Our Mission

As artists & torchbearers for the ancient and archaic art forms of the puppet, mask and clown; we seek to serve these forms fundamental principles whilst exploring them with the materials, techniques and spirit of our age. We honour the past masters who shared their living traditions with us by paying their kindness forward. Through passing on our knowledge, we touch a future beyond ourselves, ensuring in a small way that the puppet, mask and clown continue to blaze in the imagination of the human race. The following workshops were designed in collaboration with the Neath Port Talbot Arts Team, if you wish to book one of these workshops or discuss a bespoke project, please get in touch.

Introduction to puppetry (1-hour workshop)

An informative demonstration exploring the historic roots, styles and techniques of contemporary puppetry and mask performance. Presented by Jamie & Dino, our resident inquisitive puppet dinosaur. The talk looks at shadow, rod, string, hand & mouth and junk puppets. We will also explore how techniques such as breath, focus and tempo communicate emotion to an audience. (5 - 80 years.)

Shadow Puppetry (1 - 3 hours)

Two artists lead groups of up to thirty children through an exploration of the history, construction techniques and performance of shadow puppetry. Using safe and familiar materials the students will learn how to make simple shadow puppets using card and split pins. Every student will have an opportunity to explore the secrets of the art form and perform their character behind the shadow screen. (5 - 11 years.)

Paper Puppets (1 - 4 hours)

Imaginative use of simple materials gives children and adults the opportunity to make their own performing puppets. Be it a pirate or a princess, the emphasis is on fun and creativity. (5 - 12 years)

Animatronics in an Afternoon (3-hour workshop)

Following an introduction, the group is challenged to create their own animatronic character. Working with foam, fabric and P.A.T. tested equipment the group create a character over a pre-existing animating skeleton. Where time allows the participants can explore the technical and artistic skills required, to bring their character to life before their peers. (8 - 80 years)

Walking with Giants (5-day workshop)

Two artists lead an intergenerational team of 5 - 15 people in the creation of two large processional puppets for community celebrations and parades. Using foam, fabric and aluminium the group will be led through a process of design, construction, and where time allows performance techniques. Creating these highly impactive characters instils a sense of achievement in the participants and provides a fantastic community legacy. (8 - 80 years)

Special Projects (1 - 5 days)

Fred Dragon is an example of a collaboration between Creature Encounter & Neath Port Talbot Arts Team, for their multi-media Icon Project. We created the concept of a living Welsh flag, then facilitated a series of community groups in 3-hour sessions during the course of a week. Fred Dragon then hosted a gala night performance, celebrating the achievements of the young people involved within the larger multi-media project. (8 - 80 years)