Monster Troupe: Celebrating the Spirit of Halloween and Community Artistry
Welcome to the home of the Monster Troupe, a vibrant and dynamic group that has become an integral part of the Portsmouth Halloween Parade. Our journey began as a small collective of local artists and enthusiasts, united by a passion for creativity and community engagement. Today, we're known for our spectacular giant puppets and exuberant dance performances.
Photo Credit: Guy Davis 2018
Photo Credit: Bob Dale 2024
Our History: Community and Creativity
We started with a simple mission: to add a dash of artistic flair and communal spirit to the Portsmouth Halloween Parade. Our humble beginnings involved just a few handmade puppets and a group of dedicated volunteers. Since then, we've evolved into a troupe that each year captivates the parade with our innovative designs and performances.
The Portsmouth Halloween Parade, an annual event cherished by the community and listed as one of the 10 best Halloween parades in the US by USAToday.com, serves as the stage for our elaborate performances. The parade, known for its open and inclusive nature, allows us to showcase our creations to an audience that eagerly anticipates our new themes and designs each year.
Photo credit Mary Johanna Brown 2022
Photo credit Paul Sorli 2017
Giant Puppets: The Heart of Our Troupe
Our giant puppets are the centerpiece of our performances, each an expression of creativity and craftsmanship. These towering figures, often inspired by folklore, fantasy, and the supernatural, are crafted by Troupe members under the direction of the Monster Mistress. Months of planning, designing, and building go into each puppet, ensuring that they not only captivate the audience but also tell a story that resonates with the spirit of Halloween.
Photo credit Mary Johanna Brown 2021
Photo Credit: Kendal Bush Photography 2018 New Hampshire Magazine
Photo credit Mary Johanna Brown 2021
Photo credit Mary Johanna Brown 2022
Photo credit Steve Clark 2021
Dancers: Bringing Our Creations to Life
Our dancers, dressed in thematic costumes, add vitality to our puppets. Their performances are not just dances but stories that enhance the puppets, creating an engaging spectacle that captures the essence of Halloween.
Photo credit Mary Johanna Brown 2023
Join us as we celebrate the spirit of Halloween and the joy of community artistry with the Monster Troupe. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, you're invited to be a part of our unique journey. Come and experience the magic!
.jpg)