Bernice Silver was a puppeteer and activist who was best known for being called "the Queen of Potpourri" a combination of puppetry, music, storytelling, & politics, in her performances. She started out working in schools and factories in her career as well as selling encyclopedias and other items door-to-door. Bernice then joined workers' theatre groups and was even an original cast member for the Broadway show Our Town in 1938. By the 1960s, Silver began working with puppets and toured New York with many people, billed as the Vagabond Puppeteers. She was also active in the Puppetry Guild of Greater New York which earned herself the nickname of "the Queen of Potpourri." For decades, she entertained at children's events within the New York state area and pretty soon in her career, she did comedy. It's a shame Bernice Silver never did any Muppet or Sesame projects throughout her career, since the latter was shot in New York, but she was probably too busy with her own work. At least though with all of her work she was offered a grant by The Puppeteers of America, to fund senior attendees within the organization's national festivals. Being an activist in their lives is something not a lot of puppeteers do, with the exception of Judith Lawrence and probably other unknowns. Sadly in 2020, Bernice died from respiratory failure at the age of 106. Silver was probably one of the only women puppeteers ever to become a centenarian, with the other being Olive Blackham. It is extremely rare for performers to become centenarians, especially those who are or were puppeteers or other performing professionals. Even though she's gone, she'll always be remembered by everyone in the world who knew her and worked closely with her. Bernice Silver, as "Queen of Potpourri" you've really outdone yourself with your combinations of puppetry, music, storytelling, and politics. It's no wonder you've been given that nickname and was offered a grant for charity. Keep watching everything from heaven and your spirit will be in everyone's hearts. Rest in peace Bernice. We'll miss you, Silver!
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