The genius of Joseph Cashore—an artist and performer for more than 20 years—is apparent on numerous levels. The craftsmanship and mobility of this master of detail’s intricately decorated, 2-foot-tall marionettes demonstrates intention with every stitch, crafting human-like and realistic characters. More impressively, Cashore is a virtuoso manipulator who understands the physics of motion and life’s subtle gestures—his slightest motion adds pathos to a head nod or replicates a kite’s playfulness in the breeze.
Set to classical masterworks, Life in Motion plays out like a series of vignettes, featuring Cashore performing scenes from everyday life, from a homeless person’s distraught rummaging through trash to a mother comforting her child. Saturday’s Simple Gifts takes many of Life in Motion’s scenes, but is shortened and is without an intermission to accommodate younger audiences. This ancient art still resonates today, timeless and beautiful.
Cashore Marionettes @ Pardoe Theatre, Harris Fine Arts Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, Life in Motion, Sept. 23-24, 7:30 p.m.; Simple Gifts, Sept. 25, noon & 2 p.m.; $6-$8
