Help Thistle Theatre Grow in 2025

As GiveBIG approaches, I want to share what this past year has meant to me — and why your support of Thistle Theatre is more important than ever.

Since stepping into the role of Artistic/Executive Director, I’ve been working hard to expand Thistle Theatre’s reach, deepen our impact, and ensure that puppetry continues to bring joy, wonder, and meaningful storytelling to communities across Washington and beyond.

I’ve had the privilege of writing and directing three original puppet shows, each designed to engage young audiences and spark imagination. I’ve secured multiple major grants, raising over $100,000 to keep our work thriving — and used that support to launch an Education Department, create new programming, and bring Thistle’s work into new corners of the region.

We’ve now performed in King, Pierce, Kitsap, and Snohomish counties, and even expanded our reach with performances in Oregon. I’ve built collaborations with organizations I deeply admire, including:

• The KETA Legacy Foundation, supporting environmental education through puppetry

• The Suquamish Tribe, helping preserve and share Indigenous stories

• The Seattle Japanese Garden, blending traditional themes with theatrical storytelling

These partnerships — and this work — have been some of the most fulfilling of my career. But I’ll be honest: the path forward is uncertain unless we can grow our base of individual support.

Thistle Theatre has survived — and thrived — thanks to generous grant funding. But those funds may not be as strong or reliable in the future. That’s why I’m turning to you now.

If you’ve ever believed in the power of puppetry, in the importance of storytelling, in the magic of live performance — I’m asking you to help me keep it alive.

Your GiveBIG donation today will help us:

• Continue performing for families and schools across the region

• Provide accessible arts education through residencies and workshops

• Create new original shows that reflect our diverse communities

• And ensure that puppetry continues to have a strong, creative home in Washington

We are doing meaningful work — and your gift can help us do even more. Thank you for standing with me, and with Thistle Theatre.

With appreciation,

Gavin Cummins

Artistic/Executive Director, Thistle Theatre