Our sessions began with stories from around the world, told by Xanthe in her firey and very interactive way. We then introduced my puppets, and let the pupils loose with an array of puppet-making materials with the aim of creating their own stories.
Watching this process was fascinating. Plastacine, felt and feathers coming together to form beings and creatures, around which stories were constructed which gave funny and moving glimpses into the childrens' diverse backgrounds, interests, dreams and experiences. We hardly offered any facilitation at all - the children became genius puppet makers and storytellers, and we were enthralled by the performances they created.
This memorable experience took place at a very poignant time for me, as I finish my BA (hons) degree in Puppetry and figure out what place puppets and story are to have in the life that now unravels before me.
http://www.xanthegresham.co.uk/
