Purchase Multi-Session Course
Hand and Rod 101 Multi-Session Pass includes all four classes for the following dates: May 12, 19, 26, and June 2. Courses are onsite at the Center for Puppetry Arts and begin promptly at 7:00 PM EST.
Puppetry Classes | Ages 18+ | Our Location
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Join Us for this Multi-Session Introductory Class
Hand & Rod Puppetry 101 is a multi-session (May 12, 19, 26, and June 2) introductory course designed to introduce the fundamental ideas and techniques behind hand and rod puppetry. Open to all experience levels, this series focuses on the core skills and vocabulary that shape our approach to puppet animation, performance, and ensemble puppetry.
Across the multi-session course, students will work through guided exercises and explorations that build practical performance tools step by step. Each class adds to the last, helping participants develop confidence and a strong foundation in puppet movement, expression, and collaboration.
The techniques explored in this series can be applied across a wide range of puppetry styles and performance contexts, from solo work to scripted scenes and improvisational pieces. Hand & Rod Puppetry 101 is ideal for performers seeking continued puppetry training, as well as artists, educators, and anyone curious about exploring puppetry in a focused, supportive, and low-pressure environment.
Skills covered in the class include:
– Breathe and focus
– Weight and resistance
– Gesture and clarity of movement
Please note that patrons must complete Hand and Rod 101 before taking the upcoming Hand and Rod 102 and Hand and Rod 103 classes.
Meet the Teacher
Artist | Puppeteer
Scottie Rowell
Scottie Rowell (They/Them) is an Atlanta-based artist specializing in puppetry, storytelling, and education. Puppet Directing credits include the world premiere and two national tours of Mo Willem’s Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! (the Kennedy Center for Performing Arts). As creator and host of the popular, twice-monthly Atlanta Puppet Jam, Scottie helps folks improve their puppetry and improvisation skills through short form theater games. Scottie can also be seen performing their bonkers Cardboard Silly Show at The Supermarket arts venue, hosted by The Bakery Atlanta. As owner of Teller Productions, Scottie creates tactile, immersive experiences for families using sustainable materials (all repurposed, discarded, or easily recycled). Clients include the Kennedy Center for Performing Arts, the National Symphony Orchestra, the Georgia Aquarium, the Alliance Theater, the Center for Puppetry Arts, and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Visuals and fun at ScottieRowell.com and TellerProductions.com