Workshops and demonstrations are given at the museum from spring through fall. There is no admission charge, but donations are accepted. The puppetry program, a prominent part of UConn's drama department, was started in 1968 by Professor Frank Ballard, who created the first full stage production. It is the only puppet arts training program in the United States in which students can work toward a BFA, MA or MFA degree. UConn puppetry program alumni are now featured in The Lion King on Broadway, and also assisted with the production of Juan Darien, directed by Julie Taymore at Lincoln Center.
Several alumni are in Hollywood for computer animation.
Current puppet arts director is Bart Roccoberton, Jr. who oversees a large mainstage production space in addition to smaller black box presentations. Based in a traditional academic setting, students study shadow and mask theater, hand and rod puppetry, and marionettes in reference to historical precedents and contemporary usage, while projecting toward future applications. Through hands-on exploration of materials and performance techiques for both stage and television, students develop a palette of choices with which to meet their professional careers. UConn students are also joined by professionals such as Zhang Ze Hua, one of China's leading rod puppeteers, who is now studying at UConn and instructing classes. They also have the opportunity to apply and test their knowledge and skills by working in Department of Dramatic Arts main stage productions for both the Human and Puppet Theaters.