We have chatted about this for over a year, and I'm finally able to commit to conducting a master class for marionettes.  The dates will be July 25-30, 2004 at my studio in the South Bay Harbor City area of Los Angeles. (You may arrive early to take advange of Sat. night airline stayover.)  Workshop will be from 0800-1800, full 8 hours each day. Each participant will construct a complete marionette, from wood, foam, neoprene, and fabric.  I will have experts in costuming, sculpting, mold making and casting helping with the five-day course. 

Marymount College will offer 1-2 credits for the class for an additional fee of approximately $500 if desired.  The college will also offer housing, an apartment with two bedrooms and private bath nearby and I will provide transportation to and from my studio.  Cost is being determined.  There are also motels and hotels nearby.

We will concentrate on theory, trick stringing, and fast ways to create professional marionettes.  The cost for the class is $1500, ($300 per day) for everything you could learn in a college semester or 6 months interning.  Limited to 12-15 particpants.  Puppetry or some performing experience is required.  The objective is to teach marionette skills.

We will work hard and you will learn much.  Evenings will be devoted to fun, relaxation and homework, if necessary to complete your marionette. I will also show videos from puppet festivals in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.  All supplies are furnished.  I am hoping to set up tour to other puppetry studios in LA.

We need $500 to hold a place for the Master Class.  Send inqiries to Jim@Jimgamble.com

Master Marionette Class

• Monday, July 25-July 31, 2004, (6 days) Jim Gamble Puppet Studio, Harbor City, CA
   (20 min from Long Beach and Los Angeles airports)

• 10 Participants, previous puppetry experience required

• Complete work-through, each will complete 28 inch marionette

• Subjects: design, sculpting, mold making, casting, carving, animation, body parts,
   joints, costuming, controllers, stringing and manipulation.

• Fee: $1500, $500 deposit to hold place by July 1. Remainder July 25.

• Housing available for $22 shared, or $44 private room.

• One hour Marymount College credit available for $300.