Mastering the Art of Puppetry: A Special London Craft Week Demonstration at the V&A
Watch Skilled Artisans Bring Marionettes to Life in a Rare Live Showcase
For lovers of craftsmanship and storytelling, this is an unmissable event! On Tuesday, 13 May 2025, as part of London Craft Week, the V&A South Kensington will host the LCW Maker Demonstration – Puppetry, a fascinating insight into the world of marionette-making.
This free, drop-in event invites visitors to watch master artisans at work. Award-winning puppeteer and director Oliver Hymans, along with puppet maker Ash Appadu, will share their expertise, demonstrating how traditional puppet-making techniques continue to evolve today.
Both artists are participants in the Homo Faber Fellowship, a program dedicated to preserving and reviving endangered crafts. Hymans has worked across theatre, opera, film, circus, and music videos, while Appadu—a rising talent in puppet-making—began their journey at the Little Angel Theatre, where they debuted their first children’s puppet show.
This is a rare chance to see the art of puppetry up close, as these skilled makers bring marionettes to life, offering insights into the intricate process behind their craft.
Event Details:
📅 Date: Tuesday, 13 May 2025
⏰ Time: 10:30 – 16:00
📍 Location: V&A South Kensington, Room 103, Theatre and Performance Galleries
🎟️ Admission: Free
📞 Contact: +44 (0)20 7942 2000
📍 Address: Cromwell Road, London, SW7 2RL
If you’re inspired by the magic of puppetry, this is the perfect opportunity to discover the craftsmanship behind it. Mark your calendar and immerse yourself in this centuries-old art form at the V&A!
About the Homo Faber Fellowship
The Homo Faber Fellowship is a 7-month sponsored professional integration programme designed to connect master artisans with emerging talents. Participants gain hands-on experience, develop business and marketing knowledge, and refine their craft through intergenerational skill transmission.
🔹 Programme Overview:
📍 1-month entrepreneurial & creative masterclass – Certified by ESSEC Business School in a creative residency
📍 6-month sponsored placement in a master artisan’s workshop
📍 Co-created object – A collaborative piece with potential business opportunities
The programme operates in 10 countries, including Cyprus, France, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, and the United Kingdom. It is developed with the support of Jaeger-LeCoultre, a brand that shares a vision for the future of craftsmanship.