If you can, attend a performance of the puppet show you're thinking about hiring for your event. This will give you a much better idea of their competence, comedy routine, theme, and the like than looking at images online or viewing their promo kit.

Like most performers, puppeteers will often have a promotional kit that can give you an idea of what they have to offer. The standard promo kit includes photos, brochures, testimonials, and sometimes even video of a past performance.

Skilled puppeteers may not be as easy to come by as clowns, magicians, or other artists. You may have to call one in from outside your local area, which may add a travel fee to the amount you're already paying for the performance. It should not, however, be exorbitant.