Puppetry

Construction Process

In our group of three, we collaborated on crafting a table-top puppet using styrofoam, a finer-grain alternative to the polystyrene chosen by other groups for larger puppets. Given the puppet's smaller size, precision akin to model making was crucial. Wooden templates of body parts were provided, and we drilled 1.5mm holes, adding small wooden pieces for joints. Styrofoam was affixed using contact adhesive, shaped with a knife, surform, and fine-grain sandpaper. Connecting with thin elastic allowed flexibility. Final touches involved painting with a white PVA mix for a crack-resistant, polished appearance. I focused on the head, arms, legs, waist, and bum.

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Perfomance

Developing a concept and narrative for this petite and challenging puppet proved Extremely Challenging The objective was simplicity with effectiveness. We settled on crafting a manipulable table, aiming to enhance movement and convey a compelling story. While brainstorming, the idea emerged to incorporate a mirror atop the board, creating the illusion of two puppets through the reflection of stage lights. The white puppet against a black backdrop emitted a captivating glow. Initially centered around the puppet's chaotic struggles in daily life, the narrative evolved to portray the board as the metaphorical plateau of life. The puppet, confronted with a view of hell, experiences fear, panic, and ultimately ascends towards the light, symbolizing a journey to heaven.

Collaborating as a group proved challenging in effectively manipulating the puppet to achieve a realistic appearance. However, the feedback highlighted the impactful role of lighting in elevating the simplicity of our concept, infusing a narrative into a genderless and emotionless object. I appreciated the audience's curiosity, sparking questions like why the puppet might have descended into hell or how it met its demise. This open-endedness allowed individuals to craft their own interpretations, making the experience personal or a canvas for their imagination.