Finally got home and settled after the drive back from this wonderful event. It was an amazing day! Since no pictures were allowed, I'm also going to do my best not to say too much about the content of the lecture and the workshop themselves--I wouldn't want to give too much away for anyone else who's going.
But basically it was great in every way. The Center for Puppetry Arts is amazing--the exhibits, not only the Henson material but the general puppetry collection, were wonderful to behold. Of course, it was spectacular to see the Muppets and other Henson pieces. I've never really gotten the chance before, and it was sort of jaw-dropping.
Steve Whitmire's lecture was really interesting to listen to. He approached the subject of puppetry and character from such an intellectual and philosophical perspective, and though he apologized for running overtime, I easily could have sat and listened to him for another hour.
Then the class was just terrific. Again, I don't want to spoil too much, but getting a chance to work with and learn from such a gifted performer was a dream come true. We did basic work with video puppeteering. I learned a lot, had a great time, and even got a compliment on my Ernie shirt. Made my day.
Thank you, Steve, for being so gracious and generous with your time. What a personable, charming, funny, and talented man you are!