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Suitable for
All skill levels, age 18+
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Dates
Sunday 1st June 2025
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Tuition
Day course, 10:00–16:00
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Location
Downside Road, Bristol
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Cost
£86
Overview
This practical, one-day course has been designed to provide you with a unique introduction to foundational skills in puppet making. Puppetry plays a pivotal role in the landscape of theatre and TV production. On this course, you will work with expert Meriel Pym to understand the role of puppetry in storytelling. You will also craft your own puppet and acquire insight into materials, construction and movement techniques.
Bristol Old Vic Theatre School offers a fun and nurturing environment in which to pursue your creative ambitions. The support and feedback available from your tutor will help you develop your natural talents and confidence in production skills.
Key highlights
On this course you will:
> Acquire an understanding of the significance of puppetry in storytelling within the TV and theatre industry.
> Explore how puppets best captivate audiences through hands-on exploration of fundamental puppet design principles.
> Receive guidance on how to select the right materials and techniques for crafting different puppet styles.
> Craft your own puppet under the guidance of an accomplished scenic crafts expert.
> Put your skills to practice and receive tips on how to create dynamic and expressive puppet performances.
You will have the opportunity to make your own handcrafted puppet during the masterclass – and to take it home as a personal keepsake! In addition to gaining hands-on experience from a puppetry expert, you will have the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals.
Your tutor
Meriel Pym has worked for over two decades as a scenic artist, prop maker and designer in the theatre, film and television industries. She holds a Theatre Design BA from Nottingham Trent University and a PGCE from Rose Bruford College.
Meriel served for fourteen years at the Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester, creating sets and props for over 140 productions. She has also worked at the Royal Lyceum in Edinburgh, Oldham Coliseum, Bolton Octagon and Manchester International Festival as well as on TV shows including Life on Mars (BBC) and Rovers (SKY TV).
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Is this course for me?
This course is suitable for adults who are both beginners or have some experience already in crafts. You may be interested in crafts as a hobby; a theatre or TV enthusiast with an interest in the potential of puppetry; a production student keen on mastering puppet-making skills; or just fascinated by the artistry and storytelling of puppetry!
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What do I need to bring?
Aprons will be provided. This is a practical course and we would recommend you wear comfortable clothing and shoes that you don’t mind getting paint and glue on! A sketchbook or notebook will be useful, along with any ideas for puppets you may already have, so the tutor can talk through the realisation process with you.
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Admission requirements
Applicants must be aged 18 or over by the time of the course start date.
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Short Courses Refund Policy
If you wish to cancel your place on the course, you will receive a full refund if you notify the school at least 7 days prior to the start of the course. For cancellations, contact [email protected]
- Policies and Procedures
