Crankie Fest Greenfield

On May 10, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, Greenfield will host its very first Crankie Festival, set in the scenic Energy Park. The free event invites the community to experience this unique form of storytelling through crankies – an analog art form with folk tale origins from around the world.
A crankie is a storytelling device that consists of a scroll inside a box, where a puppeteer “cranks” the scroll as a performance unfolds, revealing a visual representation of the story. Often compared to “analog television” or “2D puppet shows,” crankies offer a captivating, hands-on way to engage with art.
The festival will showcase over 10 crankie performances, created by eight local and touring artists, with acts ranging from storytelling and music performances to theatrical expressions. This eclectic mix is designed to highlight the rich variety of artistic possibilities within the medium.
“We hope to introduce the magic of crankies to local artists and residents, while building a more connected and artistic community in Franklin County,” said Bella Levavi, Greenfield resident and multidisciplinary artist. Levavi, who has created five crankies in collaboration with other artists. often performs across the valley and beyond with the puppet company Free Pile Productions.
Although not specifically geared toward children, the event is family-friendly and welcomes people of all ages. The accessible and diverse nature of crankies makes them enjoyable for everyone, whether you’re a first-timer or an avid folk art enthusiast.
In the event of rain, the festival will be moved to the LAVA center, located at 324 Main Street and will take place at the same time and day as originally planned.
The festival is made possible by the Crossroads Cultural District and the Mass Cultural Council (MCC).
The event is free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to bring a picnic and enjoy an afternoon of art and community. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience folk art in action in the heart of Greenfield!