This workshop demystifies the incredibly versatile art form of puppetry and arms participants with the basic skills to create characters and devise visual stories. In a series of exercises focussing on the fundamental manipulation skills participants will gain a grounding in DPS’ iconic puppetry work.

60-90 mins | Primary and Secondary

Workshop content includes:

· The crafting and use of paper and object-based puppets.

· An introduction to puppet manipulation skills.

· The opportunity to devise small scale visual theatre performances.

· A focus on movement and shape to create visual symbol & meaning.

Using the DPS Prototyping Method, participants will learn the basics behind designing their own puppet character, and using readily available materials to exquisite effect, before working together to explore the principles of puppet manipulation to bring their character to life through a series of visual theatre devising exercises using text or image as stimulus.

60-90 mins | Primary and Secondary

Workshop content includes:

· Create a character design with a consideration of form and symbol in visual design.

· Construct animated puppet skeletons.

· Form an understanding of different joint & hinge styles.

· Experiment with simple Puppet Mechanisms.