Shadow Lab

Build your very own shadow puppet show in this supportive, production-focused class. The class will include a hands-on exploration of different shadow styles, light sources, and design techniques, from flat-pressed puppets and screens, to acetate and overhead projectors, to hand-held light sources and body shadows. Participants will be exposed to different materials, tools, and mechanisms.
Participants will work on a single project over the course of the class. You might come with a story or theme you’d like to work on, or you are welcome to come with nothing in particular in mind — in either case, the instructor will guide you to find, refine, and develop your project, culminating in rough, informal performances for the class at the end of the session. Participants will leave the class with feedback, coaching, and self-reflection that will support their next development steps, and participants will be invited to showcase their work in a future Puppet Showplace Slam.

This is an intermediate/advanced-level class: some foundational puppetry background or related artistic / theatrical experience is recommended. Participants will be expected to work on projects outside of class time.

Cutting tools, practice screens, overhead projectors, sample lighting instruments, card stock, and demo materials will be provided for use during class. We encourage participants to invest in equipment and materials that support your designs and make your show portable and performance-ready. The instructor will provide guidance on sourcing and supplies.

Recommended for adults and teens ages 16+.

Proof of COVID-19 vaccination will be required by or before the first class.

Accommodation: Please communicate any special needs to our staff before registration. We are happy to do our best to accommodate all enrollees.

About the Instructor

Veronica Barron creates & performs physically exuberant theatre, using puppetry, dance, clown, and music. Her work has been supported by Casteliers Festival (Montreal), Les Sages Fous (Trois-Rivieres), the Central Square Theater (Cambridge), the Puppet Showplace Theater (Brookline), the Dance Complex (Cambridge), and the Montreal and Cambridge Arts Councils. She tours internationally as a puppeteer on Kid Koala's live cinema graphic novel Nufonia Must Fall, composes music for theater (Whistler in the Dark, Central Square Theater, Opera House Arts), and facilitates community street spectacle experiences with the School of HONK! community brass band. www.veronicabarron.com