We truly enjoy sharing with people what goes on behind the scenes at Barefoot Puppets. We build all our puppets, staging and scenery; we believe that exposure to the arts is very important for children (and adults!). We hope you enjoy this backstage peek!



We use a lot of different materials when we build our puppets, stages and scenery. We use new materials and a lot of recycled materials. Hot glue, craft glue, sewing supplies, latex, plaster, foam rubber, plastic plates, a drill press and a compound power miter saw are just a few of the things we regularly use in our studio!



We often build our puppets for a show together -- for example, building their heads all at once. This makes the size of the puppets consistent in their relationships to one another. It is also helpful when we have to place an order for special materials (like eyes!).
This picture shows the development of the puppets for "Galapagos George."



At the end of a show, puppets are all over the place! While it might seem fun to go backstage for a closer look, we always ask that people remain in front of the stage so that our "friends" will be safe!



Time permitting, we are happy to show our puppets and explain how they work. We don't feel like we are "giving away our secrets," but feel that we are giving children an opportunity look more closely at some unique puppets.
Who knows...perhaps some of them will be inspired to create their own works of art!