The ECP troupe began as improvisational theatre performers who then developed into a puppetry-focused group. We utilize improv as our regular rehearsal format and as the primary component for many of our live performances. Improv can be used in multiple ways - as a tool to rehearse together without needing a script, as a way to develop new characters and new scripted material, and as an art form in its own right. During this workshop, ECP's artistic director Alex Timmis, a professional improvisational theatre coach, assisted by other members of the troupe, will lead participants through the key components of hand and rod puppet manipulation (enough to get anyone started) and introduce a core curriculum of improv games, skill building exercises, and explore the grammar of successful improv scenework, utilizing puppetry to inform and advance improv craft.

Since 2016, Electric City Puppets has performed scripted and non scripted longform theatre throughout New York’s Capital Region, including Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, Schenectady Kids Art Festival, Arts Center of the Capital Region and MopCo Improv Theatre. The artistic mission of ECP is to connect with people of all ages through the art of puppetry across multiple mediums. From soft foam puppets and children’s programs to shadow puppet burlesque, these performers draw on decades of experience in improv as well as professional puppetry, theatre and film.