Research and innovation

The TDC’s research in the field of oversize scenic arts (i.e., working in non-traditional theatrical spaces, such as arenas, parks, streets or on water) has led it to develop its very own techniques:

– Harness techniques to achieve human movement with large puppets or huge tableaux, such as moving frescoes

– Puppeteering techniques for oversized puppets with complex mechanisms that can be mounted onto a lift truck or a truck with an articulated hydraulic arm

– Aerial puppeteering techniques based on circus technology

– Integration of audiovisual components within the puppets

– Computer-controlled puppet-display screens

– 360-degree sound spatialization

– Techniques for making large puppets out of inflatable material, with or without a skin, designed like a fluffy, textured down comforter supported on an aluminum frame

– Use of a wide variety of puppet-making materials (wood, steel, aluminum, fibreglass, foam, latex, etc.)

– The creation of puppets up to 35 feet tall and 49 feet wide: These behemoths come with articulated members (eyes, mouth, arms, body…)