Families across Portage la Prairie have found a new community icon, and he's got felt skin, button eyes, and a heart of gold. Puppet Peter, the charismatic puppet from the Portage Family Resource Centre, is making his debut, sharing laughs, stories, and the mission behind his growing fame.
Puppet Peter was created in 2020 by North Stream Creations in Steinbach as part of a push to enhance emotional education for young children at the Family Resource Centre. The original idea was sparked by the center's Executive Director, Melissa Morrison, who wanted something more meaningful than off-the-shelf puppets for their 'Mindful Munchkins' program.
"They sent in pictures of the real Peter,” said Puppet Peter. "And they got fabulous me!”
The 'Mindful Munchkins' program, set to return this September, teaches children aged three to five how to identify and manage emotions. But Peter Thiessen, Puppet Peters handler believes it's not just for kids.
"Honestly, I think it's almost more helpful for the parents," he said. "There's a lot of power in being able to name what you feel."
Since his creation, Puppet Peter has become a fixture at community events, from the annual Teddy Bear Picnic at Island Park to glamming it up in a tuxedo for 'Mom Prom.' He's even gone international. "I took a trip to the UK last year," he said proudly. "New ground for puppets!"
Peter’s fame has only grown, with one child reportedly telling her mother she didn't want to leave Portage because of him. "The city needs to get behind this,” Thiessen joked. "I'm keeping people in Portage!"
Now, Puppet Peter isn't doing it all alone. His partner, Puppet Megan, was recently introduced, a surprise wedding gift to the real Peter and Megan Thiessen. The two now sit on the shelf at the Centre, often hand-in-hand.
"Most days, we just sit there holding hands," Puppet Peter said. "I used to position myself to look in her eyes, but it looked a bit creepy... I can't really blink."
Though Puppet Megan's role is still being developed, plans are in motion.
"We’re excited about what we can do," said Thiessen. "We've been talking about puppet video messages."
Whether he's singing, storytelling, or just spreading joy, Puppet Peter has clearly struck a chord with the community.
"He makes tough topics about feelings easier, and more fun."
From school visits funded by the Tim Hortons Smile Cookie fundraiser to viral birthday messages, Puppet Peter is more than a puppet, he's a friend, a teacher, and a hometown hero.
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