SchoolArts - May/June 2008

graders were challenged to create a shadow puppet based on a character from a story familiar to them. Students were presented the problem of creating characters that would look interesting in shadow, and that operated with at least two movable parts. As a culminating activity, plans for each student to write and perform a short script behind a handmade shadow screen were discussed.

A full class period was set aside for performance. Hiding behind our improvised screen, each student played the important role of the dhalang for an audience of their peers. Shadowy figures danced across the illuminated screen in our darkened classroom and the art of storytelling was brought to life.

Creating Puppets

Possible characters were brainstormed as a class. Little Red Riding Hood, the Big Bad Wolf, Pinocchio, and the Cat in the Hat were among the many ideas. In the end, many students created characters that had exaggerated or recognizable features. Students sketched their ideas on Manila paper before transferring their final character to gold scratch board.

Movable parts such as arms, tails, and wings were drawn separately on the same piece of scratch board. Using wood scratching tools, students etched intricate patterns and designs onto their characters. Some added texture to show fur or hair. Once their designs were complete, students used scissors to carefully cut out their puppets.

With a small hole punch and tiny brads, students created joints for the movable parts. Each received three wooden skewers—one for the puppet’s handle, the other two as controls for the movable parts. Students partnered up to carefully tape the wooden sticks in place. As they completed their puppets, students set to work on creating a short script for a performance.

While students worked out their designs and stories, I constructed a simple screen out of black museum board and white butcher paper. A large square was cut from the center of the museum board (I left an 8" space at the bottom of the board so that students’ hands would not be seen.) White butcher paper was laid over the square cut-out and taped to the back side of the board. A small stage was created by setting the board onto a table at the front of the roo m. Desk lamps set clos e to the back side of the museum board were use d to illuminate the scre en.