Draumathjofurinn - Giant Puppet Making

As part of the team for Draumaþjófurinn at the National Theatre in 2023, I had the incredible opportunity to be first assistant to the British puppet maker Charlie Tymms in creating five giant puppets, including the largest, which was operated by five actors. The process began with the skeletons being constructed by molding wet bamboo, which was zip-tied together to form the intricate shapes of the puppets. Once the skeletons were assembled, clear plastic was stretched over the frames and heated to create a tight, smooth surface that would serve as the base for the puppets.

After the basic structure was completed, the puppets were carefully assembled and tested to ensure they were stable and functional. I then took on the role of "puppet doctor," ensuring the puppets remained in top condition throughout the run. This involved regular maintenance, repairing any wear and tear, and making adjustments to keep them performance-ready.

Working on these giant puppets was a challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience, allowing me to combine creative problem-solving with technical skill to bring these stunning pieces to life on stage.