At our recent performances at the Grain Shed Taproom, the stage was taken over by puppets. They just walked on the stage like they owned it, making it their playground, and performing every scene with confidence and style. They demanded we do PuppetProv. By the end of the show, it was hard to know who the human players were and who were the puppets.
Why did we let the puppets take over our improv? Great question. The first reason, they did not give us a choice. Suddenly, they swarmed our players and would not leave unless they got to perform. It was a daring move on their part, and it worked. However, this was not the only reason.
Puppets help push the boundaries of improv by introducing a new visual medium on the stage. For the performers, it adds a layer of creativity that allows them to explore new interactions, relationships, and environments. The puppets act as a physical extension of the performer, allowing for exaggerated movements and expressions that can amplify the comedy and character development. They also provide creative freedom, as performers can embody personalities or ideas they might not explore without puppets. The players make bold choices, experiment with quirky voices, and create unexpected banter in every scene.
As we know, improv is not just about the players as they co-create their scenes and characters with the audience. Along with the players getting to experiment with their improv, audiences get to experience a new layer of fun and whimsy. For them, scenes can be more visually dynamic and engaging. They get to experience absurd scenarios that might not happen with just human players, which helps the audience imagine whole new worlds. As the audience, you are invited to embrace the playful nature of the performance, rekindle your childhood spark, and feel more immersed in the on stage antics.
At the end of the day, puppets break down barriers, allowing performers and audiences alike to dive deeper into our collective imagination, spontaneity, and humor. Together we take advantage of all the possibilities for new stories, characters, and comedy.
If you missed our first two shows where we used puppets, do not worry, there are two more opportunities. The chaos and creativity that the puppets brought to the stage return for our next shows on October 4 and October 11 at the Grain Shed Taproom. Bring some friends, grab a drink, panini, pretzel, or other yummy morsel, and prepare for a night of laughter and surprises. You do not want to miss this hilarious blend of improv and puppetry.
We are having so much fun with these puppets, you might see them appear on our regular stage when we are back in our theatre.
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