Add Row

Add Element

update

Akron Lifestyle

update

Add Element

Home
Categories
Other News

October 01.2025

2 Minutes Read

Discover the Craft Behind the Massive Smaug Puppet in The Hobbit

Ohio Shakespeare Festival The Hobbit Puppet: detailed dragon head design.

A New Take on a Classic Adventure

The Ohio Shakespeare Festival is set to enchant audiences with its production of The Hobbit, kicking off on October 2, 2023. This theatrical adaptation stays true to J.R.R. Tolkien's world, showcasing not just the classic characters but an impressive 26-foot puppet of Smaug, the dragon, crafted meticulously by costume and props designer Marty LaConte. LaConte has a passion for repurposing everyday items into the fantastical elements of the staged play, ensuring that no two performances will look the same.

Artistry in Creation: The Dragon

Constructed with the help of three puppeteers, Smaug’s intricacies lie in LaConte's innovative design which includes utilizing items like bicycle reflectors, plastic bottles, and even pistachio shells to create scales and features. "I always like to repurpose crazy stuff," LaConte notes. The dragon’s fiery eyes, designed with red lights, are said to bring an element of menace to the performance, perfectly embodying the character that has haunted Bilbo Baggins and his companions.

Supporting Cast Brings Depth to Storytelling

Director Tess Burgler emphasizes the importance of visuals and music in elevating the audience's experience. An original English-Irish folk music score composed by the Rude Sea enhances the mystical atmosphere and aligns with Tolkien's lyrical storytelling. Each character, from Gandalf to Gollum, is outfitted with costumes that reflect their essence, drawing from both the original novels and the cinematic portrayal.

An Interactive Experience Awaits

Patrons can expect a blend of traditional storytelling and immersive experiences, including a lobby filled with hobbits dressed in period attire, engaging audiences before the curtain even rises. With special events like Pay What You Will and Free Student Night, the festival aims to make the performance accessible to everyone in the Akron community.

Conclusion: Why You Should Attend

Ohio Shakespeare Festival's take on The Hobbit promises to be a delightful mix of creativity, ingenuity, and nostalgic storytelling that honors Tolkien’s legacy. Whether you are a longtime fan of the stories or a newcomer curious about this mythical adventure, attending this production offers a rare chance to witness the magic of theater in a community setting.

Don't miss out on being part of this fantastical journey; grab your tickets now and explore the creative depths of Akron's own Ohio Shakespeare Festival!

News and Events

0 Comments

Write A Comment

Related Posts All Posts

09.30.2025

Random Roommates to Best Friends: University of Akron’s Inspiring Journey

Update From Strangers to Best Friends: A College Journey Every year, countless students step into college unsure of what lies ahead. For University of Akron sophomores Jaylah Lacewell and Madison Bickerstaff, a chance encounter as random roommates transformed their college experience from a daunting unknown into a remarkable adventure. Living together in the Drs. Gary B. and Pamela S. Williams Honors College not only facilitated a friendship but also illuminated the rich experiences that college has to offer. Finding Common Ground Amidst Differences Initially nervous about the prospect of living with a stranger, Lacewell and Bickerstaff quickly discovered their shared interests. Both students participated in the Emerging Leaders Program and engaged in civic training, laying the groundwork for a strong bond. "I had never lived with anyone outside of my family," Lacewell shared, emphasizing how their shared first days together solidified their friendship. The Power of the Honors Program What they found, however, went beyond friendship. The Honors College offered both students numerous academic and personal growth opportunities. With priority registration for classes and access to exclusive scholarships, they leveraged these benefits to enhance their college experience. The Honors Colloquia, a highlight for Lacewell, featured diverse discussions that enriched their studies beyond individual majors. Shared Adventures and Insights The duo's collaboration extended into planning their courses, attending leadership events, and exploring new cities together. "We went to Chicago last spring, and now we’re going to London together," Bickerstaff said, highlighting how their shared goals fueled their friendship. Experiences like the Dine and Discover dinner series, which connects students with local leaders, imbued their college years with invaluable lessons. Advice for Future Zips: Embrace the Unexpected For new students stepping into college life, Lacewell and Bickerstaff offer heartfelt advice: "Always be on your A-game... your journey starts now, before you even step foot on campus." They emphasize that taking chances on both opportunities and friendships can open doors to experiences that shape one's entire college path, leaving a lasting impact long after graduation. Lacewell and Bickerstaff's journey is just one example of how chance encounters can lead to lifelong friendships and enriching educational experiences. As they navigate their college lives, they embody the idea that sometimes the best decisions are the ones you don’t make—like selecting a roommate.

09.27.2025

Arthur D. Karlin Endowed Chair Established to Elevate Tax Education in Akron

Update Endowed Chair Honors a Legacy of ExcellenceThe University of Akron (UA) has recently established the Arthur D. Karlin Endowed Chair in Accounting through a generous estate gift of $6.7 million from Hildegard Karlin. This chair, in memory of her husband, Arthur Karlin, aims to elevate the university's esteemed tax program and secure its reputation for academic excellence. As reported, the chair will focus on enhancing faculty recruitment and retention to attract top talent and effectively serve the growing number of students in the field.Impact on UA's Tax ProgramThe endowment is particularly significant given the recent growth in enrollment in UA's tax program, which has notably doubled in the past year. This stark increase reveals a rising demand for tax education, underscoring the relevance of tax specialists in today's complex economic landscape. The Arthur D. Karlin Endowed Chair will contribute to this momentum by supporting faculty members who exemplify excellence in teaching and scholarship, ensuring that students receive a premier education that prepares them for success.A Tribute to a Dedicated EducatorArthur Karlin, who taught at UA from 1971 to 1993, played a pivotal role in shaping the university's Master of Taxation program. His legacy, characterized by a dedication to students and innovative teaching methods, is fondly remembered by both colleagues and alumni. "Arthur's innovative approach monumentally transformed accounting education at The University of Akron and beyond," stated UA President R.J. Nemer, highlighting the profound impact Karlin had on the academic community.Continuing the LegacyThe establishment of the endowed chair not only honors Karlin's memory but also reinforces UA's standing as one of the few institutions nationwide accredited in both business and accounting by the AACSB. As local residents witness this development, they can feel a sense of pride in a local institution that continues to push boundaries and achieve excellence in education.For residents of Akron and those invested in higher education, this move signifies not just the university's commitment to academic excellence, but also its role in shaping future leaders in the accounting and tax fields. The endowed chair is both a fitting tribute to a revered educator and a promising investment in the university's future and its students.

09.26.2025

Akron Public Schools Raises Alarm on Federal Funding Cuts: Urgent Action Needed

Update Urgent Call from Akron Public Schools Amid Funding Cuts Akron residents, buckle up: Akron Public Schools (APS) is raising the alarm over potential federal funding cuts that could impact the future of thousands of local students. Superintendent Mary Outley conveyed the district's distress during the September 22 Board of Education meeting, pinpointing crucial decisions being made by the U.S. Department of Education. What’s at Stake? First on the chopping block is the discontinuation of the Aim High Akron GEAR UP program, a vital initiative designed to equip students with college and career readiness skills. Set to lose approximately $1.2 million this year and $3.6 million over the program's remaining lifespan, students who depend on its support are facing an uncertain academic future. This decision threatens not only specialized mentoring services for 1,500 students but also the jobs of several educational staff. The looming cuts stem from changes in governmental attitudes towards diversity, equity, and inclusion, leaving APS officials grappling with why funding awarded under these principles is now jeopardized. Enabling students, many of whom are first-generation college-bound, to access opportunities has always been a cornerstone of this program. Community Can Make a Difference In light of this potential disaster, APS is urging community members to take action. Outley and Director of Counseling Yvonne Culver have appealed to local families and stakeholders to contact their legislative representatives, expressing opposition to these proposed cuts and advocating for educational funding stability. Broader Implications of Potential Cuts Further aggravating the situation, if a recent House bill passes, additional cuts could lead to a substantial loss of $7.7 million for the APS, compromising support essential for teacher training, after-school programs, and wider educational initiatives. The educational landscape as we know it could be drastically changed, influencing not just public schools but private and parochial institutions alike. As residents in and around Akron, your voice matters! Share the impact of these funding cuts and advocacy can safeguard our children's futures—support our schools by reaching out to your local legislators.

Discover the Craft Behind the Massive Smaug Puppet in The Hobbit

A New Take on a Classic Adventure

Artistry in Creation: The Dragon

Supporting Cast Brings Depth to Storytelling

An Interactive Experience Awaits

Conclusion: Why You Should Attend

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Core Modal Title