13 March 2005
To Whom It May Concern:
I have had the experience of working for Jesse Vail for upwards of four years in the Puppet theatre at Happy Hollow Children's Park, and have been an acquaintance and friend during that time. I worked as a part time puppeteer off and on during summertime, weekends and holidays in the Theatre under Jesse's immediate supervision. During this time I grew to admire and respect Jesse in his element.
One of the most demanding parts of the summer in the theatre was the annually produced puppet camps for children ages 4-6 and 7-9. Jesse organized, supervised and was the creative impetus behind the camps at Happy Hollow. He designed constructed and organized puppets that were both simple to produce and use but also provided the children with the opportunity to express their creativity.
He was at all times a positive influence on the children in the camp, and insured that every child had the opportunity to perform (as they choose to) expand their imagination and express their individuality. He constantly excelled at entertaining the children and their specific needs while at camp, while simultaneously delegating duties to the other puppeteers. During these times, I was constantly impressed by Jesse's ability to play the role of supervisor, entertainer, sound mixer and artisan simultaneously.
At the puppet theatre Jesse also wrote and directed daily preformed
puppet shows.
The genre of the puppet shows themselves was always creative and
entertaining for all ages, but was often interwoven with thoughtful
lessons and messages of deeper respect for ethnic and cultural
diversity.
As a full time student I have had to move on from my time at the theatre, however, it has been a pleasure and a privilege working for Jesse.
Sincerely,
Victoria F