Bringing Objects to Life: A Weekend of Puppetry with Tessa Bide
Saturday 20 to Sunday 21 September 2025 at Redcatch Community Garden, Bristol
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
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
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:
Questions? Contact: hello@tinyandtall.co.uk
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