Marionettes, masks and shadows

Delve into a lively handbook that treats puppetry, masks, and shadow play as adventurous crafts. Beginning with a sweeping look at the marionette’s ancient roots—from Egyptian wooden figures to the elaborate Greek traditions—the text invites readers to trace a fascinating family tree that still branches into modern stages. Along the way, vivid illustrations and anecdotes bring to life the ways early cultures used strings and puppets in both art and ritual.

The guide then moves from history to hands‑on creation, offering clear step‑by‑step advice for choosing a story, building a stage, crafting puppets, masks, and even shadow figures. Practical tips on lighting, costume, and training puppeteers make it easy for teachers, clubs, or curious families to launch their own performances. Filled with playful diagrams and real‑world examples, the book sparks imagination while teaching the fundamentals needed to turn any room into a miniature theatre.