It’s Howdy Doody Time!

This fall, the Center for Puppetry Arts invites you back to Doodyville. Join us as we unveil a special exhibition in our Global Gallery featuring artifacts from Howdy Doody (1947–1960), one of the most beloved programs in the history of American television.

The exhibit opens at a perfect moment. As the United States marks its 250th anniversary and the 80th anniversary of Howdy Doody’s premiere broadcast approaches, these iconic objects bring a beloved piece of American childhood back to life. On view will be Clarabell’s costume and clarinet, Buffalo Bob’s fringed Western wear, a Howdy Doody created for photo opportunities, and of course, a Howdy Doody marionette.

The evening begins with stories, photos, and video from our special guest, Burt Dubrow, a lifelong friend of Buffalo Bob Smith and devoted steward of the show’s legacy. Burt’s extraordinary personal connection to the show and its beloved host inspired a lifetime of collecting, and he’s bringing those memories and artifacts to share with you. You may also know Burt as the television producer behind two of America’s most iconic talk shows, The Sally Jessy Raphael Show and The Jerry Springer Show. Tonight, however, he joins us first and foremost as a Howdy Doody fan.

Whether you remember rushing home to watch the show on a snowy black-and-white television or are discovering these characters for the first time, this is an evening of nostalgia, community, and a celebration of television history.

Doors open at 6 PM. Program Begins at 7 PM.