Puppeteering Pointers

Q: Every time our organization purchases a program, we get more chairs that are to be used as props. Because we have such a large supply, and only a small number of performing teams, many of them are not being used. What do you suggest?

Many Kids on the Block programs come with chairs that are just the right size for the puppet characters to use. These small chairs are for puppet seating, or as the base for a table. (Tables are created by securing a draped wooden square table top prop on top of an opened chair.) Chairs are incorporated into a script to make the scene realistic and to place the characters at a specific location-- perhaps in a home or a classroom. And we can't forget that chairs also allow a puppeteer to rest his or her arm when a puppet sits down from time to time. Because many programs include chairs, it is not uncommon for some of our associate troupes to have an overabundant supply.

If this is the case for your troupe, the next time your organization contacts the international office to purchase a new program, inquire if the program has any chairs. If so, discuss the option of eliminating them from the purchase. If your organization chooses this option, a credit will be shown on your invoice. This option can also be adapted to include the table top prop as well. You could also consider selling any surplus chairs you have (along with other donated items) in a troupe-run yard sale. The chairs are designed for real kids and make great gift items, bringing in some extra money for your troupe.

Also keep in mind that you want your props to look clean and professional. Carrying props from performance to performance can cause wear and tear, so having backup chairs or a table top hidden away in the office closet may come in handy someday.

Q: Why isn't my troupe included on the Links/Resources page of your website?

With well over a thousand associate troupes, it's impossible for us to know which troupes have websites and which do not. Therefore, the only troupes which appear on our links page are those which have contacted us to request links to their sites. After receiving such a request, KOB headquarters staff reviews each website before establishing the link. Language or content edits may be required before the link is approved. To request a link to your website, please email us at kob@kotb.com and include your URL address in the message.

We do not include non-link listings of troupes without websites, but we do provide visitors to our site with a means of requesting contact information for troupes in their areas.

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Last changed:
ŠKeeping Up with the Kids, Fall 2002