Summer 2026 Puppetry Workshop:
Printmaking and Toy Theater (Level 1)

Printmaking and Toy Theater (Level 1) with Roberto Rossi

The first Toy Theaters appeared as printed novelties – paper stages, scenery and figurines ready to be colored, cut up and assembled for performance in 19th Century homes. This two-day workshop will open a window onto the origins of the Toy Theater in printmaking and give participants a chance to rehearse basic relief printing techniques so they can start their own journeys in printmaking and performance.

The first day will be an introduction to the materials and tools needed for carving linoleum plates, followed by time dedicated to designing and carving your own proscenium, scenery and characters. You will have a chance between sessions to finish your plates until the second day of the workshop, when we will focus on inking, printing, and creating multiples of your designs. The workshop concludes with a festive presentation of the weekend’s work!

Participants should anticipate an added expense for tools and materials of about $80.