Multi-Session Intermediate Course

Character, Intention, and Expression

Hand & Rod Puppetry 102 is a multi-session intermediate course for students who have taken Hand & Rod Puppetry 101 and are ready to focus on character development through puppet performance.

This series builds directly on the foundational skills introduced in 101, strengthening core principles such as lip sync, breath, focus, and weight while applying them to character-driven work.

The course centers on bringing the puppet to life through clear and expressive movement. Students will explore how thought, emotion, and point of view are communicated through action, shifting the focus from how a puppet moves to what moves it.

Through guided exercises and exploration, participants will make specific choices, discover new character possibilities, and develop performances that feel alive, responsive, and intentional.

Skills covered in the class include:

• Character intention

• Emotional clarity through movement

• Focus and thought-driven action

• Subtlety and specificity in performance

Please note that patrons must have previously completed Hand and Rod 101 before taking Hand and Rod 102.

Multi-Session Course

Hand and Rod 101 is a multi-session class that includes the following dates: March 22, 29, April 5, and 12

The course takes place onsite at the Center for Puppetry Arts and begin promptly at 7:00 PM EST.

Classes are always on Monday evenings to accommodate the performing industry.

Artist | Puppeteer

Amy Sweeney

Amy Sweeney is a puppeteer, writer, director, illustrator, and teaching artist with more than 20 years of experience bringing stories and characters to life. Her career has been rooted in the joyful world of puppetry, where creativity, imagination, and meaningful connections come together to inspire audiences of all ages.

As a longtime Resident Artist with the Center for Puppetry Arts, Amy has used her love of puppetry to create memorable theatrical and educational experiences for children and families. Her work blends expressive characters, humor, visual storytelling, and a genuine passion for learning. She also brings her artistic talents to digital media, animation, multimedia productions, and educational programming.

Whether she is performing with a puppet, developing a new character, illustrating a story, or helping young audiences discover the magic of creativity, Amy is passionate about making every experience engaging, imaginative, and welcoming. She believes that puppetry has a special ability to open hearts, spark curiosity, and create moments of wonder that stay with audiences long after the curtain closes.