Evangeline Parish Library Summer Reading begins with puppet show

The Summer Reading Program is in full swing for Evangeline Parish libraries. This year’s theme is “A Universe of Stories.”
“Uncle” Wayne Daigrepont from the New Orleans troupe Porta-Puppet Players performed this week. He played the loveable, “vrais coo-yon” veterinarian, Dr. Animaux. Local children cheered his interplay with his puppet menagerie.
Daigrepont was born in Lafayette and grew up speaking French. He said he knew he was a comedian since first grade. He created Porta-Puppet Players in 1988 in the New Orleans theme park, Storyland. Porta-Puppet Players will have their 30th anniversary next year. Daigrepont describes their comedy as entertainment for children and adults alike.
Suzy Lemoine, Outreach Director for the Ville Platte library, said of the Summer Reading Program, “Libraries around the parish are a wonderful source of cultural enrichment” and she hopes the public will “embrace this opportunity to find some free entertainment that will make you smile and encourage you to laugh a little more.” She says she hopes the kids will leave laughing and inspired and learn that their dreams are achievable.
“Uncle” Wayne Daigrepont is just one of several performers participating in the Summer Reading Program. Storyteller and actress, Daphne Thomas, will perform June 11-13 throughout the parish libraries, and Geebo the Clown & Magician will perform July 23-25. In addition to performances, children can play games and make crafts, and of course read. All age groups are welcome.
Lemoine gives credit to Mary Foster-Galasso for starting the Summer Reading Program in 2001. Lemoine also says that the program is made possible through grants by the Acadiana Center for the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council as administered by the Acadiana Center for the Arts.