Untangling — HHF FILM

Somehow anything can be a puppet…

Untangling the insights of a lighthearted community of professionals, in the making, manipulation, magic and mysteries of the ancient and very contemporary artform of Puppetry.

Synopsis

Entering the hidden spaces of workshops and backstage puppet theatres, the film untangles a wonderful world of traditional and experimental puppetry, where materials and imagination intertwine. Through the eyes of six charismatic professional practitioners: Lyndie Wright (co-founder of Little Angel Theatre) Oliver Smart (Folded Feather) Peter O’Rourke (Cubic Feet Theatre) John Roberts (Puppet Craft) Stan Middleton (Puppet Barge) and Ronnie Le Drew (‘Zippy and Me’) the film reveals how early fascinations evolved into lifelong artistic devotion.

Connections between the featured artists gradually emerge, painting a portrait of a community, centered around Little Angel Theatre, a hub of creativity, mentorship, and inspiration since its founding by John and Lyndie Wright in 1961.

Asking what, why, and how puppetry works, the documentary unravels a range of personal insights, philosophies, and creative processes. It discovers that, at puppetry’s heart, lies playfulness, craftsmanship, and an irresistible joy in giving life to the inanimate.

The film celebrates the tactile and technical: carving, construction, and subtle choreography between puppeteers and puppets - demonstrating how mastery is born from years of practice and commitment.

From marionettes to sock puppets, shadows to found objects, a dazzling variety of characters including familiar faces like Zippy, Sooty, Sweep and Muffin the Mule, mingle with new, unexpected creations; revealing the versatility and vitality of this timeless art form.

We learn how the far reaching power of puppetry perhaps lies in the mystical, the unknown and the inexplicable, and the suggestion is that its future is assured.

Produced and directed by puppetmaker, Frances Barry, the film is imbued with rich subject knowledge and personal interest. Filmed and edited with an intimate curiosity by documentary filmmaker Hester Heeler-Frood, the film is layered with a sensitive original soundtrack, composed by musician Martin A.Parker.

A joyful reflection on puppetry’s craftsmanship, mystery, and magic, we leave convinced that this ancient artform’s future remains as enchanting as its past tradition.

Duration: 32 minutes
Available to watch on Vimeo from Spring 2027.