Melbourne’s renowned Snuff Puppets, known for its massive and thought-provoking puppets, is facing a potential shutdown after the state government withdrew its funding. The not-for-profit organisation, based in Footscray, has captivated audiences globally with its performances that range from whimsical depictions of animals to tackling serious issues like species extinction.
Founder and CEO Andy Freer expressed deep disappointment over Creative Victoria’s decision not to renew the organisation’s annual grant of $112,000. He noted that the current $40,000-a-year grant from Maribyrnong Council is insufficient to sustain operations. Without new financial support, the company may have to close.
“I feel personally rejected,” Freer said. “I’ve been with the company since the beginning, so it feels like it’s personal. It’s been an amazing journey, but it feels like it’s not the right time to stop—we’re still peaking.”
Freer takes pride in the company’s commitment to involving local communities worldwide, from the Democratic Republic of Congo to Brazil. One of their videos, Human Body Parts in London, has amassed 160 million views on YouTube.
The East African Women’s Foundation in Melbourne highlighted the impact of Snuff Puppets’ work on local communities, particularly within the Somali community. Members of this community have collaborated with the company since 2021, sharing stories and connecting young people with their cultural heritage through creative expression.
Snuff Puppets is now seeking alternative funding sources, including tax-deductible donations, as a six-month bridging grant from Creative Victoria expires in June. Freer warned that the 500 puppets stored at their headquarters, the historic Footscray Drill Hall, could be sold or discarded if the organisation folds.
However, he is more concerned about the artists who would lose their opportunities. “So many artists got their start with us,” Freer said. Most of the income from Snuff Puppets’ performances goes to paying its artists.
A state government spokesperson stated that the Creative Enterprises Program supports 81 organisations, including 10 new ones such as L2R Next Gen dance program in Footscray. The funding process is highly competitive, and the latest round aimed to promote greater equity and diversity.
According to the government, Snuff Puppets is eligible to apply for other Creative Victoria programs. Freer acknowledged the need for renewal and supporting younger companies. However, he argued that Snuff Puppets represents a standard of excellence that meets all criteria, working with diverse cultural organisations and a broad pool of artists.
Freer also noted that the company often tackles provocative themes. “We don’t exclusively do puppets for children. We want to show stories of taboo subjects like sex, death and corruption.”
The company’s name reflects its history of using fire in shows, with the joke that puppeteers might be “snuffed out” too.
