Seems like every family’s got Muppet Movie fever these days. Heck, maybe the flick’s even inspired your kids to want to make their very own “Muppet” style character. If so, you’ll definitely want to check out the drop-in puppet workshops at the Detroit Institute of Arts, running Dec. 26-31, 2011. (After all, “Muppet” is a combination of “marionette” and “puppet!”)
Now, we’re not promising Jim Henson-caliber puppets, but your kids can try their hand at creating everything from marionettes to finger puppets to rod puppets, using their imagination – and supplies provided by the DIA – to create a different character each day.
These workshops are typically held on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. But since kids are off for holiday vacation, the fun happens noon-4 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Kids ages 12 and under (accompanied by an adult) are welcome to attend. It’s free with general DIA admission, which is $8/adults, $4/ages 6-17, free/5 and under.
Monday is all about finger puppets, so be sure to bring a finger from a glove to decorate. On Tuesday, it’s rod bug puppets. Wednesday, create a hand puppet. If you’ve got arachnophobia, stay home on Thursday, because kids will be creating their very own felt spider marionette. Friday’s puppet is sweet enough to eat: Kids will decorate cookies with icing and beads to create a gingerbread puppet. And, on Saturday, make tongue depressor puppets with different fabrics, yarn, markers and more.
While you’re at the museum, stay for the 2 p.m. holiday puppet performances or explore. Not sure what the kids will be interested in? Lucky for you, the DIA has a gallery guide that includes 10 things to do with kids while you’re visiting. From playing “eye spy” in different galleries to climbing the spiral staircase near Kresge Court, there are so many things to do and see with the kids.
See the Metro Parent listing for more on the December 2011 drop-in puppet workshops at the Detroit Institute of Arts.
