TEDTalks: For Kids Season 1 Episode 3 Handspring Puppet Co.: The Genius Puppetry Behind War Horse

In season 1 episode 3 of TEDTalks: For Kids, we dive into the world of puppetry with the Handspring Puppet Co. In this episode, titled "The Genius Puppetry Behind War Horse," we learn about the intricate techniques and craftsmanship that went into bringing the award-winning play and movie to life.

From the very beginning, co-founders of the Handspring Puppet Co. Adrian Kohler and Basil Jones knew they wanted to create something special with their puppetry. They wanted to create a form of storytelling that was new and innovative, yet still honored the traditions of puppetry.

The episode takes us through the process of creating one of their most famous puppets, Joey the Horse from War Horse. The puppeteers discuss the many layers of design that go into making a realistic-looking horse, including the use of leather, metal, and foam.

We also learn about the training process for the puppeteers. Because Joey is operated by three puppeteers, it requires seamless movement and coordination between all of them to bring him to life on stage. The puppeteers undergo extensive training to learn how to walk, trot, and even gallop like a real horse.

As we delve deeper into the episode, we learn about the power of puppetry as a storytelling tool. The Handspring Puppet Co. believes that puppetry has the ability to evoke emotions in ways that other forms of storytelling cannot. When the audience sees Joey on stage, they're not just watching a puppet – they're watching a living, breathing animal, and they become invested in his journey.

The episode also touches on the significance of War Horse as a story. The play and movie are set during World War I and explore themes of love, loss, and the human experience during war. By using a horse as the central character, the story is able to connect with audiences on a deeper level and provide a unique perspective on the effects of war.

Overall, "The Genius Puppetry Behind War Horse" gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the incredible artistry and storytelling that goes into creating a successful puppet show. We learn about the countless hours of work that go into designing and building a puppet, as well as the rigorous training required to operate it. With its mix of technical information and emotional impact, this episode is an engaging and insightful look at the world of puppetry.