🎭 Workshop: Engineering with Feeling

Instructor: Tyler Stuart
📅 September 14, 2025
🕐 1:00 – 4:00 pm (Central Time)
💻 Online (via Zoom)
💲 $30 | Ages 13+ | Max 20 participants

Description:
In this workshop, Tyler Stuart introduces playful, practical methods for solving common mechanical challenges in puppet design — like eyes, legs, and arms. By working with simple mock-ups, participants discover not only technical solutions but also creative sparks for future builds.

“Engineering with feeling” means looking at mechanics not as cold calculations, but as part of gesture, movement, and life. You’ll come away with a new appreciation for how engineering and emotion work hand-in-hand in puppetry.

👉 Register here
👉 More info

🧰 Required Materials

Please assemble these materials in advance of the workshop:

• String

• 3–4 large beads or balls with holes through them

• Tubes of various lengths (plastic or metal tubing)

• Elastic cording (bungee or rubber bands)

• Roll of tape (duct, gaff, or gorilla tape)

• T-pins or thumb tacks

• Cardboard or foam-core sheets

• Needle nose pliers

• Scissors

• Drill with drill bits (if available)

• Hole punch (if available)

• Wooden sticks (popsicle sticks, dowels, or paint sticks)

👤 Teaching Artist Bio

Tyler Stuart is a visual artist, designer, fabricator, and performer from Portland, Oregon who has worked within the entertainment industry for over two decades creating and performing puppets of various sizes and styles.

He has worked with Michael Curry Design, creating large-scale costumes, puppets, and props for clients such as Disney, Universal Studios, and Broadway venues. More recently, Tyler has ventured into the world of stop-animation, working on film productions such as Guillermo Del Toro’s Pinocchio and the television series Tiny Chef and In The Know.

🔗 Learn more at tylerstuart.com

(Images: 2019 USH Triceratops ·

About Full Moon Puppet Arts

Open Eye Theatre partners with their long-time collaborators at Full Moon Puppet Arts to offer a new series of extraordinary workshops in 2025. These sessions are led by master practitioners and open to artists of all experience levels.

• Workshops happen on Zoom or in person.

• Online sessions are recorded and viewable for 1 week after the live event.

• For questions, email liz@fullmoonmpls.org.
  

  More Info | Book Now

  ---

Begin a fascinating journey into the miniature world of Teatro Lambe Lambe puppetry and learn how to design and build your own fully working theatre box!

This November, join award-winning Brazilian puppeteer and maker Fagner Gastaldon (PuppetSoup), the UK’s leading specialist in Teatro Lambe Lambe, for an interactive online course designed for beginners through to experienced professionals.

More info | Book Now

🕒 Course Times

• 12pm EST (USA) / 5pm UK time

• 8 live sessions across 4 weekends

All classes are live and interactive (not pre-recorded) and the group is capped at 10 participants maximum to ensure a friendly, personal, and high-quality learning experience.

🌎 Who is it for?

This course is suitable for:

• ✨ Total beginners curious about puppetry

• 🎭 Experienced puppet makers and performers expanding their craft

• 🌍 Learners from the USA, Canada, the UK, and beyond (international-friendly timings)

🎪 What is Teatro Lambe Lambe?

Teatro Lambe Lambe is a unique Brazilian puppetry tradition described as “the last great invention of animation theatre in the world.”

Performed inside a small, portable theatre box, shows last just 2–5 minutes and are often viewed by a single spectator at a time. Within this tiny world, puppeteers use ingenious staging, puppets, and tricks to create rich, magical experiences on an intimate scale.

🛠 What you’ll learn and create

Over 8 sessions of expert tuition with Fagner Gastaldon, you will:

• Discover the history, heritage, and techniques of Teatro Lambe Lambe

• Design and build your own miniature theatre box

• Make your own micro puppets and staging

• Receive guidance in performance skills

• Work towards finishing a show ready to perform

You’ll need some basic household tools (scissors, pliers, hot glue gun, etc.), and a simple materials list will be provided on booking.

🎓 About your tutor

Fagner Gastaldon is a multi award-winning puppeteer from Brazil, specialising in Teatro Lambe Lambe for over 20 years. He holds an Honours Degree in Puppetry from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama (London), where he also teaches up to postgraduate level.

PuppetSoup is also delighted to be partnering again with the National Capital Puppetry Guild (USA) to offer a scholarship place on this course.

📩 Book Your Place

Ready to join this magical journey?

👉 Click here to book now or email info@puppetsoup.com for a simple booking form and more details.

⚡ Spaces are very limited (max 10 participants) – early booking recommended!

🌟 We can’t wait to welcome you into the wonderful world of Teatro Lambe Lambe this November!

More info | Book Now

As a huge fan of Judith Hope and her utterly brilliant workshops, I am so happy to share news of her brand-new ONLINE course: Table top People Puppets.

I cannot recommend her enough — Judith’s sessions are always inspiring, full of practical tips, and delivered with warmth, humour, and generosity. Her teaching has a way of making you feel both capable and creatively fearless.

More Info | Book Now

About the Workshop

Over five consecutive days, Judith will guide you step-by-step in designing and constructing expressive table top puppets in human form. Whether you want to create a lifelike figure or a whimsical caricature, she’ll show you the techniques to bring a character to life.

📅 Dates: Monday 8th – Friday 12th September 2025
🕒 Time slots: 12:00–13:00 or 18:00–19:00 UK time (GMT)
💻 Location: Online via Zoom
🎟 Spaces: Limited — and her workshops always sell out!

You don’t need all your materials in advance (though you can gather them if you prefer), and you can work at your own pace outside of the live sessions. Each class is one hour, with plenty of time for questions and detailed demonstrations.

More Info | Book Now

Suggested materials (these are the materials Judith will be using on the
course – Judith will also make suggestions for alternative materials in the
lessons).

Polystyrene balls or eggs ( I used 8 cm and 10 cm)
Fimo air light
Dowel (preferably hardwood) I used 12mm - 15mm)
Small piece of leatherette or similar
Styrofoam (as it is called in the UK. If you are in the U.S.A. this is not what you
call styrofoam! Please check before purchasing or wait to see what is used on
the course).
Bamboo skewer or narrow dowel
Brown parcel paper
Sandpaper
Tissue paper
Gorilla glue
PVA Glue (Elmers Glue)
UHU glue
Pritt stick glue
Acrylic paint
Bungee cord
Coat hanger wire or similar
Toy eyes or similar
Strong thread
Standard 1mm wire

Tools
Craft knife or scalpel
Glue gun
Drill
Junior hacksaw
Scissors
Bradawl/nail, etc
Wire cutters
Bolt cutters (if possible – if not wire cutters will suffice)
Paint brushes
Secateurs
Sharp nose pliers
Vice or adjustable work bench

Why I Rate Judith So Highly

I’ve already taken at least four or five of Judith’s other courses, and every single one has been inspiring, interesting, and hugely motivating. The way she teaches makes complex ideas feel accessible, and her tips are always practical and thoughtful.

The sense of community she creates in her workshops is just as valuable as the skills themselves — you leave not only with new techniques, but also with a network of friendly, like-minded makers. I always finish her classes feeling energised and full of ideas, and I can’t recommend the experience enough.

More info | Book Now

Explore Judith’s Work

• 🌐 Website: judithhope.com

• 📸 Instagram: @judithhopepuppetmaker

If you’ve ever been curious about puppet-making — or simply want to be inspired by someone at the top of their craft — I wholeheartedly recommend grabbing a ticket before they’re gone.

The Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival invites you to go further, refine your craft, and make your miniature performance truly shine.

In Toy Theater II, master puppeteer Roberto Rossi will help you expand your skills—perfect for graduates of Toy Theater I or those with prior puppetry experience. Together, you’ll explore the techniques that turn charming small-scale shows into visually rich, emotionally engaging spectacles.

Over five live sessions, you will:

• Discover advanced articulation and mounting methods for puppets

• Create multi-layered stages to enhance depth and perspective

• Use lighting to focus attention and create atmosphere

• Refine the dramaturgy of your piece for maximum impact

• Present your work in a final online showing

📅 When: Aug 25–31, 2025 (Mon, Tues, Thurs, Sat, Sun)
🕖 Time: 7–9 PM CDT
💵 Cost: $250

💡 New to Toy Theater?
Take Toy Theater I (Aug 18–24) the week before—then roll straight into Level II for the full journey.

🎟 Early Bird & Multi-Workshop Discount:
Register at least 2 weeks before or sign up for both workshops to save 15% with promo code PUPPETLOVE.

✨ Hosted and run by the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival, the largest puppetry event in North America, dedicated to promoting peace, equality, and mutual understanding through the art of puppetry.

🔗 Register for Toy Theater II here

More info | Book Now

The Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival, North America’s largest celebration of puppetry, is bringing the magic straight to your home this summer.

Join master puppeteer Roberto Rossi for Toy Theater I, a one-week online workshop where you’ll learn to craft miniature worlds and bring them to life. Using simple recyclable materials, you’ll design your own stage, create a cast of jointed 2D puppets, and explore the captivating storytelling language of Toy Theater.

Over five live sessions, you will:

• Build a custom miniature stage from everyday materials

• Create jointed puppets and movable set pieces

• Learn foundational design and staging techniques

• Conclude with a live online showing of your creation

Why Toy Theater?
This centuries-old form is intimate yet endlessly inventive—perfect for artists, educators, storytellers, or anyone ready to transform a tabletop into a stage for imagination.

📅 When: Aug 18–24, 2025 (Mon, Tues, Thurs, Sat, Sun)
🕖 Time: 7–9 PM CDT
💵 Cost: $250

💡 Make it a double feature:
The week after Toy Theater I, Roberto will lead Toy Theater II (Aug 25–31) for participants ready to deepen their skills—adding layered staging, lighting, and advanced puppet articulation.

🎟 Early Bird & Multi-Workshop Discount:
Register at least 2 weeks before or take both workshops to save 15% with promo code PUPPETLOVE.

✨ Hosted and run by the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival, advancing the art of puppetry through performances, workshops, and artist training worldwide.

🔗 Register for Toy Theater I here

More info | Book Now

Our friends at Tiny and Tall Productions are hosting an exciting weekend this September — a hands-on puppetry course led by acclaimed puppeteer and director Tessa Bide.

Whether you're a performer, educator, therapist, or simply interested in learning how to bring objects to life, this two-day workshop offers practical skills, expert guidance, and the chance to work with beautifully crafted puppets.

Tessa has been puppeteering for over 15 years, working with companies such as Little Angel Theatre, Blind Summit (London 2012 Olympic Opening Ceremony), and Mervyn Millar, Puppetry Director of War Horse. She is the director of Tiny and Tall Productions, an award-winning intergenerational theatre company based in Bristol.

📅 Event Details:

📍 Redcatch Community Garden, Knowle, Bristol
🕘 Saturday 20 September, 9:30 am to Sunday 21 September, 4:30 pm (doors at 9:15 am)
🎟️ Ages 16+, with early bird and group discounts available
🚗 Free venue parking

More Info | Book Now

What you'll learn:

• Object manipulation techniques

• Bunraku-style puppetry

• Puppet lip syncing

• Devising scenes with puppets

• Simple puppet-making

• Large-scale puppetry using handcrafted puppets by Paper Jungle, with artist Isabel Lyster joining on Sunday afternoon

  More Info | Book Now

Accessibility:
The workshop includes physical elements, but exercises can be adapted to meet access needs. A quiet breakout space is available. Deaf participants are very welcome; Tessa has a basic level of BSL, and bringing an interpreter is encouraged if needed. The space is welcoming and inclusive to all.

Discounts:
Groups of four booking together receive 25% off.

Feedback from past participants:

“It was so varied — not a moment passed without learning something new.”

“A brilliant experience for performers, makers and anyone in between.”

“The structure was strong and feedback was helpful throughout.”

“Useful insights, especially for auditions and developing creative work.”

🎟 Book now and secure your spot:

More Info | Book Now

Questions? Contact: hello@tinyandtall.co.uk

Follow Tiny and Tall Productions for updates on future workshops and performances.

More Info | Book Now

BrUNIMA

Exclusive UNIMA Members’ Weekend Offer – Save 20% on Puppetry with Tessa Bide

UNIMA members — we have something special for you…

Read more

9 months ago · BrUNIMA

Puppets & Prosecco Returns – Friday 29th August
An evening of creativity, fizz, and felt – strictly for grown-ups! 🥂

Looking for something delightfully different to do in Norwich?
Puppets & Prosecco is back at the Norwich Puppet Theatre on Friday 29th August, and it’s the perfect blend of hands-on fun and laid-back social vibes — for adults only.

This isn’t your average craft night. Think puppetry meets prosecco in one of the city’s most unique venues — a medieval church turned theatre space — where creativity and community come together.

What’s the Deal?

• 2.5 hours of puppet-making magic

• All materials provided – just bring your imagination

• Your first glass of prosecco (or a non-alcoholic alternative) included

• A relaxed, friendly atmosphere (with the bar just next door)

• Group discounts available for bookings of 6+ people

Tickets: £20
Includes everything you need to get stuck in (plus that all-important glass of bubbly).
These workshops are for 18+ only.

Book here

Why Norwich Puppet Theatre?

Set in one of only three building-based puppet theatres in England, Norwich Puppet Theatre is a gem of the city — combining performance, outreach, and creative learning under one roof.

For over 40 years, they’ve been champions of puppetry: creating and touring original shows, offering family-friendly events, and running workshops and masterclasses for all ages (including grown-ups). Their work reaches beyond the stage too — into schools, communities, and public events across Norfolk, offering magical, hands-on experiences to inspire creativity in everyone.

As a registered charity, events like Puppets & Prosecco also help support their outreach work with children and young people who have fewer opportunities to engage in the arts.

The Essentials

📍 Norwich Puppet Theatre
🗓 Friday 29th August
⏰ 2.5 hours of creative chaos and prosecco joy
🎟 £20 (incl. your first drink)
👥 18+ only
🍾 Group discount for 6+ people

👉 Book here

Subscribe now

This autumn, they’re opening up a 5-session stop-motion course designed for absolute beginners and creative minds of all backgrounds. Whether you’re an illustrator, educator, aspiring animator—or simply someone who loves to make things—this course gives you a practical and imaginative introduction to the world of stop motion.

What You’ll Do

Across five interactive lessons, you’ll:

• Create your own felt puppet, from sketch to structure

• Learn the basics of puppet animation

• Use simple, accessible tools and materials

• Animate your character in a test sequence and see it come to life!

No previous experience is needed, and the process is designed to be intuitive and fun. The course is available both in person (in Milan) and online, so you can join from anywhere.

This format has already been successfully taught in top Italian schools such as IED, Brera Academy, and the Scuola del Fumetto—and now it’s open to the public.

Course Info:

📅 Autumn 2025 – Dates to be announced soon
📍 Available online and in person (Milan)
📩 To learn more or reserve your spot:
Instagram DM resanimata or email resanimatastudio@gmail.com

About Res Animata

Res Animata is more than an animation studio—it’s a creative hub where ideas are brought to life, one frame at a time. Their work explores meaningful themes through handcrafted storytelling, with a focus on social and personal growth.

Last year, they launched and led the Stop Motion Master’s Programme at Milan’s prestigious Scuola del Fumetto. This year-long course covered every aspect of stop-motion production—from concept design and set building to puppet-making and post-production.

The final result? Two original short films, made by students with professional support and custom soundtracks.
🎥 Take a look at the teaser trailer they created for the programme—it's a beautiful glimpse into their world of storytelling and craft.

Watch the trailer here → resanimatastudio.com

More info and Book

Make sure you follow on Instagram res_animata_studio
Visit the website resanimatastudio.com
Follow on YouTube

Whether you’re looking to learn a new skill, dive into animation, or just try something creative and tactile, this is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to do it with a team who live and breathe their art.

Let your imagination take shape—one puppet at a time.

Subscribe now

From our friends at Cabaret Mechanical Theatre, we’re thrilled to share details of their upcoming workshop: the Automata Tinkering Global Workshop, returning this September for its 12th edition. This brilliantly crafted, six-week online course brings together artists, makers, educators and tinkerers from around the world to explore the joyful intersection of art, engineering, and movement.

Led by Ryan Jenkins from Wonderful Idea Co., with support from Loulou Cousin and an international team of educators, the course runs Thursdays from 18th September to 23rd October 2025. Each session (held live on Zoom) combines practical tinkering with inspiring studio tours, artist interviews, and real-time collaboration in a small cohort of 24 participants.

More info | Book Now

What’s Included?

Participants will receive a specially designed Automata Tinkering Kit by post (international shipping included, except for the EU), which contains:

• Automata Tinkering Kit

• Cardboard Automata Kit

• Cranky Contraptions Kit

• Mini Automata Kit

• Cabaret Mechanical Movement handbook

Over six weeks, you’ll explore cams, linkages, drive mechanisms, and materials—gaining both technical skill and creative confidence. You’ll leave with several working prototypes and a new way to think about movement and storytelling.

Who’s It For?

Whether you're:

• an artist looking to expand your practice

• an educator exploring STEAM-based learning

• a curious tinkerer interested in mechanical play

• or someone seeking a fresh medium for expression

…this course welcomes you, no matter your experience level (recommended for ages 16+).

You’ll need a computer with a good internet connection, a working space (kitchen table is perfect), and a few common household materials from a provided list.

📅Dates, Price & Registration

• When: Thursdays, 4–6pm (UK time), from 18 Sept to 23 Oct 2025

• Early Bird Price: £395 (available until 30 June 2025)

• Full Price: £445 (until 26 August 2025)

• Max Participants: 24

• Scholarships Available: Partial scholarships available for underrepresented audiences and non-traditional learners – email cmt-learn@cabaret.co.uk to apply.
  

  More info | Book Now

“I absolutely loved this. Your friendly expertise had me learning enthusiastically in leaps and bounds... I feel I have an excellent foundation to press on with this excellent oddball pursuit.”
— Kathryn R., October 2023

A Global Creative Community

One of the most exciting aspects of the workshop is the chance to connect with like-minded creators from across the globe. You’ll also go behind the scenes with celebrated automata artists via live studio tours and Q&A sessions.

Past guests have included Paul Spooner, Lisa Slater, Carlos Zapata, Martin Smith, Aaron Kramer, and more. You’ll get to see their tools, methods, materials—and maybe even a few secrets of their craft.

Reviews

“As someone who doesn’t consider themselves an artist, I was nervous to join—but within five minutes of the first class, I felt totally welcomed. I’ve never learned so much, so quickly, in such a warm and creative environment.”
— Marsha S., March 2023

“This was a joyful, collaborative and beautifully organised experience. I came for the mechanics, but I stayed for the community.”
— Zoe P., March 2023

If this sounds like your kind of making magic, I highly recommend checking it out. Registration closes 26th August 2025 to allow time for materials to be shipped.

More info | Book Now

Subscribe now

I highly recommend this unique, in-depth course from our friends at Little Angel Theatre. It’s led by the brilliant Oliver Hymans, a QEST Scholar and one of the UK’s most respected marionette makers. Over five full days, you’ll dive into the intricate craft of wooden puppet carving — from design to jointing to stringing.

🗓 When: Monday 14 – Friday 18 July 2025

🕘 Time: 9:00am – 5:00pm daily
📍 Where: Little Angel Studios, Sebbon Street, London N1 2EH
🎟 Fee: £700 (includes materials)

More info | Book Now

What you’ll learn:

• Safe handling of specialist carving tools

• Traditional wood carving techniques

• How to transform your 2D design into a 3D puppet

• Jointing mechanics and stringing methods

• Operation techniques to bring your marionette to life

Please note: due to the intensive nature of the course, you may not complete your puppet during the workshop — but you’ll leave with the skills and materials to finish it at home.

About the Artist:

Oliver Hymans is an Associate Artist at Little Angel Theatre and has worked in puppetry for nearly 15 years. He trained under legendary marionette makers like Lyndie Wright MBE and John Roberts, and was a 2023 finalist for Woodworker of the Year. His dedication to preserving the craft led to marionette making being added to the Red List of Endangered Crafts in the UK.

🎟 Book your place or join the waiting list here.
Spots are limited for this hands-on experience — don’t miss your chance to learn from a true master of the form.

More info | Book Now

🗓 When: Saturday 7 – Sunday 8 June 2025

🕙 Time: 10:00am – 4:00pm (both days)
📍 Where: Little Angel Studios, Sebbon St, London N1 2EH
🎟 Cost: £105 (includes both days)

More info | Book Now

Led by actor, theatre-maker, and Little Angel’s own Rosa Higgs — co-creator of Persephone: A Tale of The Seasons — this weekend workshop invites you to step into the world of theatre-making for babies and toddlers. You’ll explore how to translate the building blocks of child development into rich, engaging storytelling and immersive experiences.

What You’ll Learn:

• How to design theatre that meets the emotional and sensory needs of babies and toddlers

• How child development shapes creative storytelling choices

• Techniques to craft multi-sensory, interactive experiences for early years audiences

• A chance to collaborate, play, and grow with fellow creatives

Whether you're brand new to early years theatre or looking to deepen your work, this workshop offers a rare opportunity to learn from an artist whose practice is rooted in wonder, play, and connection.

About Rosa:
A graduate of the MA Theatre for Young Audiences at Rose Bruford College, Rosa is the co-founder of Boots and Moon, a theatre company dedicated to storytelling through puppetry, live music, and sensory exploration. She currently works as a Workshop Producer at Little Angel Theatre and brings a wealth of experience and warmth to her teaching.

Spaces are limited — book early to avoid missing out!
Let your creativity meet curiosity where it begins: in the eyes of a child.

More info | Book Now

Subscribe now

Puppet Recipes 5: A Taste of Automata Fest (Online Workshop)
📅 1 June | 🕖 7–9pm CEST | 💶 €30
🔗 Apply Now

As part of our year-long 25th anniversary celebration, Puppets in Prague invites you to the fifth edition of our Puppet Recipes series — and this one’s a real treat for lovers of movement, mechanics, and magic.

What’s on the Menu?
Get ready to savour a taste of the ingenious Automata Fest held recently in Hastings, UK. Mirek, our master puppet chef, brings you inspiration fresh from the legendary Cabaret Mechanical Theatre. He’ll share stories, insights, and mechanical secrets gathered from some of the most celebrated automata artists in the world — including none other than Paul Spooner, often called the Leonardo da Vinci of automata.

See the Mechanics in Motion
From charmingly simple cams to mind-bendingly complex contraptions, you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how automata are brought to life. Mirek will walk you through mechanisms, demonstrate their workings, and offer his expert guidance on crafting your very own automaton.

Your Recipe This Month: Build a New Automata Mechanism
Each Puppet Recipes workshop gives you a fresh challenge — a “recipe” for a different puppet technique or mechanism. You’ll leave this session with ideas, instructions, and a creative assignment to develop at home. The following month, you’ll have the chance to present your piece and receive feedback from Mirek and your fellow puppet chefs.

Details:
🗓 Date: Saturday, 1 June, ONLINE
⏰ Time: 19:00–21:00 CEST (1 hr 30 min)
💻 Format: Live Zoom Workshop
💰 Price: €30
🎟 Apply now to secure your spot!

Don’t miss this magical mechanical evening — a perfect mix of inspiration and hands-on creation. Whether you're a seasoned puppet maker or curious newcomer, there’s a seat at the table for you.

More info | Book Now

Subscribe now

Set Design for Miniature Worlds is a two-part online workshop led by acclaimed designer and director Joel Sass, who has created stunning scenic environments for everything from large theatres to intimate puppet performances. If you’ve ever wanted to build a puppet stage inside a suitcase or turn an old cabinet into a shadow theatre, this one’s for you.

🗓 When? Sundays, 17 & 24 August 2025
🕙 Time? 4:00–5:30 PM Central Time / 10:00–11:30 PM UK time (BST)
💻 Where? Online via Zoom
💵 Cost? $30
🎟️ Ages? 13 and up
👥 Spots? Limited to 25 participants

More info | Book Now

Over two sessions, Joel will offer a crash course in scenic design basics, including measuring, drafting, and sourcing creative materials. You’ll explore how to reimagine found objects — like a suitcase, crate, or cupboard — into a compact performance space for puppets, shadow plays, and object theatre.

This is an ideal workshop if you're a performer, puppeteer, maker, or theatre enthusiast looking to build atmospheric, portable sets without needing a full workshop or power tools.

What you'll need:

• A table top object or container you’re willing to modify (think: second-hand box, old trunk, cabinet, or crate)

• Full materials list will be shared closer to the workshop date

About the Instructor: Joel Sass
Joel Sass is an award-winning director and designer based in the Twin Cities, USA. His scenic designs have graced stages such as the Guthrie Theater, Theatre Latte Da, Park Square, Open Eye Theatre, and more. In recent years, he has turned his design eye to miniature performances — building intimate, atmospheric settings for puppetry, masks, and shadow theatre.

Joel has taught scenic design at the University of Minnesota and Augsburg University, and holds a BA with Honours from the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay. Learn more at joelsass.com.

Registration is $30 and non-refundable unless the event is cancelled.
To sign up or ask questions, email thefullmoonpuppetshow@gmail.com.

More info | Book Now

If you have a workshop or event that I have missed, email the details to hollylikespuppets@gmail.com

Hosted by Open Eye Theatre and led by the brilliant Sarah Frechette, this online workshop is all about designing a travelling trunk show — theatre that fits in a suitcase and is ready to roll (by plane, train, or automobile).

🗓 When? Sunday, 3 August 2025
🕣 Time? 2:30–5:30 PM Central Time / 8:30–11:30 PM UK time (BST)
💻 Where? Online via Zoom
💵 Cost? $30
🎟️ Ages? 13 and up
👥 Spaces? Limited to 20 participants

More info | Book Now

Peek inside the process of designing and building a travelling trunk show — from visual storytelling and performance to the logistics of packing and portability. Whether you're a performer, puppeteer, or just love inventive design, you'll come away with ideas and inspiration.

Materials needed:

• Access to a printer

• Pencil and eraser

No need for fancy tools — just bring your curiosity and a willingness to play.

More info | Book Now

About the Instructor: Sarah Frechette
Sarah Frechette is a puppeteer, stop-motion fabricator, and teaching artist. As the creative mind behind PuppetKabob, she builds and tours original puppet shows all over the world. Her award-winning production The Snowflake Man earned a UNIMA-USA Citation of Excellence, and her work is known for its charm, craftsmanship, and imagination.

This is a rare opportunity to learn from someone who’s mastered the art of making theatre that travels well and tells big stories in small spaces.

Registration is $30 and non-refundable unless the event is cancelled.
To register or ask questions, email thefullmoonpuppetshow@gmail.com

More info | Book Now

If you have an event or workshop you would like to share, please email hollylikespuppets@gmail.com

“Puppet Painting: Explore Colour, Shading, Materials & Painting Techniques” is a 4-part online workshop hosted by Open Eye Theatre and led by the incredibly skilled Sarah Eaton — a professional scenic artist with experience on projects for Disney, Broadway, and Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio.

🗓 When? Sundays, 8, 15, 22, 29, June 2025
🕓 Time? 4:00–5:30 PM Central Time 10pm - 11.30pm (BST)
💻 Where? Online via Zoom
💵 Cost? $60
🎭 Ages? 16 and up
👥 Spots? Limited to 15 participants!

Spaces are limited so reserve your spot today.

More info | Book Now

This immersive class covers it all: paint application, colour mixing, theatrical finishes, and shading for expressive puppet faces. There’s a mix of guided instruction, self-directed projects, and one-on-one feedback — all skill levels welcome.

Required materials:

• Acrylic paint (cyan, magenta, cadmium yellow, white, black, raw umber, and your favourite extras like gold or silver)

• Optional: Golden’s gloss medium

• Sketch paper, pencil, eraser

• Brushes (small, medium, large)

• Painter’s rag, water jar, and palette (lids work great!)

Meet Your Instructor: Sarah Eaton
Based in Portland, Oregon, Sarah Eaton is a painter, educator, and scenic artist with deep experience in puppetry and stop-motion. She holds an MFA from Oregon College of Art and Craft and has painted for major productions including Tiny Chef, In The Know, and Cirque Du Soleil. Her work has appeared in galleries and on screens across the country.

Sarah brings warmth, precision, and a love of storytelling to her teaching. Whether you're picking up a brush for the first time or refining your craft, you're in excellent hands.

More on Sarah at saraheaton.org.

To register or ask questions, email thefullmoonpuppetshow@gmail.com.

More info | Book Now

This is such a rich opportunity to get up close with the artistry behind puppet-making — I’m not running it, but I’m genuinely excited to share it with you!

Exciting news! Applications are now open for the Curious Professional 8-Week Intensive Course, running from 19 January – 21 March 2026. This immersive, in-person course is designed for adults eager to incorporate puppetry performance into their creative practice and professional work. It’s the perfect opportunity to enhance your skills and explore new ways of performing in a collaborative theatre-making environment.

This intensive programme will be taught by professional puppeteers, directors, and artists who bring a variety of practices and perspectives into the studio. The course focuses on puppetry performance techniques, rather than puppet-making, and encourages an openness to applying these skills in both independent and company settings.

Strands of Curious School of Puppetry

Curious School offers three key community strands to meet the diverse needs of its students:

• Get Curious: Aimed at artists new to puppetry, with a special focus on diversity and inclusion.

• Curious Professional: The 8-week intensive professional training course for those looking to expand their puppetry and theatre-making skills.

• Still Curious: A supportive alumni network, promoting peer-to-peer knowledge sharing and ongoing professional development.

Each course is taught by professional puppeteers, directors, and artists who bring a variety of approaches and practices to the studio. Their commitment to collaboration and innovation ensures that students receive the very best in puppetry education.

Vision

Curious School of Puppetry aims to be at the forefront of a nationally celebrated and internationally recognised puppetry sector — a sector that is innovative, collaborative, and open. The belief is that puppetry has the unique power to break boundaries, enrich our understanding of the world, and create meaningful connections between people and communities.

Curious is committed to diversifying the puppetry sector and offering a space where artists of all backgrounds can thrive.

Watch the Story! 🎬

To get a closer look at the world of Curious, check out the film by Brett Harvey, with music by Tim Dalling, showcasing the spirit and energy of Curious School of Puppetry.

At Curious School of Puppetry, explore new ways of creating, communicating, and understanding the world. Become part of a growing community of creative individuals passionate about the endless possibilities of puppetry.

Applications for the January 2026 course are now open – don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative journey!

More Info | Apply

Curious School of Puppetry is not just a place to learn — it’s a community that fosters creativity, inclusion, and innovation in the world of puppetry arts. Whether you’re looking to enhance your performance skills, explore new artistic techniques, or build a deeper connection with a creative network, Curious offers a unique and enriching environment to grow.

About Curious School of Puppetry

Founded in 2015 by Sarah Wright, Curious School of Puppetry is an artist-led training programme dedicated to expanding the professional work and creative practice of individuals through the art of puppetry. With a focus on performance, theatre making, and collaboration, Curious has been reaching creative minds across the UK. From London to Edinburgh to Falmouth, and even hosting workshops in cities such as Liverpool, Newcastle, Manchester, and Glasgow, Curious brings a wealth of experience and expertise wherever it goes.

The school’s mission is to serve as a centre for puppetry arts, developing the art form through training, convening, and advocacy. Curious believes in an inclusive, collaborative sector and is committed to nurturing a puppetry world that connects people across cultures, empowering them to use their imaginations with confidence.

As an organisation, Curious values integrity, dynamism, transparency, and proactive inclusivity. It’s a place where experimentation is encouraged, and the craft is approached with care and rigor.

Subscribe now

Dive a bit deeper into the world of shadow puppetry with this day long intensive on the mechanisms that make shadow puppets move.

This is a hands-on course where participants will get to make their own shadow puppet mechanism, full puppets will not be built in this course, instead we focus on building mechanical systems that can be integrated into future puppets.

Facilitated by Puppet Place Resident Artist: Izzy Bristow,, who is a puppet maker and educator with experience across the puppet spectrum, from the Muppets to life sized dinosaurs, from international tours to heirloom restoration there is little that puppetry has to offer that Izzy hasn’t seen.

Taking place in the Puppet Place Joinery Shop. This workshop will take place on Saturday 13 September, from 10am – 5pm. Doors at 9:45am, with doors opening for registration at 9:45am. This workshop is aimed at adults, young people and older children, but under 16 year old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

To find out more about the workshop and to book your ticket visit Book Now

Book Now

Follow Izzy on Instagram
Follow Puppet Place on Instagram

Subscribe now

Come have a play with many different shadow puppetry set ups! Get to know more about the deep history and diversity of this unique art form.

This is a hands-on course where participants will get to make their own shadow puppets and see how they work in a variety of shadow puppetry set ups.

Facilitated by Puppet Place Resident Artist: Izzy Bristow, who is a puppet maker and educator with experience across the puppet spectrum, from the Muppets to life sized dinosaurs, from international tours to heirloom restoration there is little that puppetry has to offer that Izzy hasn’t seen.

As Izzy says: “Shadow Puppets became a special interest during the pandemic and I have spent a lot of my free time in the last 5 years learning about their history and how they are made. I love teaching about them and hope you learn to love them too!”

Taking place in the Puppet Place Joinery Shop. This workshop will take place on Saturday 31 May from 10am – 4pm, with doors opening for registration at 9:45am. This workshop is aimed at adults, young people and older children, but under 16 year old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

To find out more about the workshop and to book your ticket visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/intro-to-shadow-puppets-tickets-1333160140869

Follow Izzy on Instagram
Follow Puppet Place on Instagram

You may also like…

Subscribe now

Ready to breathe life into puppets and take your creative practice to new heights? This 5-day immersive workshop, led by expert puppeteer Gavin Glover, offers a hands-on introduction to a range of contemporary puppetry techniques. Whether you're looking to refine your skills or explore puppetry for the first time, this course provides everything you need to build confidence, creativity, and technical expertise.

Key Highlights:

• Dates: 14 - 18 July 2025

• Time: Monday - Friday, 10am - 5pm

• Location: Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, 100 Renfrew Street, Glasgow, G2 3DB

• Cost: £605

• Age Group: 16+
  

  More info | Book Now

Through this exciting workshop, you will:

• Master different puppetry techniques and gain confidence to audition for roles requiring puppetry skills.

• Explore the physicality and presence of puppets, learning how they can convey emotions, humour, and even engage in conversation.

• Dive deep into the dynamics between puppet, performer, and audience, with plenty of improvisation and interaction.

• Discover basic construction principles for designing and making a successful stage puppet.

By the end of the course, you'll be able to create powerful puppet performances and consider how puppetry can enrich your own theatre practice.

Spaces are limited, so book your place now!

More info | Book Now

For more details or any questions, feel free to contact: summerschools@rcs.ac.uk.

Get ready to create, perform, and be amazed by the incredible world of puppetry!

More info about Gavin Glover

Subscribe now

This October, join Blind Summit for a one-of-a-kind workshop where you’ll make your very own puppet and learn how to bring it to life in just five days. From building your puppet to creating short improvised performances, this workshop covers everything you need to know to get started in puppetry. Spaces are limited, so if you're interested, be sure to book early.

More info | Book Now

What to Expect

Blind Summit’s extreme puppetry style is all about collaboration and improvisation. You’ll get a hands-on introduction to the technique as you work with other participants to create a puppet and develop scenes with it. The workshop is split into two main parts: puppet making and puppet improvisation & devising.

Puppet Making (2 Days):

• Design and build a puppet operated by three puppeteers.

• Learn how to make joints that move realistically.

• Create a puppet head full of character using everyday materials like newspaper, cardboard, and tape.

• Add costume and hair to bring your puppet to life and give it a role.

Puppet Improvisation and Devising (3 Days):

• Learn how to bring your puppet to life in a performance setting.

• Work as a team to devise short improvised puppet scenes.

• Explore the dynamic between puppeteer and puppet through improvisation and dramaturgy.

• Create and present your devised scenes by the end of the week.

Who Is Blind Summit?

Blind Summit is one of the world’s leading puppet-based theatre companies, known for their innovative and highly expressive puppetry. Led by Artistic Director Mark Down, the company has created everything from intimate puppet performances to large-scale productions, including giant puppets for the London Olympic Opening Ceremony. Their workshops have helped train many successful puppeteers who continue to perform worldwide.

When and Where?

Dates: Monday 06 - Friday 10 October 2025
Time: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm each day
Location: Central London (Exact location to be confirmed)

Cost and How to Book

The full cost for the 5-day workshop is £500, but if you book before June 30, you'll save £50 and pay just £450.

To book your spot, email charli@blindsummit.com with your CV and a brief explanation (max 200 words) of why you want to take part. Spaces are limited, so don't wait!

It’s a unique chance to make and perform with Blind Summit’s expert guidance—sign up today!

More info | Book Now

Subscribe now