Make your own puppet and transform everyday materials into exciting characters and stories in this fun, hands-on workshop for 5-11s.
Tiny Giants is a playful, hands-on puppetry workshop for children aged 5–11 that brings everyday, overlooked materials to life through imagination, making and storytelling. Children will be guided step by step through creating their own puppet using found materials such as newspaper, tin foil, scraps of plastic and even old (clean!) socks. As they build, they’ll develop a character inspired by the material they’ve chosen, exploring the journeys these objects may have been on before reaching them. Once the puppets are complete, everyone will work together to bring them to life through drama games and storytelling, before devising a short performance where their characters set off on an adventure through an unfamiliar landscape. You can join for one session or come back for all three. Each workshop is designed to stand alone, so children can jump straight in and take part, while returning participants will explore new ideas and activities each day. Each child leaves with their own handmade puppet and plenty of new ideas to take home.
This programme is free to attend thanks to funding from the Tower Hamlets Mayor's Community Fund.
Sessions are for children who live or learn in Tower Hamlets.
Sessions are aimed at children aged 5-11 years and younger children can take part if supported by a parent/carer. (Parents/carers of children 5 and over can drop off if they prefer).
There are 25 spaces for children in these sessions to create a fun and collective community vibe. If your child prefers smaller group activities, this might not be the right session for you. The check-out form includes a question about any additional needs your child/children has/have. We will respond to you to ask and understand how we can best support you.
“It really encourages children to get involved from a directing perspective, which is an opportunity they don’t get in school.”
“I enjoyed it when we could make our own creations and use our own ideas”
About Cracking Slate
At Cracking Slate we empower young people to become the directors of their own stories. We create participatory shows and creative workshops for children aged 6–11, touring to theatres, libraries and schools. Our fun-filled storytelling experiences help young people build confidence, creativity and collaboration.
Contact: If you have any questions regarding this event, please email programming@stmargaretshouse.org.uk
Venue: The Studio at St Margaret's House, 15 Old Ford Road — E2 9PJ
Access: We are working to make our building more accessible, but it will take some time. Please note that entry to The Studio is not step-free (accessed via 1 step to the building and a flight of 19 steps or a stair lift). If you require access support and/or access to an accessible toilet, please contact us on 020 8980 2092 or email programming@stmargaretshouse.org.uk so we can arrange this for you.
Dates and times:
Tuesday 26th May, 10am-12noon
Wednesday 27th May, 10am-12noon
Thursday 28th May, 10am-12noon
Tickets: Tickets are FREE but booking is essential!
Please only book tickets for any children attending, you do not need a ticket for any accompanying adults.