Thousands attend Paperhand Puppet's annual summer show

The Saxapahaw-based company is known for its large-scale puppet shows that feature all sorts of puppets - giant puppet, shadow puppets, stilt dancing and more. According to its website, more than 1,000 people came out for opening night.

Each summer, Paperhand weaves tales that explore myths and tell stories "of the human heart" that aim to "entertain, bring joy, instigate wonder and inspire contemplation about the incredible world around us," according to the group's website. The group tells those stories with live music and a lot of creative expression.

Really, it's hard to exactly describe a Paperhand Puppet show other than to say it's a pretty amazing, unique experience for families. This year's show is called "A Drop in the Bucket: The Big Dreams of Tiny Thing."

The group offers an annual summer show, which started earlier this month in Chapel Hill and runs through Labor Day, and then moves on to the N.C. Museum of Art in Raleigh in September.

It's every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Labor Day through Sept. 7 in Chapel Hill. A suggested donation is $15 and $8 for kids, though nobody is turned away at the door for lack of funds. Shows start at 7 p.m. Some matinees are planned.