My theatrical mission is to spread an understanding and appreciation of the puppet as a performance mode.  I do this through my performance, designs, and my scholarly writing. I believe in the power of puppetry to educate, enlighten, and enliven people of all backgrounds and ages.
		Jennifer Stoessner is a native of Cleveland, Ohio, and has been performing with puppets, officially, since she was ten years old.  She has a Bachelor's degree in cinema and theatre from Denison University and a Master's degree and doctoral degree in theatre from the Ohio State University.  During her undergraduate education, she was an intern in New York, working with Great Small Works, Theodora Skipitares, and the Jim Henson Foundation. She has toured professionally with Madcap Productions Puppet Company, performing 200 shows in eight states for children and families. She now calls San Diego home and is the education programs associate at La Jolla Playhouse.