Looking Back at Puppet Notebook Issue 3 – Living Traditions
Explore the global wonders of puppetry, from Bunraku to Polish Hobby Horses, while celebrating the legacy of John Furse and the latest puppetry reviews and news.
Exploring the Archives: A Glimpse into Puppet Notebook Issue 3
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.