A vibrant celebration of puppetry has arrived at Department in Ryde, bringing with it an extraordinary exhibition and a dynamic programme of talks and workshops for all ages.
Masks and puppets from around the world
To mark the occasion, Department has partnered with the Glasgow Puppet Museum to present The Magic of Masks and Puppets Exhibition, now open on the ground floor. This colourful and engaging exhibition, curated by the Scottish Mask & Puppet Centre, showcases a remarkable collection of puppets and masks from around the world.
Visitors can explore exquisite shadow puppets from India, Indonesia, Greece and Turkey, alongside giant Russian doll figures, delicate Chinese marionettes, traditional hand puppets, and an antique Japanese Bunraku puppet. The exhibition also features a rare 19th-century Burmese Prince and Princess, as well as a dedicated section celebrating European traditions such as commedia dell’arte, Punch and Judy, toy theatre and Pelham Puppets.
Contemporary Scottish puppetry is also represented, alongside recognisable figures including Morag the Cow from BBC television’s Fully Booked and the infamous Baby Dawn from Trainspotting. Interactive elements invite younger visitors to get involved, with a glove puppet booth and shadow screen offering hands-on creative experiences.
Talks and workshops for all ages
Alongside the exhibition, Department is hosting a series of talks and workshops led by experienced practitioners and local artists.
Joe Plumb, Programming Manager at Department, said,
“We are really excited to bring the joy of puppetry to Department through this exhibition, alongside a fantastic programme of workshops and talks.”
Create your own puppet companion
Island-based drag clown Quivers presents a lively, hands-on workshop where participants can create their own unique puppet companion.
Drawing on experience from his sell-out cabaret shows, including The Quivers of Oz and The Quivers Horror Puppet Show, Quivers will guide attendees through the process of building a puppet’s personality, appearance and character, with the opportunity to explore his own collection of handmade creations.
Traditional techniques with a Bucharest-trained puppeteer
Puppeteer Teresa Grimaldi leads a rod puppet workshop inspired by her training with the renowned Tandarica Puppet Theatre in Bucharest.
Participants will learn traditional techniques and create their own folk-inspired character. This workshop is open to all, with children welcome when accompanied by an adult.
A local maker shares her craft
Local puppet maker and set designer Marion Rodrigues will also present a special talk exploring her extensive career and unique collection.
Known for bringing local stories to life, Marion’s work spans a wide range of characters, from literary figures to historical personalities. Her talk will offer insight into her creative process and the history of her craft, followed by a display of her work in Department’s front window.
What’s on and when
- The Magic of Masks and Puppets Exhibition: Now until 13th May
- Marion Rodrigues Talk: Thursday 30th April, 7pm | Free (booking required)
- Rod Puppet Workshop: 9th May, 10am–12pm | £10
- Evening Workshop: 13th May, 7pm–9pm | £25 | Ages 18+
Tickets available on through Department’s website.
This unique festival offers a rare opportunity to experience the artistry, history and playful creativity of puppetry from across the globe, right in the heart of Ryde.
News shared by Joe on behalf of Department. Ed
