PUPPETRY (grades K-12)

In this residency, the student makes original puppets to use in an original performance. The course is focused on encouraging skills specific to the processes of puppetry, as well as the basic artistic skills of drawing, color, composition, sculpture and drama. The puppets are made of paper-mache or “two-dimensional cardboard figures used with “toy theaters”. The student creates distinct, recognizable characters that come alive through costumes, props, shape of features and expressions. The curriculum covers the history of international puppets and the specifics of different types of puppets – such as shadow, glove, stick, finger or marionette.

The class learns the various skills of puppetry art which include design, sketching, sculpture and painting. Once the puppets are made, and a script has been written, the class begins the puppet show production – staging, scenery design, music and sound effects. In the rehearsal process, the student is encouraged to build vocal projection and theater skills, as well as build vocabulary. Self confidence and free expression is enhanced through this process.

Performances will be given for parents as well as peers in the classroom.