A playful and dynamic two-hour workshop exploring the connection between movement and puppetry. Through guided exercises, participants will discover new ways to bring objects, bodies, and stories to life.

This session is an invitation to everybody to explore physical expression, awaken creativity, and deepen the relationship between mover and material. Expect a mix of improvisation, structured movement, and object play. No prior experience needed—just curiosity and a willingness to explore!

Supported by the NSW Government’s Country Arts Support Program through Arts OutWest and Lithgow City Council.

Teaching Artists

Renata Commisso is a regional NSW-based independent performing artist, maker, facilitator, and educator who spent over 12 years performing with leading dance companies across Europe and North America before returning to Australia in 2018. She has collaborated with various choreographers and companies since including The National Gallery of Australia, Sue Healey, Living Room Theatre, and Opera Australia. Her choreographic work YOUWHO? showcased at Sydney Fringe and featured in the Western Sydney University curriculum. Dedicated to fostering connection through the arts, she facilitates for Sydney Opera house- Centre for Creativity, Dance for Parkinson’s Australia, Milk Crate Theatre, DirtyFeet, and Sydney Dance Company, and in 2021, she founded Move and Groove, a creative dance community that embodies her belief in the arts as a space for people to connect, create and belong.

Keila Terencio de Paula - Performance Artist, Arts Facilitator, Puppeteer and Creative Producer.

Keila Terencio de Paula is a conceptual artist born and raised in Brazil who intertwines physical theatre and visual arts, creating works that incorporate objects, installations and audience engagement. Her works have been programmed for a number of festivals and events across Australia and abroad. Recently she received the Critical Path Research Residency, Red Rattler AIR program, performed at Belvoir Street Theatre for the production “The Weekend”, and has been working with Erth Visual & Physical for their national and international tours. Additionally, she has been involved in creative projects with the Sydney Opera House’s Centre for Creativity, and Strings Attached Physical Theatre.