Puppet Making 101

Stage West closes its smash hit run of Noises Off today.  Next up is a brilliantly theatrical play called The Long Christmas Ride Home by Paula Vogel.  It's a "puppet play with actors."  Don't let the puppets fool you:  This play is not for your little kiddos.  That said, I can't wait to see it up and running!  I think it'll be my favorite show this season.  

I've been placed in charge of two elements in the show-

One, several sound effects.  That should be fun.  Justin Flowers and I often claim these tasks as we enjoy the challenges they present.

Two, build one the puppets.  The puppet that I've been assigned is life sized and should resemble one of the leather man from The Village People.   Needless to say, I was thrilled to get this opportunity and started immediately.  

I'm using 1 inch foam to create the head and torso and 1/4 inch foam to make all the facial features and muscles.  Thus far the nose was the hardest element to create.  As the foam is green, I'm "skinning" every bit of it with a skin-toned fabric.  My goal is not necessarily to make it look real but rather to capture this creature in a highly abstract light.  I want him to be completely disarming and a bit amusing.  

I have 3 nights free this week and will be sewing all of the elements together during that time.  I can't wait to see how it all comes together.

The Long Christmas Ride Home opens August 21 and runs through September 14.