Residency Artist - Theatre

Voyageur Puppet Theater

Josephine McLaughlin
983 Manhattan Ave.
Dayton, OH  45406-5141
Phone: (937) 279-0325

I am a performer using marionettes, rod puppets, masks and whatever is necessary for complete and exciting theater experiences. Since 1983 my residencies have taken me all over Ohio sharing this form of theater. I lead classes of all ages in building puppet characters and exploring the art of movement with music and/or narration. My experience has been with special needs, gifted students in elementary grades through high school and adults. The 3rd and 4th grades are a joy of creativity. Giving attention to the Ohio Fine Arts Academic Content Standards, I begin with a theme from the class curriculum including, but not exclusive to, Appalachian, folk tales and Greek mythology. Discovering the magic in finding the "alive-ness" and the connection of "play" between the audiences, the operator and the inanimate object is a special kind of theater. My goal is to have participants discover the power and diversity of personal expression that takes people beyond the idea of puppets are "only for children."

With co-workers, I have designed and built puppets for a variety of audiences, from young children to families, for seniors and special populations. My current work is moving toward abstract or simplified images out of unexpected materials - all the while playing with expressive movements. I look for new ways to create puppetry movements with students. I like mentoring and sharing my experiences and resources. This artform in the community gives a way for building understanding and communication.

My training has come from 35 years of exposure to outstanding artists in this discipline, national workshops and growing publication of new materials. Studying the Fine Arts at Miami University gave me the background to develop the many skills required in all elements of Puppetry Theater. My goal is through shared art to promote positive communications throughout a community. Puppetry keeps me an observer of all life around me. I look at everything through the eyes of a puppeteer. What fun!