Frank Oz reveals how his parents fought Hitler with puppetry

In the early 1930s, Frank Oz, a renowned puppeteer known for his iconic characters in children's entertainment, was influenced by the artistic lineage of his parents, Isidore Oznowicz and Françoise Ghevaert. The couple, active puppeteers themselves, contributed significantly to the craft by bringing their unique charm and creativity to the performance scene. Living in the context of rising fascism in Europe, particularly the threat posed by Adolf Hitler, they utilized their puppeteering skills as a form of artistic rebellion. The couple's most notable act of defiance was creating a puppet representation of Adolf Hitler, measuring 50 centimeters, specifically designed to satirize the Nazi leader. This puppet was part of their nightclub performances, which included an orchestra of eight marionettes that entertained audiences at a time when the political situation was becoming increasingly dire. Frank Oz shares that their performances were not only about entertainment; they also served a critical purpose by challenging the villainous ideologies gaining traction in their society. More than just puppetry, their work is a testament to the power of art as a medium for subversion. By highlighting the absurdity of despotic figures through satire and humor, they contributed to a rich tradition of puppetry that critiques power and offers a space for alternative narratives. This family legacy of using artistry to combat oppression deeply influenced Frank Oz's later career in the entertainment industry. Frank Oz would go on to create beloved characters such as Miss Piggy and Yoda, but the roots of his craft can be traced back to the courageous acts of his parents. Their story underscores the importance of artistic expression as a means of resistance against tyranny and reinforces the notion that creativity can challenge societal issues, even in the darkest of times.