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WAASUP? Puppeteers find positive message
Published 12:18pm Friday, February 13, 2009A group of area students is using creativity and arm strength to minister to people of all ages throughout the region.
The group of young puppeteers began forming four years ago what is now known as WAASUP (Worshiping An Awesome Savior Using Puppetry). Within that short amount of time, they’ve provided audiences, both young and old, with a positive message and an uplifting experience.
“I like seeing people’s reactions,” said puppeteer Sara Christianson, who has never heard anything but positive feedback following shows.
In fact, their performances sit so well with audiences that you might find yourself on a waiting list to book these kids for an event.
The WAASUP group, which is made up of nine area junior high and high school students, generally performs at festivals, nursing homes, churches and parades. That means they’ve had the opportunity to spread God’s message to thousands throughout the area.
Full-length performances, which last roughly 30 minutes, generally incorporate music, an entertaining story line, humor and a Biblical message.
The behind-the-scenes aspects of their shows are also important components, said puppeteer Olivia Becker.
On top of regular performances, the WAASUP group also gathers once a week at Trinity Lutheran Church to work on their shows, which are constantly evolving as they grow in their experience and abilities.
Students in this group all have a common passion to minister to people of all ages, and a knack for entertaining.
That faith and talent has recently led Kyle Sorkness, the group’s leader, to the International Festival of Christian Puppetry, where he landed a spot on the Puppetry Dream Team.
Sorkness, a high school senior, plans on pursuing a life in ministry, and hopes to continue to use his unique puppet ministry to reach out to people.
WASUUP’s next performance will take place Feb. 28 at Lutheran Island Camp in Henning.
For more information on WAASUP, check out the Web site at www.waasup.org. For information on booking a show, contact Kyle Sorkness at 218-739-5838.
