On the 7th of March, 2023 a workshop was conducted at Bosco College of Teacher Education, Dimapur on Constructing a Puppet. It was organised as part of EPC II Drama and Arts in Education. 100 students of second semester participated in the workshop. It was a practical hands on experience exploring the Japanese Bunraku tradition. The resource person was Mr. Mahapatra Jimmy Chisi who is one of the pioneers of puppetry in Nagaland and assistant professor at St. Joseph University Nagaland.
The workshop commenced at 10:00 A.M in the college auditorium. Mr. Throngkiuba, the teacher in charge for the course introduced Mr. Chishi. He also spoke on the significance of puppet artistry and displayed few of his works to the students upon which the students were enthralled and inspired.
Further, Jimmy Chishi, the resource person showcased a Bunraku puppet and shared its relevance dating back to 500 years old in Japan. Thereon, he instructed the students on how to make the puppet using newspapers, cello tape and thread. Each student participated in groups of five members. After vigorously learning and constructing puppets; a one-minute show was displayed by a member of each group for all to view and enjoy the performance.
The workshop ended successfully at 12:00 noon and everyone had a meaningful and joyous experience learning as well as making puppets. It was indeed a powerful workshop.
