ABOUT THE BOOKThe art of the marionette is becoming quite rare in our time, possibly due to the difficulties with making, performing and transporting them. But many people, young and old, still have a romantic love for marionettes, fascinated by this magical artform. Alida has met people of all walks of life who dream of making at least one marionette in their lifetime.
This book unlocks many of the mysteries about making and controlling marionettes, whether you want to make one for a school project, use it in a drama production or become a fully-fledged marionetteer yourself! Topics include designing your puppet, working with wire and paper maché, deciphering the mystery of the marionette control, preparing for performing and much more. All of this seasoned with Alida’s lovely sense of humour and honest advice. The reader is sure to find the book a lot of fun, as a hands-on resource or an interesting window into the world of puppetry. May you find that making your own marionette is not really as difficult or impossible as you thought. It’s easy if you know how! |
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I am amazed at the lovely layout and quality of the book. What an incredible legacy to leave for our culture, the puppet theatre community and our children. The sketches and explanations are simple, clear and accessible even to a layman. Literally everything of interest is covered
Zuanda Badenhorst
Artist, Former Lecturer and Head of the Department of Entertainment Technology at Tshwane University of Technology.
It is my privilege to know the talented author of this magnificent book. In 1976 we were both involved in the very popular Afrikaans childrens’ programme ”Haas Das se Nuuskas”. The programme debuted as the very first item on the day of the inauguration of the national television service of the SABC in South Africa on 5 January 1976.
My being the voice of the news reader of ”Diereland” would have had little value if it were not for the perfect design and manipulation of the hand puppet itself. It was clear from the beginning that Alida was an undisputed master of her trade. The built-in mechanics of the puppet gave the little character life.
The puppet immediately met with great acclaim from audiences all over the country, young and not so young and also not only from Afrikaans speaking audiences. Even to this day people who still remember, talk with great appreciation and admiration of the lovable rabbit. The puppet performed without fail throughout many recordings and that helped the recordings to run smoothly.
Furthermore, Alida is an especially pleasant and approachable artist to work with. It is quite obvious and remarkable that every marionette and puppet designed and built by Alida is of the highest quality, and that applies all the way from concept to performing. Her masterly craftsmanship can be compared to the best in the world and serves as standard against which other artists can be measured.
This unique book offers invaluable insights into the making and operating of marionettes and ought to set a standard and become an invaluable manual for all students and other persons interested in the captivating art of the marionette
Riaan Cruywagen
TV-newscaster (Retired) and the voice of Haas Das