Remembering Noreen Young: A Creative Pioneer Who Brought Puppets—and Magic—to Canadian Childhoods
Canada is in mourning following the loss of one of its most treasured artistic minds, Noreen Young, the legendary puppeteer, producer, and cultural icon who passed away recently. Her death marks the end of an era, but her legacy will continue to inspire and educate for generations to come. Noreen was more than an entertainer—she was a visionary, a trailblazer, and a beloved figure in Canadian homes for decades.
For many Canadians, Noreen Young’s work wasn’t just entertainment—it was a formative part of childhood. With a singular ability to bring felt, fabric, and string to life, she created characters who felt like friends, and worlds that sparked imagination and joy. Her artistry resonated across generations, shaping a uniquely Canadian voice in children’s programming.
Perhaps best known for her work on “Under the Umbrella Tree”, Noreen brought characters like Iggy, Gloria, and Jacob into living rooms across the nation. These weren’t just puppets—they were soulful, expressive personalities infused with humor, heart, and a sense of wonder. Through them, she taught lessons on friendship, empathy, curiosity, and kindness.
Noreen’s creativity extended far beyond a single show. Throughout her remarkable career, she pioneered puppet-based storytelling, blending education and entertainment with originality that was ahead of its time. She worked not only as a performer, but also as a producer, director, and mentor, nurturing the next generation of puppeteers and artists.
Her impact on Canadian culture cannot be overstated. As one of the founding figures in children’s television in Canada, Noreen helped establish a foundation upon which countless others have built. Her contributions were recognized with numerous awards and honors, including the Order of Canada, a testament to the profound reach of her work and the deep admiration she earned.
But beyond accolades and airwaves, Noreen Young was cherished for her authentic warmth, wit, and endless imagination. She possessed the rare gift of seeing the world through the eyes of a child—and then reflecting that magic back to audiences young and old. Whether on stage, behind the scenes, or in community workshops, she poured her heart into every creation, and those creations returned the favor by living forever in ours.
As news of her passing spreads, tributes have been pouring in from colleagues, fans, and generations of Canadians who grew up watching her work. Many speak of her as a “Canadian Jim Henson,” a true artisan who gave voice and soul to puppets that felt real, lovable, and timeless.
In her hometown of Almonte, Ontario—where she fostered a vibrant puppetry arts scene and founded the Noreen Young Arts Centre—residents remember her not only as a national figure, but as a generous neighbor, mentor, and community builder. Her work in local schools and festivals brought creativity to life right on the doorstep of those she served.
Noreen Young’s passing is an immeasurable loss, but her spirit lives on in every giggle, gasp, and “remember when” sparked by her characters and creations. She showed us the magic in a puppet’s blink, the joy in a child’s laugh, and the beauty of believing in stories made with string and soul.