Master puppeteer Phillip Huber and his charming canine creation, Pudgy, recently visited the iHeartRadio Broadway studio, sharing insights into the enchanting world of BOOP! The Musical and Huber's storied career in marionette artistry.
In BOOP!, Huber brings Betty Boop's loyal dog, Pudgy, to life through a meticulously crafted marionette. Pudgy features expressive eyes, a rolling tongue, and movable tail, legs and ears. Huber's passion for puppetry ignited at age three when his mother gifted him a hand puppet to help overcome shyness. By seven, he was staging neighborhood puppet shows, and at fifteen, he declared himself a professional puppeteer. His dedication led to collaborations with legends like Jim Henson and performances in productions such as Being John Malkovich and Disney's Oz the Great and Powerful.
Director Jerry Mitchell initially considered using a real dog for Pudgy but was swayed by Huber's prototype, recognizing the unique charm a puppet could bring. Since its Broadway debut on April 5, 2025, at the Broadhurst Theatre, BOOP! has delighted audiences, with Pudgy often stealing the spotlight. Check out the interview with Phillip in the video player above and Pudgy below.