Making and Manipulating Marionettes

Making and Manipulating Marionettes is a comprehensive guide to the design, construction and control of string puppets, a craft and performance art that has fascinated audiences for over two thousand years. Topics covered include: An introduction to the marionette tradition and the principles and practicalities of marionette design Advice on materials and methods for carving, modelling and casting puppet parts Step-by-step instructions for the construction of human and animal marionettes using traditional techniques and latest materials Detailed explanations for marionette control, stringing and manipulation Secrets for achieving a wide range of special effects and traditional acts, tricks and transformations

David Currell, a teacher, semi- professional puppeteer and author of five previous puppet theatre books, is ideally equipped to provide the information and support required for anyone engaged in puppetry. He was co-founder of the National Puppet Centre and its chairperson for nearly twenty years.