Puppetry

I grew up under the influence of Jim Henson's many creations.

Since I was a kid I have wanted to make and play with puppets. Any list I made of my favorite movies would include Labyrinth and the Dark Crystal right at the top.

Tragedy struck me the night I discussed with my wife the desire, now that I have the means and wherewithal, to make my own puppets. She quickly informed me that adults who like puppets are creepy.

Now I can see how someone who hangs out with a creepy Charlie McCarthy-esque ventriloquist puppet might put people off. But I'm talking about making felt and foam Muppets.

Apparently there is no room for nuance in the realm of judging old men as creepy.

The only leeway my wife would give me was that if I could find a way to make a living by my puppets, a la Mr. Henson.

So that's where the discussion lies now. How can I make a living with puppets? It feels like a reasonable question for a grownup to make.

Right?