Here comes Tuffy!
Park Slope’s newest musical star, Tuffy Tiger, will release his first album at the Puppetry Arts Festival on June 27. But the felted feline folksinger says he is not nervous — in fact, he’s looking forward to meeting people at the show.
“I hope all of my new friends have a really tuffy-tastic time,” said Tuffy Tiger.
Coining a new adjective based on his name? Is the prospect of fame going to Tuffy’s little head?
“I don’t know much about fame,” said Tuffy, “but I certainly love helping people and teaching them.”
Tuffy explained to a reporter that he is almost five years old, and that he lives a modest life in a tree house owned by his adoptive mother. His debut CD, “Songs and Music For Me” will explain the lessons he has learned about using inside voices, washing up, and getting along with other kids.
The director of Puppetry Arts had nothing but kinds words for his new act.
“He’s curious, clever, and has an enduring nature,” said Tim Young.
Tuffy said he hopes to star in his own television show some day, but until then he is rehearsing for music videos and live school appearances.
Tuffy’s upbeat philosophy of helping others is in line with the mission of Puppetry Arts, said the group’s director.
“It’s designed to provide opportunities,” said Young, “It’s free for the community to experience enriching family acts through the art of puppetry.”
The festival also provides resources and a stage for emerging artists, he said. Puppeteers new and old will take the stage for regular performances during the four-hour festival, and visitors can create their own puppets.
However, the festival also gives space to more established figures, including corporate reptile the Geico gecko, beloved robot R2-D2, and evil imperialist Darth Vader and some of his storm troopers.
The young tiger maintains that he is not afraid of the Sith lord or his minions — it seems that this cub has the heart of a lion.
“I would even go to outer space to help wherever I’m needed,” Tuffy said.
Puppetry Arts Festival at J.J. Byrne Park (334 Fifth Ave. between Fifth and Sixth streets). June 27 from 11 am–3 pm. Free.
