VCUarts, Virginia Repertory Theatre to teach ‘Puppetry 101’ next week
Puppet scene by Mary Nagler. Photo by Ephriam Nagler.
Fakeha Naeem, Contributing Writer
VCUarts Theatre, in partnership with Virginia Repertory Theatre, is bringing an introductory workshop class on puppetry taught by Mary Nagler, a Richmond Puppet Society artist with 40 years of experience, to teach a class on Feb. 4.
The hour-long introductory workshop will take place at Newdick Theatre on Feb. 4 from 5-6 p.m.
Nagler will speak about her career in puppetry, encouraging students to see different paths that can be explored in the realm of theatre art and understand that they do not need to follow a set trajectory to achieve an accomplished career.
“Those interested in puppetry should take it seriously,” Nagler stated. “Keep in mind that puppetry is an art form, the puppet world is very generous about sharing how to do things.”
Nagler will also be walking through her famous puppet performances, such as “Terran’s Aquarium.”
Towards the end of the workshop Nagler will answer questions sent in by the audience through the registration form.
Gracie Berneche, a VCU musical theatre alum, now a full-time employee of the Virginia Repertory Theatre, stated that VCUarts Theatre helps to bring students fresh perspectives and expand their skills while becoming agents of their own careers.
“We are always looking for working artists to come and teach with us, and when Mary showed us her portfolio of physical art we were floored,” Berneche said.
More information about Nagler and her work can be found on her website, Whorls of Wonder Puppet Theater. People can register for the workshop here.
