We’re thrilled to share the brand-new Puppet Notebook – Issue 33 (Autumn 2025), a rich and joyful collection of articles, reflections, photography and puppetry insights from across the UK and beyond. This issue is full of thoughtful writing, maker stories, heritage material, contemporary practice, festival reports and more — a real celebration of our community and craft.

What to Expect in This Issue

Issue 33 includes:

• festival reflections, behind-the-scenes making, and interviews,

• exploring folk puppetry, Hooden Horses and process-driven practice,

• features on training, craft, documentation and international puppetry,

• beautiful photography and visual storytelling throughout.

This is one of our most generous issues yet — we’re so excited to share it with you.

Read more

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Puppet work has always taken many forms and dimensions: from Punch and Judy and other small-scale hand, rod and marionette work within the confines of a booth, to large-scale festival, pageant and street performance.

In recent years, this spectrum has expanded: an explosion of large-scale work has captured the public imagination – from Royal de Luxe’s The Sultan’s Elephant to the 2022 Commonwealth Games Bull, saved from destruction after a public outcry, to the evocative walk made by Walk with Amal. At the same time, there has been a surge of interest in very small-scale work: Gavin Glover’s micro cinema theatre, Puppet Soup’s Teatro Lambe Lambe course, and the renaissance of tiny puppets.

Articles might explore:

• The particular inspirational quality of very large-scale work and its contribution to the public perception of puppets and puppetry

• The reasons behind the increase in extremely large- and small-scale work

• The role of the puppeteer in large- and small-scale work – what differs, what connects

• How audiences experience micro-puppets compared with macro-puppets

Who should apply?

Articles could take the form of a personal insight or experience, an interview with a practitioner, or a critical exploration of historical or contemporary practice and reception. We aim for a balance of practitioner and viewer perspectives, and also invite reviews of recent productions and books.

Submission guidelines:

• Articles and essays: approx. 2,000 words (negotiable)

• Production and book reviews: 500–1,000 words

• Please contact editor-in-chief Tim Butler Garrett at tbutlergarrett@hotmail.com to discuss proposals.

Publication details

Puppet Notebook contains news, features, reviews and interviews on puppets and animation in theatre, film and art worldwide. Each issue includes specially commissioned photographs, drawings, and contributions from international correspondents, as well as a diary of forthcoming performances and workshops.

It is published twice a year, available from selected bookshops and theatres, and sent free to members of British UNIMA.

📅 Deadline for proposals: 30 November 2025

The twentieth edition of Puppet Notebook explores cutting-edge innovations in puppetry, shedding light on emerging talents and ground-breaking techniques within the field.

Highlights from This Issue

• "Puppets in the Digital Age" by Lucy Childs – An exploration of how digital technology is transforming traditional puppet performance.

• "Shadows and Silhouettes: A Revival" by Mark Whitaker – A look at the resurgence of shadow puppetry on contemporary stages.

• "Crafting with Care: The Art of Sustainable Puppets" by Eleanor Margolies – A focus on eco-friendly materials and techniques for puppet construction.

• "Animating History: Bringing Historical Figures to Life" by Matthew Cohen – An in-depth analysis of historical storytelling through puppetry.

Embracing New Directions

This edition not only celebrates the artistry of traditional puppetry but also highlights the innovative approaches that are pushing the boundaries of the craft.

Additional Features

As always, readers will find the latest news, reviews, and diary entries covering national and international puppetry events, ensuring you're up to date with the global puppetry scene.

The nineteenth edition of Puppet Notebook delivers a compelling exploration of Ephemeral Animation and other innovative puppetry techniques. This issue features insightful interviews, practical techniques, and thought-provoking essays from leading puppeteers and scholars.

Highlights from this Issue

• "Ephemeral Animation" by Nenagh Watson – An examination of temporary and fleeting forms of puppetry that push the boundaries of the medium.

• Exclusive Interview with Canadian Puppet Master, Ronnie Burkett – A deep dive into Burkett's creative process and philosophy, alongside a special article on papier-mâché techniques.

• "A Modern Mash Up" by Matthieu Rene – A quick and efficient method for crafting small parts with paper, perfect for puppetry projects.

• "The Imagination of The Hand: An Essay on Uncanny Life" by Mischa Twitchin – A theoretical exploration of the hand's role in animating puppets.

• "Wire That Runs" by Isabel Lyster – An informative view of design and puppetry in Prague.

• **"Breaking the Liminal Space" – An interview with Alexander Winfield, discussing his unique approach to puppetry and performance.

Additional Features

This issue also includes the latest news, reviews, and diary updates from the UK and international puppetry scene, ensuring readers stay connected with the global puppetry community.

The eighteenth issue of Puppet Notebook offers news and insights from the UK and beyond, with a focus on applied puppetry and innovative performances

Highlights from the Puppetry World

• Upcoming Events: Advance notice of the Symposium on Applied Puppetry at the Little Angel Theatre, the 'Puppet as Performer' Workshop by Gavin Glover of Faulty Optic, and the Puppets on Film Festival.

Feature Articles

• "Kefar Nahum" by Carole Guidicelli – An exploration of Compagnie Mossoux-Bonté's evocative performance.

• "Presence in Fragments: The Performer-Puppeteer in Théâtre de la Licorne and Point-Zéro" by Marie Garre Nicoara – A study of fragmented presence in puppet performance.

• "Site-Specific Puppets in Beirut's Abandoned Train Stations" by Randy Ginsburg – An examination of puppetry in unconventional spaces.

Interview and Reviews

• Interview with Noriko Nishimoto, Artistic Director of Spare Parts Puppet Theatre in Fremantle, Western Australia.

• Festival Report: Isabel Lyster reflects on a puppet festival in St Petersburg.

• Review of "A Dog's Heart" (1927) – Penny Francis critiques the puppet adaptation by Complicité and Blind Summit, produced by the Netherlands Opera.

• Review of Gyula Molnár's latest object theatre creation, by Karen Karin Rosenberg.

Diary of Events

Includes the usual selected diary of UK and international events, such as:

• 16th World Festival of Puppet Theatres in Charleville-Mézières (16-25 September 2011)

• 21st Congress of UNIMA in Chengdu, China (28 May-4 June 2012)

With 24 black and white photographs, this 28-page edition is an essential resource for puppet enthusiasts and practitioners alike.

The seventeenth issue of Puppet Notebook, published in Spring 2010 by British UNIMA, delivers a rich and diverse collection of articles, reviews, and updates from the world of puppetry.

Highlights and Features

• "A Fable of Our Time: Meeting Czech Designer Petr Matásek" by Rachel Riggs – An engaging profile of the influential designer and his creative journey.

• "Lively Research: The 2nd Scène des Chercheurs Conference in Paris" by Paul Piris – An insightful look into the lively debates and innovations in puppetry research.

• "In The Shape of A Person – The Variety of Ritual Uses of Effigy in Japan (Part 2)" by Jane Marie Law – Continuing the exploration of effigies and their cultural significance in Japanese tradition.

• "Banished: A Puppet Film Made by Young People" by Meg Amsden – A case study on empowering youth through puppetry and storytelling.

• "Experiencing Puppets for the First Time in Uganda" by Drew Colby – A first-hand account of discovering puppetry in a unique cultural context.

• "Tolosa's New Puppet Centre" by Maria San Sebastián Poch – An exploration of the vibrant new puppet hub in Spain.

News and Updates

• The reprieve of the Erlangen Festival in Germany.

• The launch of the National Puppetry Archive, preserving the history and legacy of puppetry in the UK.

Additional Content

This edition concludes with the UK and International diary of forthcoming events, offering readers a comprehensive guide to upcoming festivals, workshops, and performances around the world.

The sixteenth issue of Puppet Notebook, published by British UNIMA, delves into the intriguing balance between wildness and control in puppetry. This edition offers a rich selection of articles, reviews, and insights into contemporary puppetry practices.

Key Features and Highlights

• Report on the BrUNIMA 2009 AGM at the Suspense Festival (London) – A comprehensive review of this significant gathering.

• "Indigenous Communities and Puppetry" by Sandy McKendrick – Exploring puppetry's role in preserving and expressing indigenous culture.

• "Faulty Optic: Fish Clay Perspex Endings" by Liz Walker – A deep dive into the unique aesthetics and storytelling of Faulty Optic.

• "Puppets of Nostalgia" (extract) by Jane Marie Law – Examining the variety of ritual uses of effigies in Japan.

• Eleanor Margolies' reviews from the World Festival of Puppetry at Charleville-Mézières (September 2009).

• Gael Le Comec's review of Spetaculo Interesse: A Puppetry Festival in the Czech Republic.

Additional Content

This issue is rounded off with the Diary Section, offering up-to-date listings of major UK and international events scheduled for 2010, as well as reviews of the latest books on South African and Asian puppet theatre.

Capturing the Essence of Puppetry

With 39 black and white photographs, this 28-page A4-sized edition captures the dynamic and evolving world of puppetry, blending tradition with innovation.

The fifteenth edition of Puppet Notebook brings readers the latest updates on puppet festivals and the evolving world of puppetry. From unique exhibitions to insightful interviews, this issue offers a diverse and engaging collection of articles.

Festival Highlights and Global Perspectives

• Reports from Dordrecht and Evora Festivals – Capturing the energy and creativity from these international gatherings.

• Advance Notices – Upcoming highlights include the Skipton Puppet Festival (October 2009) and the Suspense Festival in London (November 2009).

Exclusive Features

• "A Life in Paper" – An Interview with Alan Lecucq – Exploring his involvement in contemporary toy theatre.

• John Dudley’s Unique Miniature Exhibition – A puppet history in stamps, a one-of-a-kind collection.

• "The Influence of Japanese Puppet Theatre on a British Puppeteer" by Nenagh Watson – A cross-cultural exploration.

• "When Object Becomes Actor" by Anne-Laure Futin – Examining the transformation of inanimate objects into performing characters.

• "Puppets in Taiwan" by Chris Abbott – A look at puppetry traditions and innovations from Taiwan.

Additional Features

This edition also includes the latest book and performance reviews, along with a comprehensive diary of national and international events, ensuring readers stay up to date with the global puppetry scene.

The fourteenth edition of Puppet Notebook delves into the rich traditions and experimental frontiers of puppetry, with a special focus on Swedish and European influences.

Feature Articles

• "Kaspar in Sweden, Part 2" by John Morley – Continuing the exploration of Swedish puppetry traditions.

• "Anton Anderle" by Juraj Hamar – A further tribute to the Slovak puppetry master.

• "Vernon Lee's Puppet Show" by Sophie Geoffroy – An analysis of puppetry in the literary imagination.

Reviews and Reflections

• Eleanor Margolies' review of Central School's Third Student Puppet Festival in London.

• John Morley's exploration of Thy Teater, an experimental theatre in Denmark.

• Mark Whitaker's review of David Leech's new book on Pelham Puppets.

Special Features

• A dedication to the 80th anniversary of UNIMA, founded in May 1929.

• The usual News and Diary sections, keeping readers updated on British and international puppetry events.

A4 format, 28 pages with 25 black-and-white illustrations.

The thirteenth edition of Puppet Notebook, edited by Eleanor Margolies, brings together rich cultural perspectives and historical insights from around the world.

Feature Articles

• "Anton Anderle" by Juraj Hamar – A tribute to the legendary Slovak puppeteer.

• "Out of the Box: South African Puppet Festival" by Drew Colby – An exploration of contemporary South African puppetry.

• "Kaspar in Sweden, Part 1" by John Morley – A study of Swedish puppetry traditions.

• "Carl Wilhelm Chemnitz on the Marionette Theatre" by Johannes Richter – A historical analysis of European marionette performance.

• "Unveiled: Horse & Bamboo" by Mark Whitaker – A look into this innovative British puppetry company.

• "The Ethics of Puppetry" by Anna Furse – A thought-provoking examination of moral and social responsibility in puppetry.

• "Subliminal Threats: Fidena 2009" by Karen Karin Rosenberg – Insights from the international puppetry festival in Germany.

• "Chinese Shadow Puppetry: Wei Chao Visits London" by Matthew Isaac Cohen – A cultural exchange between China and the UK.

Keeping You Informed

In addition to the usual news, diary, and international sections, this issue offers 26 black-and-white illustrations across 28 pages, providing a visual and textual celebration of puppetry worldwide.

The twelfth edition of Puppet Notebook is a special issue on Scotland, guest edited by Simon Hart of Puppet Animation Scotland. This edition explores the unique ethos and creativity of Scottish puppetry and its role in both traditional and contemporary performance art.

Features and Company Profiles

• "Aesthetic Ambition and Strategic Support" – An analysis of the Puppet Animation and Manipulate Festivals.

• "Helping Aspiring Puppeteers" by Emma Whitters – Insights into training and nurturing emerging talent.

• "Clydebuilt Puppet Theatre" by Leigh McCalister – A profile of this renowned Scottish company.

• "The Puppet Lab" by Symon MacIntyre – A look at innovative puppet experimentation.

• Interviews with Shona Reppe and Colin Purves – Exploring their journeys and family traditions in puppetry.

Resources and Reviews

• "The World Through Wooden Eyes" by John M. Blundall – A reflection on puppetry as an art form.

• "The Scottish Mask and Puppet Centre" by Malcolm Knight – An overview of this key institution.

• A review of Birtwhistle's Opera of Punch and Judy.

Staying Current

As always, this issue includes the latest news, book reviews, and a diary of upcoming British and international events.

A4 format, 28 pages with 50 black-and-white illustrations.

Features and Dispatches

• "A Deaf Puppeteer in New York City in the 1880s" by Ryan Howard – A historical look at how disability shaped puppetry performance.

  

• "Life, Communication, and Play" by Ann Campion – An investigation into the therapeutic power of puppetry.

• "Devils and Fiends in Traditional Puppet Theatre" by Juraj Hamer – An exploration of demonic characters in European puppetry traditions.

• "Warm-Up and Play Through Three Puppetry Workshops" by Alissa Mello – A practical guide to enhancing creativity through puppetry workshops.

• "Objects in Transition: The Trajectory of Kazuko Hohki's Performances" by Jiwon Yang – A study of object manipulation and storytelling.

Reviews and Reflections

• "Punch, Polcinelle, and Pulcinella" by Michael Byrom – Reviewed by Mark Whitaker.

• "Puppets and Performing Objects: A Practical Guide" by Tina Bicat – Reviewed by Penny Francis.

Keeping You Connected

In addition to the latest book reviews, this issue provides the usual news and diary sections, ensuring readers stay up-to-date with international puppetry events and developments.

A4 black-and-white glossy publication, 28 pages with 40 black-and-white photos.

The tenth edition of Puppet Notebook is dedicated to Puppetry Research in Britain and highlights newly emerging developments in the field. This issue showcases the work of twelve researchers, each with a unique area of expertise, offering fresh insights into puppetry's past and present.

Exploring Puppetry Through Research

• "Puppets on The Barricades: Recollections of Performing in the Warsaw Uprising" by Krystyna Berwinska – A personal account of puppetry as a form of resistance during WWII.

• "Assistive Technology: The Puppet and Process in Education and Therapy" by Caroline Astell-Burt – Investigating how puppetry can support learning and therapy.

• "Three Puppeteers at the Old Bailey (1674-1834)" by Ryan Howard – An exploration of historical puppet performances in London's legal heart.

• "Puppets in Pantomime – From Speciality Act to Superstar Duck" by Chris Abbott – Tracing the evolution of puppetry in British pantomime.

A Platform for Puppetry Scholars

This edition provides a platform for twelve dedicated researchers, each offering unique perspectives and in-depth analysis on various aspects of puppetry history, performance, and cultural significance.

Additional Features

In addition to the feature articles, this issue includes the editorial foreword, breaking news, and diary events from the UK and around the world, ensuring readers stay informed about the latest developments in the puppetry community.

The ninth edition of Puppet Notebook is a special themed issue dedicated to Masks: Ancient and Modern, guest edited by Dr Malcolm Knight of the Scottish Mask & Puppet Centre. This edition delves into the rich history and contemporary practice of mask theatre, with contributions from leading practitioners and researchers who have dedicated their careers to the art of mask-making and performance.

Exploring the World of Masks

• "The Body and Mask in Ancient Theatre Space" by Margaret Coldiron – A review of an AHRC research project exploring the role of masks in ancient performance spaces.

• "Menander and the Masks of Lipari" by Adriano Iurissevich (Venezia INScena) – An examination of classical mask traditions from ancient Greece and Rome.

• "Recreating Ancient Masks" by Malcolm Knight – Insights into the historical reconstruction of ancient masks and their performance potential.

• Interview with Ninian Kinnier-Wilson – A professional mask-maker's perspective on techniques and materials.

• "Creating a New Commedia Mask Set" by David Griffiths – A profile of Griffiths’ work in reviving Commedia dell'Arte mask traditions.

• "From the Mask Studio to the Glasshouse Mask Centre" by Mike Chase – A look at Chase's creative journey and the upcoming UK International Mask Festival (19-29 October 2007).

• "Mask Theatre" by Bob Frith (Horse & Bamboo Theatre) – An exploration of mask-based storytelling and visual theatre.

• "Latest Developments at Trestle Theatre" by Emily Gray – How Trestle Theatre continues to innovate with mask performance.

• "Masks in Action" by Tony Davies (Trading Faces) – A focus on their latest production "Alice" and a new publication on mask performance.

Additional Features

This issue also includes the latest news, reviews, and diary updates, alongside a dedicated section on newly published mask-related books. With 36 black-and-white illustrations across 28 pages in an A4 glossy format, this edition is a comprehensive resource for those passionate about the art of masks in theatre and performance.

Published by British UNIMA, September 2007.

Meeting the Audience: A Look Back at Puppet Notebook Issue 8

In this edition of Puppet Notebook, the spotlight falls on the art of audience connection, examining how puppetry bridges cultural divides and engages viewers through both traditional forms and innovative technologies. With 28 pages and 30 black-and-white line drawings and photographs, this issue captures the diversity and creativity of contemporary puppetry.

A Prelude to Perth: The 2008 UNIMA Congress & Festival

A key feature of this issue is a preview of the upcoming UNIMA Congress & Festival in Perth, Western Australia, scheduled for 2-12 April 2008. This major international gathering promises to bring together puppeteers, scholars, and enthusiasts from across the globe to share ideas, celebrate traditions, and explore new directions in puppetry.

Exploring Puppetry's Power to Connect

In keeping with the theme of Meeting the Audience, this issue delves into a range of productions and projects that showcase puppetry’s unique ability to captivate and communicate across different mediums and cultures.

• "The Fear Brigade" by Adrian Mitchell – A powerful production that used giant masks and puppets to confront themes of fear and oppression.

• "The Virtual Puppeteer: Improvisation in the Digital Age" by Lucy Childs – An exploration of digital puppetry and real-time performance, where technology allows puppeteers to interact with audiences in virtual environments.

• "In Search of an Audience: The Fate of Traditional Arts in Cambodia and Malaysia" by Robert Fowler – A thoughtful reflection on the challenges faced by traditional puppeteers in Southeast Asia as they strive to keep ancient art forms alive in a rapidly changing world.

News, Reviews, and Diary Updates

Alongside these in-depth features, Puppet Notebook Issue 8 includes the latest book reviews, offering valuable insights into new publications on puppetry history, technique, and performance. The British and International Diary section provides an up-to-date guide to festivals, workshops, and events, keeping readers connected to the global puppetry community.

Issue 8: Where Tradition and Innovation Meet the Audience

From the raw physicality of giant puppets to cutting-edge digital improvisation and the preservation of traditional performance, Puppet Notebook Issue 8 reveals the extraordinary versatility of puppetry as an art form. It is a celebration of how puppeteers continue to adapt and innovate while staying rooted in cultural heritage, always with the audience at the heart of the performance.

If you would like to send something, submission guidelines: 2,000 words for articles and essays (though this is negotiable), 500 – 1,000 words for production and book reviews. Please contact editor-in-chief Tim Butler Garrett as soon as possible at tbutlergarrett@hotmail.com to discuss proposals. The deadline for completed articles will be the 20th February 2021.

Issue 7 of Puppet Notebook delves into the theme of "New Life for Old Things", exploring how puppetry not only breathes fresh energy into traditional forms but also considers the importance of documenting today’s performances for future generations.

With 25 pages and 34 black-and-white photographs, this issue captures the vibrancy of global puppetry, from shadow theatre festivals to the challenges of theatre preservation.

Theatre in Transition: Preserving Puppetry’s Legacy

One of the pressing issues covered in this edition is the trouble faced by London’s Theatre Museum, highlighting the struggle to preserve live performance history. Alongside this, readers will find an overview of British UNIMA’s activities in 2005-06, offering insight into the work being done to support puppetry in the UK.

Under the Dispatches section, this issue includes:

• A review of the 7th International Shadow Theatre Festival in Schwäbisch Gmünd (Germany) by Zannie Fraser, offering a glimpse into this dynamic art form’s latest innovations.

• A profile of puppet theatre director, Lily Herzberg, written by Paul Herzberg and Adrian Kohler, celebrating her contributions to the field.

• Restoring hope in Bali – Rucina Ballinger examines the work of dalang I Made Sidia, a master of Balinese puppetry.

• The International Festival at Charleville-Mézières, reviewed by Anna Ingleby, showcasing one of the world’s most renowned puppetry festivals.

• South African puppetry – Penny Francis explores the diversity and creativity emerging from the region.

• Icarus in the Megapolis (Berlin) – Hartmut Topf reflects on puppetry’s place in a rapidly changing urban landscape.

Puppetry as a Tool for Awareness and Education

This issue also includes a feature by Thomas Riccio, Follow the Grey Giants, exploring how puppetry is being used as a new medium for health awareness in Kenya. As seen in previous issues, puppetry continues to prove itself as a powerful educational tool, capable of conveying complex messages in an engaging and accessible way.

Lesley Butler’s article, Behind the Scenes at Puppet Planet, offers an insider’s perspective on the workings of a puppet company, shedding light on the craft behind the magic.

News, Reviews, and Diary Updates

As always, Puppet Notebook rounds out its pages with performance and book reviews, ensuring readers stay informed on the latest publications and productions.

The UK and International Diary section provides essential listings of festivals, workshops, and exhibitions, while a unique Philately News section highlights puppetry’s presence in the world of stamp collecting.

Issue 7: A Celebration of Puppetry’s Past, Present, and Future

Whether through documenting performances, reviving traditions, or using puppetry for education, this issue highlights the many ways puppetry continues to evolve. Puppet Notebook Issue 7 is an essential read for those interested in how puppetry both preserves its roots and forges new paths into the future.

Issue 6 of Puppet Notebook embraces a truly international perspective, exploring the ways puppetry is used not only as an art form but as a tool for education, transformation, and social awareness. Titled Calling Out Around the World, this edition highlights puppetry’s role in training performers, fostering understanding, and tackling real-world issues.

With 28 pages and 50 black-and-white illustrations, this issue is filled with insightful articles covering everything from puppetry in healthcare to avant-garde performance.

Global Perspectives on Puppetry

The issue opens with Maiju Tawast’s piece on Finland in transformation, examining how puppetry reflects and responds to societal shifts. Puppets, as ever, are not just performers—they are storytellers of cultural change.

A major feature comes from Eleanor Margolies, who provides a detailed overview of the Handspring Puppet Company from South Africa. Known internationally for their groundbreaking work on War Horse, Handspring continues to push the boundaries of puppetry, blending technical innovation with deep emotional storytelling.

Meanwhile, Penny Saunders’ article Horsing About takes a closer look at the experimental world of Forkbeard Fantasy, a company known for its surreal and multimedia-infused puppetry.

Puppetry for Education and Social Awareness

One of the most powerful aspects of puppetry is its ability to engage audiences in health and education initiatives.

In this issue, Thomas Riccio explores the use of puppets in health awareness programmes in Kenya. Puppetry has long been a powerful communication tool, and in this context, it is being used to address critical health challenges in engaging and accessible ways.

Alongside this, Tony Mboyo discusses Classroom Ethics, offering insights into how puppets can be used to foster discussions on morality, decision-making, and social responsibility in educational settings.

News, Reviews, and International Diary Updates

As always, Puppet Notebook keeps readers informed with its news and reviews sections, covering the latest books, performances, and developments in the world of puppetry.

The British and International Diary section rounds out the issue, offering a guide to upcoming festivals, exhibitions, and workshops, ensuring that puppetry enthusiasts stay connected with events both at home and abroad.

Issue 6: Puppetry as a Universal Language

With its focus on training, education, and global engagement, Puppet Notebook Issue 6 demonstrates how puppetry is far more than just entertainment—it is a powerful tool for change.

Through storytelling, performance, and creative expression, puppets continue to call out across the world, bridging cultures, sparking conversations, and making complex ideas accessible to all.

Issue 5 of Puppet Notebook takes a deep dive into puppetry’s place at the intersection of the visual and performing arts. From traditional forms to avant-garde experiments, this issue showcases the breadth of puppetry’s artistic influence, exploring how it connects with movements such as Dada, contemporary object theatre, and ritual performance.

With 28 pages and 44 black-and-white illustrations, this issue is packed with global perspectives, historical insights, and thought-provoking reviews.

Puppetry and the Visual Arts: Paul Brann and the Dada Movement

A highlight of this edition is Mischa Twitchin’s fascinating review of the impact of Paul Brann and the Munich Artists’ Marionette Theater on visual artists during the Dada movement. This article sheds light on how puppetry played a role in shaping early 20th-century avant-garde art, challenging traditional aesthetics and performance conventions.

Adding to the Munich connection, Geoff Felix takes us inside the world’s largest puppet collection, housed at the Munich City Museum. Founded by Ludwig Kraft in 1940, this museum offers a remarkable glimpse into puppetry’s artistic evolution.

Puppetry Across Borders: Lahore and Rajasthan

The international scope of puppetry continues with Juliet Middleton of Movingstage Marionettes, who writes about their company’s journey to Lahore, India. This piece provides an insightful reflection on cross-cultural puppetry collaborations and performances.

Meanwhile, Poh Sim Plowright returns with her second article on Rajasthani puppet theatre, this time focusing on the function of ritual within these performances. Her research delves into how puppetry serves both sacred and social roles in traditional Indian theatre.

Music, Object Theatre, and Puppetry on Stage

In a striking blend of music and puppetry, Eleanor Margolies reviews Schubert’s Song Cycle, brought to life by Thomas Guthrie through animated visual storytelling. This article highlights how puppetry can add new layers of meaning to classical music performances.

On the contemporary end, Natalie Naraine shares her experience working in object theatre with Gavin Skerritt at Stratford Circus. This piece explores the expressive possibilities of everyday objects in storytelling, demonstrating puppetry’s ability to transform the mundane into the magical.

Reviews, News, and International Diary Updates

Issue 5 also includes a review by Matthew Cohen of Eileen Blumenthal’s Puppets and Puppetry**, a must-read for those interested in the history and artistry of the craft.

As always, the issue is rounded out with the latest news, festival reports, workshops, exhibitions, and museum updates from around the world, ensuring readers stay connected to the ever-evolving world of puppetry.

Issue 5: A Celebration of Puppetry’s Artistic Influence

With its compelling mix of historical analysis, global perspectives, and cutting-edge performance reviews, Puppet Notebook Issue 5 is an essential read for anyone interested in puppetry’s role as both a visual and theatrical art form.

Dive into this edition to discover how puppetry continues to inspire, innovate, and blur the boundaries between tradition and experimentation.

In Issue 4 of Puppet Notebook, we take a closer look at an important theme: how puppets can take us to places beyond the reach of human actors. What is it that puppets can do that live performers simply cannot? It’s a theme that runs through the pages of this issue, offering a fascinating exploration of the unique role puppetry plays in storytelling and performance.

Puppet Notebook Issue 4 provides a thought-provoking array of articles that delve into puppetry’s expanding reach. The issue features exclusive contributions from some of the world’s leading puppeteers and scholars, and covers a range of global puppetry traditions and innovations.

A Glimpse into the World of Puppetry: Key Features from Issue 4

One of the standout pieces comes from Martin Bridle, who offers an intriguing look at the world of puppetry in Korea. This feature highlights the unique techniques and cultural context of Korean puppetry, drawing attention to how the art form reflects the country’s traditions and modern sensibilities.

Another article to explore is Chris Abbott’s discussion on Virtual Puppets in the Classroom. With the rise of digital technology, puppets have found new life in the virtual world. Abbott’s article examines how puppetry is being integrated into classrooms, engaging students in fresh and exciting ways.

Puppet Notebook also takes us to Seville, with Jo Munton’s article on Puppetry in Seville. This piece showcases the vibrant puppetry scene in the Spanish city, where tradition and innovation come together to create a dynamic puppetry culture.

The Global Landscape of Puppetry: Cultural Insights

The theme of puppetry’s ability to transcend the ordinary continues with Poh Sim Plowright’s piece on the Desacralisation of Puppetry in Rajasthan. Here, Plowright examines the shifting role of puppets in Indian culture, where they have historically held sacred significance, and how they are now evolving into forms of entertainment and social commentary.

Also featured is an article on the Hungarian puppetry revival, written by Bennie Pratasik. This piece offers an insightful look at the resurgence of puppetry in Hungary, particularly through the work of János Pályi, whose puppetry is helping to reinvigorate the Hungarian puppet scene.

The Usual Reviews, News, and Updates

As always, Puppet Notebook keeps you informed with its regular sections on news, reviews, and diary updates. This issue provides the latest happenings in the world of puppetry, with updates from the UK and beyond, making it a vital resource for anyone passionate about the art form.

Issue 4: A Rich Tapestry of Puppetry’s Past, Present, and Future

With 28 pages of rich content, including insightful articles, informative reviews, and the essential updates on global puppetry events, Puppet Notebook Issue 4 provides a comprehensive look at the evolving world of puppetry. Whether you’re a seasoned puppetry enthusiast or just starting to explore this fascinating art form, this issue offers valuable perspectives on the role of puppetry in leading us into new and exciting worlds.

So why not take a step into the pages of Puppet Notebook Issue 4? Discover how puppets continue to break boundaries, tell untold stories, and transport us into realms that only they can access.

Welcome back to Puppet Notebook, where we dive into the rich history and vibrant traditions of puppetry. Today, we’re revisiting Issue 3 of the BrUNIMA Puppet Notebook, a special edition that celebrates "Living Traditions." If you're familiar with the series, you'll know that each issue shines a light on different aspects of puppetry, from its roots to its modern-day manifestations. But for those new to our journey, let’s take a moment to look back.

Living Traditions: A Global Perspective on Puppetry

Issue 3 takes a look into puppetry from around the world, focusing on the ways in which these art forms are being preserved, transformed, and passed down through generations. This issue offers a treasure trove of insights into a variety of fascinating traditions.

The highlight? An exploration of Bunraku, the traditional Japanese puppet theatre that has captivated audiences for centuries. Known for its complex puppets and dramatic performances, Bunraku continues to be an iconic art form. We also travel to Poland to learn about their Hobby Horses, a celebration of folk traditions that have deep cultural roots.

But it doesn't stop there. The issue ventures into Shadow Worlds, where the magic of puppetry meets the mesmerising realm of video in motion, creating a truly unique fusion of visual art and storytelling. Alongside these features, the Skipton Puppetry Festival gets a well-deserved mention, marking an important event in the contemporary puppetry calendar.

Take a look back at Skipton Festival 2019:

In Memoriam: John Furse

This issue also holds a special tribute to John Furse, an influential figure in the puppetry community. Through an insightful portrait and obituary, we remember his contributions to the field, honouring his legacy. It’s a reminder that puppetry, as much as it is about performance, is about the people who help shape it.

Reviews and Insights

As always, Puppet Notebook takes a critical look at the latest in puppetry. In Issue 3, we get a comprehensive review of Klappmaul Theatre from Germany, a company that continues to push the boundaries of puppetry in performance. There’s also a fascinating piece on Potudan from Russia, providing a window into the diverse and ever-evolving world of puppetry across the globe.

We can't forget the books! Issue 3 reviews two fantastic reads: "The Secret Life of Puppets" by Nelson and "Making and Manipulating Marionettes" by Currell. Whether you're a seasoned puppet master or just starting, these books are essential reading for anyone interested in understanding the craft and history of puppetry.

Stay Informed: News & Diary

The News and Diary sections of the notebook are always packed with the latest updates from the world of puppetry. From upcoming performances to noteworthy events, it’s your go-to resource for staying up-to-date with what’s happening in the puppetry community.

With 28 pages of thought-provoking articles, 36 photographs, and the unique A4 black-and-white format, Issue 3 of Puppet Notebook serves as both a historical look at the global traditions of puppetry and a contemporary snapshot of its thriving future.

As we turn the pages of this issue and look back on these living traditions, we invite you to reflect on how they continue to shape our understanding of puppetry today. Whether you're an avid enthusiast or new to the scene, this edition offers something for everyone.

So, what are you waiting for? Take a trip through the archives and immerse yourself in the world of puppets—where tradition and innovation dance together in every performance.

Feel free to revisit our archives anytime, and stay tuned for the next edition, where we’ll continue to explore the fascinating world of puppetry.