top of page
middleof.png

Welcome to Middleof!

Immersive Art Gallery Experience

 

 

 

A Heartfelt Thank You to the Creators of Middleof

As we step into the shimmering, multidimensional world of Middleof, a living testament to imagination, collaboration, and relentless creativity, we pause to give profound thanks to the many extraordinary individuals who brought this vision to life over the course of a truly magical year.

First and foremost, we express our deepest gratitude to Ricki Vincent, our brilliant project supervisor and lead artist, whose direction, passion, and sweeping imagination laid the foundation for the realms you now see before you. From conceptual spark to detailed execution, Ricki held the creative compass steady, guiding Middleof with clarity and heart.

To our remarkable artists: Star Hagen Esquerra, Sharkledog, Millie Muhoo,Morgan Shea, Collette Harrison, Torrey Chandran, d. Vinnie C., and Marcelene! Thank you for infusing each world with your boundless talent. Every corner of Middleof pulses with your creativity, every dimension enriched by your bold ideas, meticulous hands, and willingness to dream bigger. Whether sculpting, painting, building, designing, or imagining, you each gave this project life in ways that words can hardly capture.

Your artistry made Middleof more than an installation, it became a realm, a story, a shared dream.

We also extend immense appreciation to the generous donors whose financial support helped turn these imagined dimensions into reality. To Valera Lyles, Annamarie Macleod, Wendy Shea, John Bowers, DJ Guyton, Rebecca Picker, Sita Shapiro, and Linda Sue Norris! Thank you for believing in the vision and choosing to be part of something mythical and enduring. Your contributions didn’t just fund a project, you helped spark a world.

To the Capitola Mall, for welcoming us and providing a home for this ever-evolving world, we offer heartfelt thanks. Your support gave Middleof a place to land, grow, and thrive.

And finally, to the volunteers and the young people from the D.O.R. Program, your hands, energy, and dedication moved this project forward every single day. Whether assisting with builds, supporting logistics, or simply showing up with enthusiasm and care, you made all the difference.

Together, you’ve all helped Middleof become what it was always meant to be: a wonder-filled space where creativity, community, and possibility collide.

With gratitude beyond measure,
Your Friends, The Dragons of Middleof

Meet our extraordinary Dragoneers, the heart and soul of Middleof! With their unparalleled skill and dedication, Dragoneers like Ricki, Star, Suzanne, Elliot, Isaac, Mathieu, Maggie, Morgan, Frankie, Amma, Collette, and Leah breathe life into every corner of our immersive puppetry arts installation. Their artistry transforms fantasy into reality, enchanting visitors of all ages. We extend our heartfelt thanks to these talented individuals for making Middleof an unforgettable experience!

Open Call for Creatives:
Join us in Crafting Middleof Puppetry Arts Installation!


Are you a performing artist, puppeteer, actor, theater technician, or maker
with a passion for pushing the boundaries of creativity?
Join us in Santa Cruz, CA, for a groundbreaking experience!






 


​Who We're Looking For:

Age:
all ages 16-60

Experience:
While professional experience is not required, we're seeking individuals with some level of experience or hobbyist interest in the following genres: Artistry, Acting, Costume Design/Cosplay, Lighting Technology, Robotics Animatronics

Why Join Us:
Be a part of creating something truly magical! Collaborate with like-minded individuals in a dynamic and innovative environment!  Gain hands-on experience and expand your skill set. Showcase your talents to a wide audience during the grand opening in January 2025.


We are seeking:
-Performing Artists: Actors, dancers, and physical performers who can
bring characters to life and interact with visitors in a captivating and
immersive manner.

-Puppeteers: Skilled puppeteers (will train right person) who can
manipulate a variety of puppets, from hand puppets to full-body suits,
creating magical and lifelike performances.

-Theater Technicians: Talented individuals with expertise in lighting,
sound, set design, and special effects to enhance the immersive
environment.

-Makers: Creators and builders who can craft intricate puppets, props, electronics
and set pieces, contributing to the fantastical world of MIDDLEOF


Audition Details:
-Date: Ongoing until positions are filled
-Location: Capitola, CA
-To Apply: Please email a headshot and resume to
the.puppetry.institute@gmail.com

Join us in creating a mesmerizing experience that will leave visitors
spellbound. Be a part of MIDDLEOf and let your talent shine in a world
where fantasy and reality intertwine!
For more information, contact us!

We look forward to seeing your creativity come to life!

The Puppetry Institute is a 501c3 nonprofit that aims to place the magic of creativity in as many hands as possible! Make the world a cooler place puppet at a time with our scholarship program!

Webdesign by Sharkledog via Wix

bottom of page