1C and 2C “Englisch als Arbeitssprache” classes had the wonderful experience to be visited by the puppet designer Rebekah Wild from New Zealand.

Rebekah not only designs and makes puppets and sets, but she has also directed and coached puppeteers all around the world in theatrical and film productions.

She talked to pupils about different kinds of puppets, such as marionette figures, finger puppets, shadow theaters and many other kinds. She showed lots of photos and explained to pupils how people play with puppets in these different traditions.

She gave a very interesting insight of working with actors and puppeteers on sets and backstage. She talked about design processes, pupils could have a look at both her sketches and amazing technical drawings which she presented to them. Although the presentation was held in english, pupils could follow it very well and had lots of questions to ask from her. Rebekah also explained how she makes several models in order to try out and experiment with materials before deciding for the final piece.

Amongst other performances she talked a lot about the “Magic Flute” which is currently on stage in the Volkstheater in Vienna.  One of the most exciting puppet she showed to the classes was “Fresco”, a dog puppet, who is a follow up from “Toto” from the play ”Wizard of Oz”, which was originally created for the Theater der Jugend and currently can as well be seen in the Volkstheater.

Pupils  were fascinated by being able to try out her original puppets and listening to stories about creating a theatrical production.

It was truly inspiring to meet someone from this exciting profession and hoping to see lots more wonderful puppets from her!