Puppetry workshop with Opposable Thumb Theatre

This practical workshop will start with irreverent play, which in our opinion is the best place to start. We will explore techniques of rhythm, focus and introduce some basic underlying principles of multi operated puppetry. Then the workshop will focus on Opposable Thumb’s key approaches to directing puppetry and the infinite possibilities and specific boundaries this artform presents. We will recreate some of the experiments, games and exercises used to create our latest production Big Boys Don’t cry using the iconic action man doll. This will be a hands-on workshop making, playing, creating and exploring what puppetry can be and do.

Dik Downey has had thirty years’ experience as a puppeteer, performer, puppet maker and director. Using the knowledge he has gained as a member of Green Ginger, co-founder of Pickled Image and now Opposable Thumb Theatre, Dik will examine the relationship between puppet and puppeteer. The workshop will explore various techniques of manipulation and will examine movement, breath and focus.

Emma Williams has been directing puppetry performances for over twenty years. She has directed work for some of the leading puppetry companies and practitioners in the UK including Green Ginger, Pickled Image and Max Humphries. For nine years, she was performance Director for The Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama’s Design and Puppetry production. She is an associate artist at Puppet Place Bristol and curated the professional development strand of The Bristol Festival of Puppetry.
Emma Williams is the director of Big boys don’t cry.

This workshop is designed for creative professionals and students.

Fee includes lunch.