HOLLY GRACE DESIGN

The Winters Tale with Nick Barnes Puppets for red rose chain

I assisted Nick Barnes Puppets to create two humanette Puppets for Red Rose chain Theatre's rendition of the Winters Tale. The base of the bodies were sewn using calico, with reinforced holes positioned at the top and bottom to allow for elastic bungee to run from the internal armature through the legs. I also inserted a zip down the centre back seam so that the stuffing could be held inside, but also allow access to the armature if needed. The soft sheep like 'wool' top fabric was fitted to the stuffed shape. I draped it to create a three piece pattern to reduce the amount of pieces and give the front of the belly a seamless look. 

The heads also have a calico bonnet shaped base with an elasticated Velcro chin strap for security. The 'wool' was draped and fitted over the head shape, secured around the front of the bonnet before being anchored to the body to create the illusion of a neck. 

The legs were carved by caroline bowman. I sanded them before adding rubber soles to the bottom and leather around the hooves. This contrast between the texture of the plastazote and the leather was simple, yet effective on stage. In addition to this, as the theatre is open air there is the chance that the stage may become wet, by covering the feet we protect the plastazote. 

The ears and the tails are both made from plastazote, cut to shape before being painted, covered and attached. 

The show also featured a small child puppet and baby Designed by Caroline Bowman. Puppets Made by Caroline Bowman, Suzanne Law, Jessica Taylor and myself.