Exercises

[DivaKat]

Hello! I am new to this forum and I first wanted to say hello!
I am getting ready to start rehearsals for LSOH in a regional theatre. I was just curious to find out what other puppeteers do (if any) as far as specific exercises to get into shape.
Thanks!

Kat

 

[ScrapsFlippy]

Disney has us do stretches ... hmm, if I can figure out a way to post a diagram somewhere I will.

-Scraps

 

[Jinx]

Kat- When you say that you're beginning LSOH rehearsals, might we presume that you're puppeteering Audrey II? If so, then you definitely will be getting a workout! The first time I did the show, I did a lot of aerobic exercise to develop stamina, and just a basic regimen of weight work with dumbells to develop upper body strength.

But whatever you do, I would suggest getting into the puppets as soon as possible. Its only then that you discover which muscle groups get the most strenuous use. And also you need to get used to the stifling heat, and to sitting absolutely still from "Somewhere That's Green" through "Mushnik & Son". Immediately after that was (for me, anyway) the biggest workout in the entire show, "Feed Me/Git It". Its the fastest lip-syncing in the show, and there's some pretty wild movement ie. upper body and arms animating the pod/trunk, and legs animating the roots.

Playing Twoey is an incredible experience. The first time I did it, I lost 15 pounds. Sadly the second time, I didn't lose any weight, and the third time I might actually have gained a bit!

 

[Buck-Beaver]

I've found - aside from warm-ups and stretching - the best way to get in shape for a very physical puppet part is to rehearse, rehearse, rehearse!

Say, where/when is your production of "Little Shop"? What is the company that is doing it?

 

[Fozzie Bear]

Lucky peoples! I wanted to be in that play in 1989, but my mom was all, "No. The plant cusses!"

I said, "Well, so do you!"

Then I COULDN'T peform AudreyII because I was grounded for 10 years! Sheesh.

 

[DivaKat]

Thank you to for the responses. Yes, I have been a puppeteer for some time. I mostly act and sing on stage, I havent had alot of opportunities to do anything else. I currently do pilates and some weight training to keep in shape I was just curious to know if anyone had some particular stretches or exercises they love and swear by.
I have done audrey I and II in the past, which is an interesting place to be. I cant say which role I like better, they are both fabu to do! My worry this time is the director isnt letting me to the rehearsal until january. She doesnt seem to understand the complexities to this part. Anyhow, thanks again!
Kat