[U]pfront Puppet Theatre and The Royal Geographic Society (With the IBG) are presenting a talk by Jane Paterson about the unique and threatened shadow puppet tradition of India.
A large collection of puppets made from stretched and painted deer skin has been given on permanent loan by Jane to the growing collection of puppets at the theatre.
The puppets, some over one meter high, will be demonstrated in performance conditions. They will be moved against a back lit white cotton screen with simulated oil lamp lighting behind them.
Jane will talk about her many journeys and experiences in India; collecting the puppets and being involved in watching the performances and religious ceremonies in which the puppets were used. An Indian food finger buffet will be prepared and theatrically presented on the evening by local celebrity chef and Indiaphile John Crouch.
The puppets form part of a growing collection which will soon become the focus of a bid to Heritage Lottery for a proposed interactive puppet museum.
Upfront Puppet Theatre is delighted to be working with The Royal Geographic Society in supporting and promoting the lecture. Upfront provide local schools with shadow puppet making workshops which are illustrated with their collection from India, China and Indonesia, helping to encourage an interest in other cultures and religions.
The talk is on Friday the 12th. of May from 7.00pm. to 9.00pm.
Upfront Gallery and Puppet Theatre, Nr Hutton in the Forest, Penrith. CA11 9TG
Tickets are £10 to include the finger buffet. Advance Booking 017684 84538 www.up-front.com
