if she can have the same puppet show next year at her 6th birthday party. She adored you. We all did. Thank you so much, and I look forward to being in touch with you!"
Shannah in Somerville
ET CETERA
"Among all the performers I have seen, Deb is one of the best.
She sets a high standard for professional puppeteers."
Kathleen Conroy, Former Artistic Director at the Puppet Showplace Theater
"Thank you for all four of your wonderful presentations this year.
The children loved each performance and were so excited to know that you were coming!!
Your creativity in presentation is amazing.
You captivated the children's interest and they so enjoyed every aspect of each show.
Thank you for doing what you do. It is truly wonderful!"
Ginny Smith Alterio, Wellesley Hills Nursery School
“Thank you for charming our audiences once again. The reaction to your shows is always so telling regarding your talents. Again, the word that comes up is "MAGICAL."
David Rau, Director of Outreach, and children and family programs.
Florence Griswold Museum, Olde Lyme CT
"Puppeteer and storyteller Deborah Costine helped to make our Free Fun for Families Day program at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum on Wednesday, February 18, 2009 AN OVERWHELMING SUCCESS. Her dynamic storytelling and energetic performances of A Woodland Cinderella provided a positively exciting addition to our day. Adults, children and teenagers alike were thoroughly enchanted with her masterful script, thrilling voices, fun characters and lively exchanges with the audience. We look forward to having her return."
Johnetta Tinker, Director of Community Programs Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston MA
From the Puppet Showplace Theater:
"I have come to know Debbie through her professional involvement at the Puppet Showplace Theatre, and I am truly impressed with her dedication to puppetry as an art-form.
The quality of her productions never ceases to impress me. Like most independent puppetry troupes, Debbie is responsible for every aspect of her shows. But unlike others, her productions are well balanced with equally beautiful puppets, entertaining and captivating stories, simple yet compelling writing, and enthusiastic performances. She understands all aspects of quality puppetry.
I appreciate the opportunity to have worked with her, and I fully recommend Deborah Costine without reservation."
Kris Higgins, Former Executive Director, Puppet Showplace Theater, Brookline MA
“You bring brilliant artistry and magical enchantment upon each visit to our library!”
-Susan Kelly, Childrens librarian Orleans MA.
"Your shows are amazing! The voices, the humor, music, everything!! "
Suzanne Farman, Brookline parent
"You can't go wrong with Deborah -she's always so good. :-) " Montessori child -Nov 2012
AND....
"I LOVE YOU LIKE A BALL OF CHICKENS"
Debbie's daughter Molly - when she was 8.
