Types of Theater

The first requirement of the Tiger Theater elective asks that with your den discuss the following types of theater: puppet shows, reader’s theater, and pantomime. Now on with the show!

Puppet Shows

A form of theater or performance that involves the manipulation of puppets – inanimate objects, often resembling some type of human or animal figure, that are animated or manipulated by a human called a puppeteer.  One of my favorite shows that involves puppets is The Muppets.  Jim Henson was a master at this craft of making inanimate characters come to life on the screen.  Take it away Kermit..

Reader's Theater

A style of theater in which the actors do not memorize their lines. Actors use only vocal expression to help the audience understand the story rather than visual storytelling such as sets, costumes, intricate blocking, and movement. Usually the stage is dark with stools for the performers to sit on.  I can imagine the performers on stage, dressed all in black, with a single spotlight... The video below is a little brighter than that.

Pantomime

A type of musical comedy stage production designed for family entertainment. It was developed in England and is still performed throughout the United Kingdom, generally during the Christmas and New Year season and, to a lesser extent, in other English-speaking countries. Modern pantomime includes songs, gags, slapstick comedy and dancing.  As a staff member back in 97' and 98' up at Island Park Scout Camp in Idaho, our campfire programs on Monday nights would usually involve pantomime (the UK definition) as we would perform our skits, run-ons, and action songs.