STUDENTS turned puppet masters as part of their course at Warrington’s Priestley College.
Those studying Production Arts at Priestley College were asked to create their own puppets and put on a show as part of their BTEC.
“It was a great challenge as normally they would be behind the scenes, but in this task their puppets got to take centre stage,” said tutor Mark Edgington.
“Not only did they create some wonderful puppets, but they also performed a witty and entertaining show.”
Production Arts prepares students for working backstage on performances and covers everything from building props to makeup and lighting a set.
Many of Priestley’s former students have progressed onto careers in production design and two years ago Rae Atkin was invited to join the National Youth Theatre after impressing them with her passion and talent.
Among those who took part in this year’s Priestley College puppet challenge were Alisha Morris and Leah Roberts.
They followed tutor Debbey Clitheroe’s guidance to construct “the bones” of their muses before adding their own creative flourishes.
For Leah, who previously studied at The British School in the Netherlands, there were some nerves as the characters started to take the shape of their teachers.
“When we first came up with the idea it was just for comedy, but as the puppets began to look like our tutors I started to get nervous,” she said.
“Once they were made I felt more comfortable. Overall it was a great experience making the puppets and seeing them come to life.”
