Puppet Shows and Performances
Available across The Ishara Puppet Theatre Trust
We perform interactive puppet shows for all ages using traditional and modern puppetry, adapting stories from India and around the world for schools, birthdays, and community events.
Pricing Guide
Classic Hand & Rod Puppet Show
Performance Details
- Format: Live interactive storytelling using Hand and Rod puppets (Sesame Street style).
- Story: Choice of classic tales like The Monkey & The Crocodile or Aisha's Story.
- Cast: 3 to 4 professional puppeteers performing live voices (no pre-recorded mime).
- Duration: 40 to 45 minutes of show time.
Technical Setup
- Structure: Self-standing professional puppet booth (approx. 8ft x 6ft frontage) with masking curtains.
- Sound & Light: Includes portable PA system, lapel mics for clear dialogue, and booth lighting.
Interaction
- Post-Show: 10-minute meet and greet session for kids to view puppets up close.
- Takeaway: Script focuses on age-appropriate morals like friendship or honesty.
Premium String Puppet Production
Artistic Production
- Style: Intricate String Puppetry (Marionettes) performing award-winning scripts like Be Yourself.
- Aesthetics: Uses museum-grade puppets crafted from regional Indian textiles or wood.
- Target Audience: Suitable for mixed age groups, focusing on poetic visual storytelling.
Technical Requirements
- The Bridge: Includes installation of a raised puppeteer's bridge (requires high ceiling venue).
- Black Box: Complete masking wings to hide performers and strings.
- Lighting: Specialized rig with warm spots and gels to create depth.
Crew Profile
- Artists: Performed by 4-5 senior marionettists.
- Tech Support: Dedicated light and sound engineer included.
Giant Puppet Parade & Spectacle
The Spectacle
- Puppet Types: Giant inflatables ('Air Giants'), body puppets, or Bunraku-style large animals (Tigers/Elephants).
- Format: Adaptable as a central circus-style performance or a roaming parade.
- Themes: Jungle Safari, Circus Parade, or Abstract Carnival.
Cast & Costumes
- Team: Ensemble of 6 to 8 performers including puppeteers and safety handlers.
- Attire: Performers wear theatrical costumes matching the larger-than-life props.
Logistics
- Transport: Includes truck rental for oversized props.
- Safety: Includes minders to manage crowd proximity during movement.
Interactive Workshop & Mini-Show
Workshop Details
- Activity: 'Best out of Waste' or sock puppetry session where kids create characters.
- Duration: 60 to 90 minutes.
- Supplies: All raw materials provided (socks, glue, markers, embellishments).
- Guidance: Led by 2 professional puppeteers.
Demonstration
- Mini-Show: A 15-minute Object Theatre or Glove Puppet demo to inspire the participants.
- Skills: Brief lesson on voice modulation and giving character to objects.
Takeaway
- Souvenir: Each child keeps the puppet they created during the session.
About Puppet Shows and Performances
Why Puppetry Still Feels Like Magic
For me, puppetry is all about connection. It’s not just a show, it’s an ishara - a sign, a gesture, a way to reach people no matter where they’re from or how old they are. After more than twenty years, I still get a kick out of seeing a room full of strangers light up together.
What You’ll See on Stage
No two shows are ever the same. Sometimes it’s musical and interactive puppet theatre, with sing-alongs and moments where you can jump in and be part of the story. Other times, it’s all about the silence - stories told with just movement, music, and a lot of feeling. I like mixing old-school puppetry with modern puppetry techniques, so you might spot live film projections or even everyday objects turning into characters.
For All Ages, All Occasions
Kids, grown-ups, grandparents - everyone’s welcome. These are family-friendly puppet events, whether you’re planning a school function, a birthday, or just want something different for your community. The stories come from everywhere: Panchatantra, Andersen, or even new children’s books. Themes like friendship, being yourself, and a bit of jugaad (resourcefulness) always sneak in.
The Puppets
You’ll see marionettes, glove puppets, rod puppets, and sometimes just my hands. Sometimes things go a bit off-script, but that’s part of the fun. If you want something memorable and a little bit magical, I’d love to bring the show to you.
Meet your Expert
Ishara Puppet Theatre
12 connects in last 3 months
My Story
We’re Ishara Puppet Theatre Trust. Been at this for 20 years, puppets are our thing. Started out believing puppets just talk to people, straight up—no language, no age barriers. Every year, our Delhi stage gets wild with artists from Spain, Russia, Mexico, and more. You’ll see Korean slapstick, Brazilian drama, and our own Panchatantra tales. We mix Indian textiles into our shows too. For us, it’s all about sparking that joy, making stories hit home.
My Work
Annual International Puppet Festival - We host diverse puppet acts from all over the world in Delhi. Big on multicultural puppetry acts.
Original Indian Puppet Shows - We adapt Indian tales like Panchatantra and use local textiles for unique textile puppetry India.
Private Performances & Interactive Acts - From musical string adventures to hands-as-puppets, we offer interactive puppet performance for all ages.
Thoughtful, Uplifting Storytelling - Our shows dig into friendship, creativity, and being yourself. Not just fun—there’s something to chew on.
