Frequently Asked Questions
A selection of FAQs
Is PUPPETRY still relevant?
Yes, puppetry continues to evolve and captivate new audiences of all ages with its unique ability to tell stories visually and metaphorically. Puppets still have a sneaky way of tapping into something deep inside the human psyche. Sometimes even the most skeptical audience member can find themselves unexpectedly moved to tears. Puppetry continues to plays a vital role in theatre, film/TV, education, and therapy.
What is CONTEMPORARY Puppetry?
Contemporary puppetry often pushes the boundaries of traditional puppetry by breaking some of the usual rules. The puppet itself may be made from new or experimental materials.
Sometimes new technologies may be incorporated as part of the performance.
What is PUPPET THEATRE for grown ups?
Puppetry more for adults than for kids - It can tackle anything really - from serious real world issues to wild, weird and wonderfully absurd tales that twist reality and mess with your brain!
What is the DARKER Side of Puppetry?
The Darker side of puppetry is not afraid to explore more profound, uncomfortable or even taboo territory. These performances can delve into all sorts of hidden fears and inner struggles but also surprise us with moments of beauty, tenderness and a genuine empathy. On stage, puppet and performer may exist in a sort of half-human, half-puppet hinterland, blending surreal or magic-realism with real-life themes, making it perfect for existential and absurdist writings.
What is EXISTENTIAL Theatre?
Existential theatre explores human existence, notions of freedom, identity and big ‘meaning of life questions’ like ‘Why are we here?’ It often shows characters facing tough choices in strange or uncertain worlds. Examples: Samuel Beckett, Bergman
What is ABSURDIST Theatre?
A relation of existential, absurdist theatre IS absurd, exploring the illogical, random and often ridiculous aspects of life.
Faulty Optic’s work was sometimes described as Absurdist.
Other examples Lynch, Buñuel and Monty Python
What is Micro Cinema Theatre?
MCT is a style of performance that blends the new technologies of video with the manual skills of object manipulation and visual theatre. Often seen in contemporary puppetry, the technique allows creators to devise narratives and effects through a combination of projected imagery, live feed video and stage craft.
Are you still making SHOWS?
I have not made a show for a number of years. At the moment I prefer collaborating or workshopping with other theatre makers and artists. I find sharing the skills that I do have with others very rewarding.
It allows others to consider some of the concepts of Contemporary Puppetry and/or Micro Cinema and incorporate it into their own work if they feel it's relevant.
