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The Importance of Working On Fundamentals

In our puppet practices, we incorporate time to work on puppetry fundamentals at the start and end of practice. In the beginning we work on fundamentals using the strong arm and at the end the weak arm. The three areas we focus on are: entrances and exits, lip synchronization, and arm rod movements.

Without this intentional work on fundamentals, we have the tendency to become sloppy in our practices and performances. We use a manipulation tape purchased from Puppets from One Way Street. This is the least favorite part of practice and often receives groans and complaints.

Don’t just run through them halfheartedly, but focus on doing them right so it becomes a habit whenever you work a puppet.

If you don’t have a practice tape or CD, you can still work on the fundamentals. Have your team get behind the theater and start with entrances and exits. Call the puppets up and down in a variety of ways: top row, bottom row, right handed puppeteers, left handed puppeteers, guys, girls, etc. Watch the puppets and correct any wrong movements. Always keep in mind that practice doesn’t make perfect…practice makes permanent.

Next go on to lip sync. Have the puppets introduce themselves, quote a Bible verse, tell you their favorite color, list their favorite foods, sing a song, etc. Again, make sure the puppeteers drop the lower jaw, don’t bite their words, look down at the audience, etc. Correct any flaws you see.

Finally, go on to arm rod movements. Call the puppets up (proper entrances) and tell them things to do such as: touch their nose, rub the chin, cough, blow kisses, rub tummy, etc. Have them come in and out several times and make sure the entrances and exits are done properly.

When you take time to focus on fundamentals in practice, it will show up in your performances.

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