“Penny always brings 110% to any project in which she is involved. She is a perfect ensemble member in that she is always trying to problem-solve for the benefit of the project. Her artist’s ego is entirely intact and in the right place - she serves the creative enterprise at hand, seeking the most inventive approaches. She works from a place of joy, even when she is working her hardest.
”

— Debra Wise, Artistic Director, Underground Railway Theater

Meet Penny Benson

Hello and welcome! I'm a puppeteer based in the upstate South Carolina area. Often the word “puppeteer” refers to a performer who brings inanimate objects to life. While I am a performer, I’m also a designer and builder of custom puppets and masks. I also direct and produce performances involving puppets and other performing objects, and have been a educator of performing artists for over 20 years.

As a designer, I work alongside stage, film and event Directors and Producers to determine the needs of a production in terms of storytelling, budget and timeline. Each creation is customized to meet these needs. Sometimes a Director or Producer knows exactly what they want, and sometimes they depend upon me to present them with appropriate choices. Whichever road we take, I see it as my responsibility to serve the storyteller and the story.

As an actor and puppeteer, I bring a unique understanding of how to bring performing objects to life. I can come in as an outside eye, coach or director of puppetry in order to maximize the effectiveness of the puppet characters you employ. We'll work on breath, focus, vocal technique and qualities of movement. And that goes for the performers as well as the puppets!

Please take a look around and let me know how I may assist you.

Thanks for stopping by!

Penny

Teaching / Directing Resume here Design / Build Resume here Acting / Performance Resume here