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String Puppet Instructions

String puppets are also known as marionettes. They are controlled by a series of strings that are usually attached to a device known as an airplane controller. Once you gain some knowledge and skill in proper movement techniques involving the controller and the individual strings, you should be able to make the puppets perform a variety of movements. If you are putting on a puppet show, being able to control your puppet well will make your presentation more entertaining and professional.

Things You'll Need

  • String puppet
  • Strings
  • Airplane controller
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Instructions

  1. Foot Movements

    • 1

      Grasp the airplane controller in one hand.

    • 2

      Tilt the "T" section of the controller so that one side is down and one side is up. This will cause one foot to raise.

    • 3

      Reverse the tilt so that the ends of the T-section switch positions. This will cause the other foot to raise. Repeat steps two and three while moving your hand and arm forward or backward to make the puppet walk.

    • 4

      Lift and lower the same side of the T-section repeatedly and lower it without moving the puppet forward or backward. This will make the puppet tap its foot.

    Hand Movements

    • 5

      Grasp the airplane controller in one hand.

    • 6

      Grasp the single line that is connected to both of the puppet's hands in your other hand.

    • 7

      Pull and release the single line in order to make both hands move up and down.

    • 8

      Grasp an individual line running to one hand or the other in order to make one hand move up and down. This creates a waving motion.

    General Body Movements

    • 9

      Grasp the controller between your thumb and forefinger.

    • 10

      Grasp the rear line in your other hand.

    • 11

      Pull the rear line to raise the rear of the puppet.

    • 12

      Tilt the T-section forward as you pull the rear line in order to make the puppet look like it is bowing or bending to pick up something.

    • 13

      Grasp the controller and rock it back and forth as you pull various combinations of lines in order to make the puppet dance.

Childrens Theater

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