Grades K–2 · Arts & Music
How do strings make a puppet’s arm move?
A string puppet, or marionette, hangs below a control held by a performer. Some strings support its body. Other strings connect to moving parts such as a hand or a knee.
In the diagramA string carries a pull to the armraised hand
When the performer lifts a connected string, it pulls that part upward. A joint lets the arm change its angle while staying attached to the body. The string carries a pull from the control to the puppet.
Lowering the string can let the arm drop again under its weight. Several controlled movements can make the figure seem to walk or wave. The movement begins with the performer, even when the audience mainly watches the puppet.
About this explanation
Starting knowledge: Recognize a puppet with jointed arms and a string pulled from above.
Sources
- Victoria and Albert Museum — Puppets on the move: rehousing the puppet collection