I have two creative friends named Paraskevas. Betty Paraskevas writes wonderful books for kids of all ages like The Tangerine Bear and Monster Beach and various volumes featuring Maggie and the Ferocious Beast. (I'd link to my favorite Paraskevas book, Junior Kroll, but it seems to be momentarily out o' print.) All of these were illustrated by the other Paraskevas I know…Betty's son, Mickey. Mickey is a terrific designer and artist and multimedia innovator.
Not content to give us fine books, some of which get turned into hit cartoon shows, Betty and Mickey have taken all their creativity and a budget of almost thirty dollars…and brought forth The Cheap Show. Not since The George Gobel Show has a program been more aptly named. It's a cacaphony of bizarre puppets, each made for about the cost of a Krispy Kreme Caramel Kreme Crunch Doughnut. The Cheap Show is currently seen only on one cable channel and it's in a wealthy part of New York state. You can get a nice preview on your home computer by going to —
Wait. Before I give you the link, I'd better warn you. The page automatically plays the Cheap Show theme song, which is so catchy, you'll be humming it for weeks in your car, in bed, at work or at any funerals you may attend. You'll also want to watch the trailer and see some of the other Paraskevas projects which can be reached via the page.
Okay, you've been warned. Here's the link.