Stories from Greek mythology have been used in literature, music, visual and performing arts since ancient times. Additionally, advances in computer technology have contributed to the use of myths in computer games and movies. Shadow puppetry offers a creative opportunity for children themselves to explore stories and themes from Greek mythology, using visualization and special effects that are not possible in 3-dimensional puppetry or theatre. At present I am working on a book for children from 3rd to 6th grade, showing how to put up a shadow puppetry performance at home, using stories from Greek mythology. In this context I am offering workshops for classrooms, teachers, museums and libraries. (Travel restrictions may apply.)

Interactive performance workshops

After an introduction of a myth, during which the audience helps act out the beginning of the story, children get to make their own puppet, which will make a brief stage appearance during an improvised closing performance. Stories available include Theseus and the Minotaur, Orpheus and Euridice, and Atalanta. Children under 9 require the help of an adult. (2 1/2 hour, audiences limited. Performances without puppet making possible).

Introductory workshop (teachers and classrooms)

The workshop will start with a brief demonstration, followed by an introduction into puppet making and techniques. Working in teams of two or three, participants will create an assigned character. At the end of the workshop the teams will demonstrate their puppets to the group. The workshop can be used to start a class project, leading to a performance for a wider audience. For teachers, the workshop can serve as an introduction into shadow puppetry, which may be used for a wide range of themes in the classroom.

Residencies

During short term residencies of 6 to 8 weeks I help enable a group performance of 1 to 3 classes, using stories and themes that fit the curriculum. Emphasis is on team work and the creative process as a group, which includes research, script writing, narration, and sound, as well as the creation and and handling of puppets. After an introduction to the theme and a workshop into puppet making, jobs are assigned by the teachers. Due to the size of puppets and screens, performances are not suitable for very large audiences. Active participation of teachers and assistance of other adults is required. Only available for schools or organizations within the region of Princeton, NJ.

Hans Christian Andersen's Emperor Stories (2nd-4th grade)

The Danish story teller Hans Christian Andersen (1805-1875), world famous for his many fairy tales, created puppets and stages as a child, and many paper cuttings as a grownup. In this workshop both interests are combined in shadow puppetry performances of Andersen's two emperor stories. After a brief performance of 'The NIghtingale' the children will make shadow puppets of the emperor's subjects for a group performance of 'The Emperor's New Clothes'.

Wolf Stories (1st-2nd grade to 3rd-4th grade)

Improvising with familiar and less familiar stories around wolves I offer flexible programs, based on the age and skills of the children. All workshops start with a brief performance, followed by an hour of puppet making with the group. The sessions end with an interactive performance in which all children get to use their puppets. Workshops can be single events or series of two to four sessions, in which the children learn about various aspects of shadow puppetry and how to do their own shows.

The Incredible Adventures of Sir James (1st-3rd grade)

Sir James is a knight errant who dreams of rescuing princesses and slaying dragons. Doing so, he faces many dangers. His horse Knightmare usually saves the day.

I visit schools and libraries with interactive shadow puppet performances of a Sir James story as a 'moving picture' book. At schools (1st and 2nd grade) this is done in the context of learning about story structure and plot. At libraries, a half-hour performance is followed by a workshop, in which children make a shadow puppets of a knight, a lady, and  a dragon.