West End Workshops: Pulling Strings
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If you are looking for something a little different to do before seeing a West End show, gather together a group of friends, classmates or workmates and have a look at some of the workshops that are available. Pitched at all levels, the workshops accommodate your group’s needs and abilities.
Recently I took part in a puppetry workshop at Pineapple Dance Studios, just behind Covent Garden. We had opted for this workshop, as our [matinee viewing](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/tickets/matinee-shows-in-london-west-end) that day was to be [**The Lion King**](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/9/the-lion-king-tickets.aspx). How fortunate when our workshop leader turned out to be Howard Gossington, currently playing Zazu 8 shows a week.
The workshop saw us thinking about different types of puppets and how we define and manipulate them before moving on to creating our own. Using a scenario inspired by [**The Lion King**](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/9/the-lion-king-tickets.aspx) we made our puppets tell a story, giving life and breath to this once inanimate object.
Howard was also open to questions about his career, about working on **The Lion King** and the use of puppetry. Knowledgeable and engaging, his workshop was thoroughly enjoyable and informative and everyone was able to take something away from it. This opportunity to quiz a West End performer is invaluable for anyone thinking of a career on stage.
So next time you’re thinking of seeing a West End show, see what else you can add into your day to enhance your experience!