Emma Williams and Dik Downey lead an immersive puppetry workshop focused on the vital role of the director in live puppetry productions.
Opposable Thumb Theatre – Directing Visual Theatre Workshop
Join the team behind Don Quixote (is a very big book), Emma Williams and Dik Downey for an immersive workshop focused on the vital role of the director in live puppetry and visual theatre productions. This hands-on, practical session draws on their extensive careers in performance, direction, and storytelling.
What to Expect:
Explore Puppetry Techniques: Discover a variety of puppetry styles and techniques, learning how to bring characters to life with dynamic and creative movement.
Animating the Story: Experiment with different methods of storytelling, from grounded and emotional narratives to comedic and absurdist approaches.
Dive into the Director’s Role: Gain insight into the intricate responsibilities of a visual theatre director, from shaping performances to integrating different elements seamlessly into live productions.
This workshop is designed for creative professionals, performers, and artists, especially those with an interest in puppetry or in expanding their directing skills. Whether you’re a seasoned visual theatre artist or a newcomer to the field, this workshop promises to be informative, inspiring, and a lot of fun!
“Dik and Emma’s workshop was one of the most popular we’ve hosted at our festival; feedback from participants was hugely positive and we’d have them back in a heartbeat.” Torunn Tusj, Go Figure, Oslo
An event by Manipulate Festival 2026



