This entertaining how-to book, with its simple, step-by-step instructions, makes it easy to create every kind of puppet imaginable — from such handkerchief varieties as Spook-a-boo the Ghost (made with a simple twist of the wrist) for beginners and Flak J. Frog for performers at the intermediate level, to such special figures as a Box of Demons for advanced puppeteers who want to expand their cast of characters. A host of charming little personalities lead the way, among them such "instant" puppets as Bagdad, the paper bag gremlin; the Matchbox Monster, Spoonerella, and Carrie Carrot; "rainy day" puppets that include Robert Robot, Little Miss Muffet, Perky Pup, and Gordo the Wizard; professional puppets such as Pat the Policeman, Bird McDermitt, Klondike Kitty, Honk Kong, the Ape; and dozens of other delightful figures. Scripts for three plays as well as simple designs for stages and props are included, allowing performers of all ages to put on their own shows and have fun bringing their creations to life.

Step-by-step instructions for creating puppets, from simple handkerchief varieties to more advanced puppets for performers wanting to expand their cast of characters. Includes scripts for three plays and simple designs for stages and props. Over 60 black-and-white diagrams and illustrations.

Unlike other performing arts, puppetry is perhaps the only art form in which directing, acting, writing, designing, sculpture, and choreography are combined. In effect, the performer is creating an artistic entertainment that will appeal to audiences of all ages — in homes, in theaters, and in classrooms. This lucid, easy-to-follow book was specifically conceived to teach beginners how to bring a hand puppet to life and how, with practice, to develop the skills needed to mount an amateur puppet show — complete with staging, costumes, and special effects. Award-winning puppeteers Larry Engler and Carol Fijan provide ingenious finger, wrist, and arm exercises that are crucial for creating a full working range of puppet motions and emotions. They also cover the elements of good puppet theatrical technique: speech, voice use, and synchronization; stage deportment and interactions; improvisation, dramatic conflict, role characterization, and more. Every detail is clearly explained and beautifully illustrated with photographs, specific chapters being devoted to the use of props, puppet voices and movements, the construction of simple stages and lighting effects, and much more. A splendid addition to the literature on this subject, Making Puppets Come Alive is "the best book on hand puppetry we've seen." — The Whole Kids Catalog.

Dressing the Naked Hand is for anyone interested in the art of puppetry. Teachers, amateurs, and even professionals will find new ideas and inspiration in the designs created by this trio of puppet enthusiasts. Includes trade secrets, tips, and how-to’s on puppetry unlike anything that has been published before. Puppets aren't just for looking at; they are for doing, and as we found out, they have a mind of their own. This one-of-a-kind how-to is not only an invaluable resource for the puppet artist, but a joy to read. From tongue-in-cheek humor to outright laugh-out-loud hijinks, this book teaches and tells the real story—from a puppet’s point of view. And, while the full-color and detailed how-to and finished puppet illustrations give you most of what you need, if you choose to read the text, well . . . it’s worth your time.