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.
A variety of materials and techniques are utilized to meet the various needs of each creation. Material selection is impacted not only by what the object needs to do and convey, but by budget, size, and longevity requirements as well. Additionally, materials say a great deal visually, so the concept is an important part of the discussion. Finally, materials can be manipulated to look like something they are not, an important consideration when performance needs are paramount. Let's talk about what you want to say and how we can best bring it to light!
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