Children really like various interesting performances, including a puppet theater. They enthusiastically monitor what is happening on stage. The viewer enjoys an entertaining performance in which the main roles are played by dolls. So what is a puppet, how does it differ from others?
History of occurrence
A puppet is a doll controlled by threads or a metal rod. Her prototype appeared, presumably, before our era. Proof of this - archaeological finds of masks and figures made of clay with moving parts and holes for threads, discovered in different parts of the world.
There is also evidence that the ancient Egyptians had similar dolls. Perhaps they were used in spectacular performances, and in priestly rites.
The word "puppet" is a borrowing from the French language: in the Middle Ages, so-called figurines on threads depicting the Virgin Mary and staging Christian subjects. There is another opinion that this word is a derivative of the name of the Italian puppet master Marioni. Later, the actors began to arrange performances with the participation of puppets and on household topics.
Doll Features
A significant difference from other dolls is that the puppet is a doll on a string. That is, it is controlled by the puppeteer in a completely different way than others. Strong threads are attached to different parts of the figure, attached to the cross-shaped device - “wage”. With its help, the puppeteer moves the puppet, carrying out various manipulations: rises, tilts of the thread. As a result, the doll can walk, dance and perform other tricks.
The manufacturing materials for them are now the most diverse: clay, wood, plastic, fabric. In most cases, the legs of the dolls are heavier than lead. Threads are usually made from waxed linen or silk fishing line. Puppets can depict various characters: fairy or real, people or animals.
Puppet Theater - a fascinating sight
Since ancient times, people have been very fond of various theatrical performances. And for kids who do not yet understand how dolls are set in motion, this is a fabulous miracle. For them, the puppet is a living character.
As a rule, the stage for performances is collapsible, consisting of a platform and a trail. The platform is at the level of public view so that the actions of the dolls are perfectly visible. Puppeteers are behind special partitions behind the stage, viewers do not see them.
With proper lighting, the threads that move the puppets are almost invisible against the backdrop of the scenery. Therefore, the illusion is created that the characters act on their own, without human control.
Today, a variety of performances featuring these dolls are staged around the world. In St. Petersburg, operates a wonderful Puppet Theater. E.S. Demmeni. In it, young viewers can immerse themselves in an amazing and fabulous world. Performances of different genres based on the works of Russian and foreign authors are very popular with the guys.
Fun for baby
A puppet is a great helper in raising a baby. It will help the little one understand what good and evil are, comprehend life values, bring a fairy tale and a game to the children's world, and develop his imagination. Try to teach your child how to control a puppet, and then she will become one of his favorite toys.
Indeed, under skillful control, these dolls seem to come to life, which is very interesting and exciting for young children. You can play various stories or fairy tales, and then give the child the opportunity to try to come up with a plot, while managing a puppet.
Home theater dolls are sold in specialized stores and are easy to make. Ideas for their production can be gleaned from books and magazines on needlework.