Frogtown Mountain Puppeteers, a performance company based in Bar Harbor, comprising siblings Erik Torbeck '95, Brian Torbeck, and Robin Erlandsen, recently gained attention through a profile by WABI TV5, as College of the Atlantic reported. This recognition highlights the enduring local presence and wider reach of the family-run artistic endeavor. The company is currently marking its twenty-sixth year in operation, a significant milestone dedicated to delivering handmade puppetry and humor to various audiences, particularly within Maine. These sibling creators are active throughout the year, presenting their distinctive shows not only within their home state but also extending their performances across the breadth of the United States and into Canada, demonstrating their broad appeal and consistent activity.
The core of Frogtown Mountain Puppeteers is formed by Brian Torbeck and Erik Torbeck, along with their sister, Robin Erlandsen. This specific trio officially commenced their joint puppetry performances in the year 2000, establishing the foundation for their long-term collaboration and artistic output. The genesis of the entire group, however, can be directly attributed to a puppetry class Erik Torbeck undertook during his academic tenure.
Erik Torbeck indicated to College of the Atlantic that this crucial course was part of his curriculum during his final year at the College of the Atlantic, located right here in Bar Harbor, serving as the unexpected catalyst that sparked the formation of what would become a celebrated local performance company. Robin Erlandsen, speaking to College of the Atlantic, shared a lighthearted perspective on the origins, stating with a laugh that they "blame it on Erik for starting it," acknowledging his pivotal role in launching their shared venture.
Erik further elaborated on this foundational experience to College of the Atlantic, confirming his attendance at the institution. He specified that this influential class was taught by Andrew and Bonnie Periale, who represent the Perry Alley Theater, an artistic group based in New Hampshire, indicating the professional lineage of his training. Describing the sequence of their involvement, Erlandsen explained to College of the Atlantic that because Erik is the eldest sibling, he was the first to draw Brian into the burgeoning puppetry project. As the youngest sibling, Erlandsen herself was brought into the ensemble subsequently, completing the trio.
Their very first production was a performance of "The Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow." Erik Torbeck recounted to College of the Atlantic that this initial show marked the definitive beginning of their journey. He conveyed a sense of continuous momentum since that debut, indicating that the initial show provided a starting point from which their performing careers have shown no signs of cessation. The enduring presence of Frogtown Mountain Puppeteers, rooted in a college course in Bar Harbor, underscores a sustained commitment to the arts and a remarkable family collaboration that continues to entertain audiences over two decades later.
