WHAT YOU WILL NEED:

• Reliable WiFi connection, video/mic access to Zoom, speaker or headphones. Please make sure your camera is setup so you can be seen when required too!

• Small desk or table on which to place your computer/laptop or other device, with room for some puppetry! (See illustration below)

• Basic Materials:

Balloons (round, not long!)

Roll of parcel paper

Masking tape

Tea towel or dishcloth

2 wooden spoons

Some elastic bands

Pens / Pencils/ Paper for note taking

You will be asked to find some other household items but these will be at your own discretion (e.g. A sponge or packet of crisps, some cutlery or almost any other basic objects you can easily pick up and have fun applying the techniques to!)

FAQ’s

How long is each class?

Each class runs at 3 hours long, with a 20 min break. Standard booking is for 3 classes, from group A,B,C or D. You’ll have a full 8 hours of puppetry contact.

I’m [totally new] OR [very experienced] in puppetry performance, is this workshop for me?

This class is designed to cater for a wide range of experience. Minimum age recommendation is 18+. If you’re an experienced performer it will give you a specific set of exercises and tools to develop your craft. If you are new to puppetry, the step-by-step techniques will be a great start to your learning. I’ve developed this approach over years of working with puppeteers of all levels, and warmly welcome anyone willing to commit to the time and focus on the craft.

What if I miss one of the classes?

First, you’ll have access to a summary video recording of the exercises covered in class. But if you’d still rather attend in person, there will be limited space for those needing to switch dates. Please get in touch as soon as you are aware, and every effort will be made to accommodate. Refunds can only be given if classes are cancelled. Ability to switch dates is not guaranteed.

Can you tell me more about the class?

The classes will be led by me, Jimmy Grimes. I have designed, directed, performed and taught puppetry for over 10 years. I am currently teaching the Puppetry Module at East 15 Acting School (University of Essex), and have trained puppeteers at Universities, Drama Schools, Festivals and on Theatre Productions internationally. Check out my work on my website!

The format of each class will begin with some demonstrations and explanations of a theory or technique. Then, as a group (at times with cameras off!) everyone will have a chance to experiment with putting those ideas into practice. No one will be asked to present individually unless they are totally comfortable. As the class progresses, the exercises will move into specific puppetry tasks, and time will be given for participants to practice, sharing with others and taking note of feedback where useful.

The end of each class will focus on pulling the lessons together into a simple homework challenge, giving participants time to improve skills and develop ideas. Those wishing for individual feedback can submit videos, or even present to the rest of the class if feeling confident! Summary notes will be forwarded after each class, and access to recorded demonstrations of the exercises will be available for 30 days after the final session.

The aim is to equip participants with an industry-relevant and practical understanding of techniques, that they can apply to their future puppetry work.

What if I have trouble finding the materials required?

The items needed to participate are cheap and readily available. Suggestions for ordering items online will be provided, and should cost no more than £20 in total. If you are unable to bring the required items, or would rather just observe than practically participate, that’s fine too! Please make sure you have a Wifi / Zoom and desktop setup suitable for the class.. Below is an illustration showing the ideal setup

I’m under 18 years old, but devoted to puppetry, can I take part?

This class is only suitable for those aged 18 years and above. If you are younger, please get in touch by email and I will happily let you know of other opportunities.

Is this class useful for primary / secondary school drama teachers?

Yes! It’s a great way to learn some exercises, games and approaches to introducing younger students to puppetry.

Wait, it looks like we’ll just be playing around with balloons and newspaper.. Is that actually useful for proper puppetry?

I’ll keep this short… Every puppet training I’ve ever led or learned from has begun with simple materials. The key principles that I teach are intended to enable a puppeteer to create life and story in anything from a paper towel to a more complex, mechanised creature. One workshop can’t teach you how to puppeteer every puppet you’ll come across. But the principles and practice we’ll explore should prepare you to have a strong start when taking on anything from a paper bag to a multi-puppeteer creation, on stage or screen.

I’m more interested in directing puppetry or observing the class as a writer, director or other creative. Is that possible?

Yes, please let us know when you make your booking. The classes will be equally interesting and informative for those preferring to take a less practical role.