Exploring storytelling through puppetry: our Winchester Stage Company develops Treasure Island
Introducing new creative techniques
This week, Blue Apple Theatre’s Winchester Stage Company continued its development work for the upcoming June production of Treasure Island with a rehearsal focused on shadow and tabletop puppetry. The aim was to explore how simple materials, light and movement can shape the tone and atmosphere of a scene.
Everyday objects as characters and settings
Each company member brought one or two everyday objects from home. Once placed on the rehearsal table or held in front of a light source, these familiar items became expressive characters, locations and abstract symbols. This approach encouraged actors to think creatively and experiment with how objects can contribute to storytelling.
Crafting boats and creating shadows
One highlight of the session was a small tabletop “boat” constructed from everyday materials, alongside several resin boats handcrafted by one of our actors. When illuminated, these objects created striking shadow images that added depth and mood to the scene. This exercise demonstrated how resourceful theatre-making can grow from the simplest materials.
Casting shadows with objects brought in from home during our Monday evening session
Building skills through collaborative play
These practical sessions play an important role in the company’s rehearsal process. By offering space to test ideas and explore new techniques, they help actors build skills, develop confidence and work collaboratively as an ensemble. The creativity and abstract thinking shown throughout the session are feeding directly into the evolving vision for *Treasure Island*.
Looking ahead
We look forward to sharing further updates as the production continues to take shape and as the company’s ideas develop through ongoing experimentation.