Shadow Puppet (SP) References

Books

Teaching Adult ESL: A Practical Introduction Betsy Parrish, 2004.

Overview of adult ESL teaching methodology for teachers & teachers in preparation. Provides guidance in lesson planning, classroom management, selecting materials, assessment & info on Project Based Learning (see index).

Making Shadow Puppets (Kids Can Do It) by Jill Bryant, pb, 2002.

Uses traditional shadow puppets based on designs from around the world, plus portable screen set-ups, scenery and script ideas. Puppets included a snake, a robot, a flying bird, and a monster.

Worlds of Shadow: Teaching with Shadow Puppetry, David Wisniewski, pb, 1996.

In-depth step-by-step guide. Brief overview of light and screen options, puppet patterns, scripts, projected scenery ideas, and a full range of astounding special effects.

Shadow Puppets & Shadow Play by David Currell, hc, 2008.

Illustrating the work of shadow puppeteers around the world. Traditional and modern techniques are covered, plus puppet design, lighting & staging, & techniques for creating translucent figures.

Shadow Puppet Plays: YouTube Examples

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XynH8fGReec

Lovely example of many possibilities of using an overhead projector for SPs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tNsJ6kDVbfk

Australian shadow puppeteer Richard Bradshaw shows how shadow puppets can communicate a story without words. Google his name for lots more wonderful Bradshaw videos.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mORnErJEEpo

Another Bradshaw SP performance, providing a glimpse backstage as he works the puppets.

Shadow Puppet Construction

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pSVd_0AKTKc

Quick demo of how to make a SP with leg joints attached with brads, also shows the puppet in use.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3haMkXn7dg

How to make SP joints using wire or thread. Translucent orange material is used for the stripes on the tiger (always test translucency of material—some look translucent but are opaque on screen.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aOInvDdMFNE

Great example of how to make an expressive SP face. An example of how to make joint with folded paper. Note fun “Title Page” that uses letters, an unjointed spaceship, and music.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OsdMqNIcrls

Nice use of outlines varying distance from screen to make a scary puppet.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iPRjIIQsSAk

First part of video shows how to make easy SPs without scissors by tearing paper and letting result inspire your puppet. Maybe fun for students who are nervous about drawing skills.

Shadow Puppet Screen Construction

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-hL28SkHf1g

How to use a cardboard box for a SP theater.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZM8YDVY04yk

How to use a manila folder to make a SP theater.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L794nJ6dMA8

How to use a tri-fold display board to make a SP theater. To use for SPs, cover opening with lightweight paper or opaque shower curtain. Add a background by drawing on these materials.

Presenters Contact Info

Barbara Murphy

Coral Berge