Kukla and Ollie Parade Puppets
Kukla and Ollie parade-size hand puppets.
Hand Puppets, parade-size
Name/Title
Kukla and Ollie Parade PuppetsEntry/Object ID
2019.21.02Description
Handmade, oversize Kukla the clown and Ollie the dragon puppet made by Burr Tillstrom for use in parades.Context
Burr Tillstrom created these large size puppets to display in parades or when Burr appeared publicly before large crowds, for example at the grand openings of shopping malls. According to Kit Lane in her book "Saugatuck Visitors 1848-2004", "When Burr's brother, Dick Tillstrom, himself an early Grand Rapids television personality, sold the Spear Street house in 2003, the new owners found a box in the attic labeled "Parade K&O." Inside they found the larger and less finished version of Kukla and Ollie often used in outdoor events, especially in inclement weather. They were just waiting for the next parade." See page 85. Mentioned at minute 30 of video at 2024.41.303Collection
Burr Tillstrom, Festivals, events, parades, celebrationsCataloged By
Smollen, AlannaAcquisition
Accession
2019.21Source or Donor
Balas, David L. 1952-2019Acquisition Method
DonationLocation
105 Kukla Puppet
104 Ollie Puppet
Century of Progress Exhibit