Paul Vincent Davis has a problem to solve. Across a tiny stage he must move forty slaves leading forty camels who in turn are leading forty elephants carrying basins brimful of jewels. Impossible? Just part of the job for Paul, artistic director of the Puppet Show Place in Boston, as he prepares his production of Aladdin and His Wonderful Lamp.
Kathryn Lasky and Christopher G. Knight, author and photographer of the Newbery Honor Book Sugaring Time, once again open a charmed door for their readers, inviting them to view every step of the yearlong creative process of mounting a puppet show. At various points in the production Paul has three able helpers, but, essentially hand puppeteering is a solitary art. Paul researches material, conceptualizes his set design, writes a script, develops the nine speaking characters, and then makes and costumes the puppets After a disastrous dress rehearsal, all this loving and meticulous labor culminates in a triumphant opening- night performance before an enchanted audience.
In Puppeteer Kathryn Lasky and Christopher G Knight honor their subject with artistry of their own, indelibly capturing the skill and dedication of a master puppeteer as he works within the traditions of his craft to create a special kind of magic.