The latest build was a challenge in swiftness and simplicity. Darwin-based Business Unusual needed a neutral puppet of childlike proportions, one without features or finishing, a moving template.
I made two, and the sister puppet – with subtle differences – has been handed over to the students of the wonderful Davina Wright, at UTAS’ Faculty of Theatre and Performance.
Of course there’s no such thing as neutral. Even without features, we unconsciously read volumes into body shape, head form, posture and gesture, and skin colour is a vexed decision. But these puppets come with a blessing to stain them, clad them, alter them in whatever way fits the tale. I look forward to seeing what they become.
‘Puppet is exquisite, she moves better than I do’ – Nicky Fearn, Business Unusual