Introduction to Puppetry: Object Performance in Theory and Practice

This course will cover the fundamental elements of puppetry performance, scholarship and dramaturgy. We will learn the principles of bringing an object to life (breath, weight, gaze) as well as elements of puppetry meaning-making (image, voice, movement). Every week will focus on a different style of manipulation (marionettes, shadows, tabletop, etc.) and will combine a practical lesson on object animation with short readings on how each style functions dramatically. Over the course of the quarter students will also watch puppetry performances from Manual Cinema to Bunraku to the Muppets. By the end of the course, students will be able to write about any puppetry performance and clearly articulate how different dramatic elements function in the piece and will have some experience with most major puppetry techniques. This is a seminar with a practical element, which means students will both write about puppet shows and make them. No previous performance experience required!