Today we’d like to introduce you to Shuntell “lynn” Gordon
Shuntell “Lynn”, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
In 2005, I stood behind a one person, handmade tree with a monkey puppet on my hand, watching a room full of children light up with laughter and joy. That day, at my kids’ school Read-In, Who’s in the Jungle? was born—and so was my love for puppetry. What started as a mother’s desire to create something special quickly became something bigger than I ever imagined. That puppet show led us to our first paid performance at Georgia State University, and I began to see the power of puppetry—not just to entertain, but to connect, to teach, and to inspire.
But as much as I loved performing, family came first. My husband and I made a decision early on: our children were our priority. So in 2006, just as we began to step into the world of professional puppetry, we chose to step back. We promised each other that once our kids were older, we would return. That promise stayed close to my heart as I quietly continued to dream, sketch ideas, and perfect my craft behind the scenes.
In 2023, 1202Puppets was reborn—not just as a business, but as a family legacy. Our children, now adults, joined us in bringing puppets back to life. Together, we create shows that bring families closer, help children find their voice, and remind everyone—parents, teachers, and kids—that no dream is ever too far out of reach. Puppetry gave me my life back, and now, we give that gift to others, one show, one puppet, and one child at a time.
Each show we perform, each puppet we create, carries that heart. It’s not just a stage—it’s our story, shared with every family we meet.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has been far from smooth. In 2010, I was diagnosed with Lupus SLE and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Pain became my daily reality—simple tasks felt impossible, and exhaustion overtook me. Working 60+ hours a week as a Senior Graphic Designer while raising my family left me depleted. Depression crept in, and I often wondered if I would ever feel whole again.
By 2017, my condition worsened, and doctors suggested aggressive treatments. I chose a different path—one of faith and personal healing. I transformed my lifestyle, embracing a plant-based diet, drinking more water, and focusing on my mental and spiritual well-being. It took time, but by 2021, my tests showed no traces of Lupus or Rheumatoid Arthritis. My doctor was stunned. That moment reminded me—we are capable of more than we realize. Healing is possible, even when it feels out of reach.
Now, I share my story for anyone facing their own battle. Whether it’s illness, loss, or uncertainty—you are not alone. Your struggle can become your strength. Hold on to hope, take small steps forward, and trust that better days are ahead. I’m living proof that you can come out on the other side, stronger and filled with purpose.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
At 1202Puppets, we do more than perform puppet shows—we create experiences that bring families and classrooms together. Our shows and workshops encourage children to laugh, think, and discover new ways to express themselves. Parents often tell me their shy child found confidence during a performance, or a teacher shares that our Empuptry Workshop helped a student open up for the first time—that is what drives me.
What sets us apart is that everything we do is built from personal experience and heart. Every puppet is handmade, every story carefully written because I know what it means to rebuild after struggle. From facing Lupus to stepping away from puppetry to raise my children, I understand resilience—and that spirit is woven into every show. We don’t just entertain; we build connections and create spaces where kids feel valued and heard.
I’m most proud when I see a child completely engaged or hear from a parent that their child is still talking about the show weeks later. That’s when I know we’ve made a lasting impact.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I see puppetry becoming a vital tool for emotional learning and connection in a world increasingly dominated by screens. Parents and educators are seeking hands-on, unplugged experiences that foster creativity and empathy.
I believe puppetry will continue to grow as a bridge between entertainment and education, helping children develop emotional awareness and communication skills in a playful, engaging way. More than ever, families are craving meaningful time together, and puppetry offers that rare opportunity to pause, connect, and create lasting memories.
At 1202Puppets, we are committed to being part of this evolution. We will continue crafting shows and workshops that bring families and classrooms together, encouraging every child to dream, create, and see the value they bring to the world.
Pricing:
- starting price for 1 hr Who’s in My Jungle show within 30 miles of Atlanta is $595
- starting price for personalize 1 hr shows start at $1,995
- starting price for Empuptry Workshop $895 depending on number of kids
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.1202puppets.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1202puppets/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1202KidsFoundation
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/s-lynn-gordon/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@1202puppets
- Other: https://www.1202kidsfoundation.org
Image Credits
1202Puppets to credit for all images.
