Puppet Making Workshop Summer 2026

Learn how to design and build an intermediate-level tabletop rod puppet while developing core puppeteering skills. Through  hands-on construction and guided movement exercises, participants will explore how focus, gesture, and intention help bring a puppet to life. The group will collaborate to create a short, silent movement piece set to music, bringing together making,  movement, and creative collaboration.

In this Puppet Workshop, students will learn the following skills:

• Bringing an original puppet design to life.
• Sculpting a character-driven face in clay and finishing it using professional paper mâché techniques.
• Combining colour, textures of fabrics and accessories to build character.
• Assembling an intermediate tabletop rod puppet with arm rods and articulated legs.
• Designing and building a puppet costume.
• Learning foundational tabletop puppetry movement techniques

KEY INFORMATION

This intensive workshop is suitable for beginners and those with creative experience. The small class size means each participant gets plenty of individual attention, with guidance tailored to their experience and comfort level.

Course fee includes materials.

Instructors:  Alexa Fraser