A marionette is controlled by a person known as a puppeteer. Specifically, a puppeteer who works with marionettes is called a marionettist.
Understanding the Role of the Marionettist
As the reference states, a marionette's puppeteer is called a marionettist. This individual is responsible for bringing the puppet to life, manipulating its movements, gestures, and even suggesting emotions through the strings attached to it. The skill lies in making the wooden or cloth figure appear as if it is moving independently.
How Marionettes Are Operated
Marionettes are typically operated from above using strings or wires attached to various parts of the puppet, such as the head, shoulders, back, hands, and knees. These strings are connected to a control bar held by the puppeteer.
The reference explains that marionettes are operated with the puppeteer hidden or revealed to an audience by using a vertical or horizontal control bar in different forms of theatres or entertainment venues.
Key aspects of their operation include:
- Control Bar: The primary tool a marionettist uses. It can be a simple rod with strings or a more complex frame allowing for intricate movements.
- Strings/Wires: Connect the control bar to the specific joints and parts of the marionette.
- Puppeteer's Position: The marionettist typically operates from above the stage or viewing area. They may be visible to the audience or concealed, depending on the performance style and venue.
Through precise manipulation of the control bar and its attached strings, the marionettist dictates every action of the marionette, from walking and dancing to smaller gestures like nodding or waving.
In essence, the marionettist is the unseen (or sometimes seen) force that gives the marionette its life and performance.
