Residencies
It seems to me the main goal of teaching is to impart the ability to think, be imaginative; flexible, yet tough minded. A multitude of studies have shown the arts nurture our ability to think and that students exposed to them outperform their non-arts peers. Puppetry has been with us for thousands of years and exists in nearly every country in the world. These ancient roots testify to its unique ability to touch and move us. Within the classroom, it is an amazingly creative, experiential tool for curriculum integration.
So consider inviting p. o'connor puppets to provide your students with an inspiring, educational and entertaining journey into puppetry. Residencies are available in a variety of rod puppets (some made from found objects), hand puppets, shadow and overhead shadow puppets, as well as masks. High School and University teachers may be interested in reading the "Object Theatre" Essay listed on our home page. Regardless of the age, we feel confident a residency with p.o'connor puppets will be a real highlight of your academic year.
"It's evident that Pamella views arts education as an extremely valuable tool to be used in the educational arena. Creative thinking, experiential utilization, and curriculum integration were guiding forces in her delivery - through both creation and performance with puppets. Her hands-on activities were developmentally appropriate, challenging and fun for the kids. We are planning to hire Pamella again this year for artist residencies in the schools and would recommend her for your program as well."
-Denise Cook, Executive Director
Toe River Arts Council
Other Testimonials
"During the class lessons, Ms. O'Connor had clearly planned lessons for each day. The lessons revolved around the Appalachian Jack tales from which she chose three stories. She carefully led the students through the creation and construction of the puppets. The students understood the process and why it was necessary to make the puppets in a certain way. When the puppets were finished, Pamella instructed each student in the proper way to move the shadow puppet. Dress rehearsals were held so the students knew when their character was supposed to "speak". Performance day was handled just like a professional production. I highly recommend Ms. O'Connor to conduct and lead a residency workshop because of her genuine interest and love of her subject matter. Her gentle manner with the students gave them a positive experience with puppets."
-Pam Granger Gale, Art Instructor
Brevard Elementary School
"Pamella's residencies are well thought through, responsive to The needs of the class, and achievable in the short amount of time allotted. I have recommended her many times and the response has always been overwhelmingly positive. She has a unique way of encouraging children to believe in themselves and their own creativity."
-Lisa Sturz
Red Herring Puppets
"What a gift your work with them gave them, and continues to give...Just wanted you to know!"
-Wendy Kussrow
Asheville School"The children have been raving about the show since Friday. Our hallway is decorated with drawings and reviews of about 40 children! The puppet show was a hit. Thank you for providing such a unique experience for our kids!"
-E.K. Powe Elementary
Durham, NC"Thank you so much for the two delightful shows of 'Rapunzel.' They were exquisite in every detail from the puppets and sets to the fast-moving scripting and production. The puppet movements and character voices were absolutely superb and convincing. I so enjoyed working with you and hope your stay in Bryson City was a memorable and pleasant one. I know all the children and adults who saw these shows were as enchanted as I was."
-Eugenia L. Johnson
Swain County Center for the Arts
Bryson City, NC
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