Workshop: Shadow Puppet Magic | Karagöz & Hacivat Puppet-Making for Kids | Family Fun
Date: Saturday, 7th June 2025
Time: 11:00 – 13:00
Duration: 2 hours
Cost (includes all materials): £20 for one child and one accompanying adult
Class Size: Min. 5 – Max.20 Students
Instructor: Mengü Türk
Location: 10 Maple Street W1T 5HA (Nearest tube stations: Warren Street and Goodge Street)
Entry RequirementsA
Children must be between 7-12 years old to attend the course.
This workshop is designed for children (ages 7–12) and adults to participate in together.
Students are required to complete the form to register successfully.
Course Overview
Step into the magical world of Karagöz & Hacivat, the beloved characters of traditional Turkish shadow puppetry! This interactive and hands-on workshop, led by expert performer Mengü Türk, introduces children (ages 7–12) and their accompanying adults to the art of shadow play.
During this 2-hour creative session, participants will learn about the centuries-old tradition of Turkish shadow puppetry and create their very own Karagöz & Hacivat puppets from scratch. Using acetate film, vibrant colors, and simple tools, children will design, paint, and assemble their puppets, bringing these lively characters to life.
The experience doesn’t stop there—once their puppets are complete, participants will have the chance to test them out on a real shadow play stage, experimenting with light, movement, and storytelling!
This workshop is designed to inspire creativity, confidence, and fine motor skills while offering families a fun and memorable cultural experience.
Assessment / Outcome
By the end of this workshop, children and their families will:
✔ Gain an understanding of Turkish culture through the art of shadow puppetry.
✔ Develop creativity, fine motor skills, and storytelling abilities.
✔ Craft their very own Karagöz & Hacivat puppets to take home.
✔ Experience the magic of shadow play on stage, learning how to bring characters to life.
✔ Create lasting memories in a fun, hands-on cultural experience shared with family!
Methods of Teaching
This workshop blends storytelling, arts & crafts, and performance to provide a dynamic, hands-on experience.
- Introduction to Turkish Shadow Puppetry – Participants will learn about the rich history of Karagöz & Hacivat and see examples of traditional puppets.
- Design & Paint – Using acetate film, children will draw and color their own Karagöz & Hacivat figures.
- Puppet Assembly – With the help of fishlines and rods, participants will construct movable puppets.
- Shadow Play Experience – Finally, they will test their puppets on stage, learning how to manipulate them for storytelling.
Instructor Mengü Türk will guide the session, providing step-by-step instructions and demonstrations.
Required Equipment & Materials
All materials will be provided by the Institute.
Disclaimer
The workshop is taught in English, but some terminology used may be in Turkish.
As this is a craft workshop, the children will be using scissors to make their own puppets, and it is the responsibility of the accompanying adults to ensure that the scissors are being used safely. All crafts and activities should be supervised by an adult.
Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for crafting activities.
It is recommended to always take safety precautions when performing crafts and activities.
Due to the risk of allergens, we will not be providing any food or snacks during the workshop. We advise that parents bring their own food for their kids. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Please note filming and photography will be taking place throughout this event, and may be used for promotional and archival purposes. By registering for this event, attendees consent to this.
If you have any questions or queries, please direct them to us on londra@yee.org.tr
