Puppetry in Tragedy Workshop

Info

An upcoming workshop will take place over four hours, aiming to create a secure, enjoyable, and inclusive space for exploring the use of Puppetry and Object work within the realm of Tragedy. The session will delve into the convergence of these two expansive theatrical domains, demonstrating how the grand and the personal come together to establish a tragic atmosphere.

During the workshop, participants will learn various techniques, including:

- Breathwork (inspired by Theodoros Terzopoulos Physical Theatre Method)
- Methods for animating a puppet: focus, weight, rhythm
- Conveying emotions through puppets
- Bunraku puppetry
- Integrating chorus with puppetry

This workshop is ideal for puppeteers, actors, performers, theatre makers, dancers, and anyone intrigued by the synergy of puppetry and tragedy in their artistic journeys.

For those wishing to participate, send a brief paragraph detailing your interest and any necessary accommodations to vertebratheatre@outlook.com.

Cost: 30 euros
(Bursaries are available for those facing financial challenges)
Date: Saturday, 4th of January 2025
Time: 11 am - 3 pm

Location:
28 Markou Drakou, 1102, Nicosia, Cyprus

Facilitator Biography:

Mayra Stergiou is a performer, director, and qualified dramatherapist. Trained in Lecoq Devised Physical Theatre and Performance at the London International School of Performing Arts, and in Dramatherapy at the University of Derby (MA), she directs and performs in devised theatre, opera, and new music across various UK and international venues. In 2013, Mayra established Vertebra Theatre, where she develops participatory arts and health projects with marginalized communities alongside artistic productions. She has served as a visiting lecturer at multiple universities, specializing in puppetry, mask work, and embodiment and is currently pursuing an MPhil in Performance Practice at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, focusing on trauma and embodied materiality. www.mayrastergiou.com

About Vertebra Theatre: Vertebra is an award-winning, queer and disabled-led ensemble consisting of theatre makers and artists from diverse backgrounds, committed to creating contemporary work grounded in the principles of devised, physical, and visual theatre. Founded in 2013 by Mayra Stergiou, the company is known for producing research-led experimental and surrealist performances that tour across the UK and international festivals. Vertebra Theatre creates original, socially engaging writing for the stage, centering the live body and scenography in its core practice and research, striving to push the boundaries and continuously navigate the spaces between physical theatre, contemporary dance, puppetry, and visual arts. www.vertebrarts.com

Vertebra Theatre operates as a trauma-informed practice with training in creating neurodivergent-friendly environments.

Photo Credit: Greg Veit Photography