Andrew Young

Light in the Dark: An Introduction to Shadow Puppetry

August 16 - 19, 2026

Open to All Skill Levels

Special Topics, Puppetry, Paper & Books

Overview

Shadow puppetry is a rich and ancient art form that remains as mesmerizing today as ever. This workshop provides a broad overview of tools, materials, and performance techniques, specifically designed for the beginner but welcoming to those with some experience. Students will explore the use of overhead projectors and flashlights as light sources, while experimenting with diverse materials such as cardstock, acetate, and vinyl to create their figures. This workshop will cover the essential mechanics of shadow puppets, including joints, moving parts, and special effects. Working in collaborative groups, students will apply these skills to create a short piece to share at the end of the workshop. While digital tools for shadow puppetry will be introduced, the focus remains on hands-on construction. Students will leave with their own working puppets and a newfound sense of play.

Course Fee : $506.00

Scholarships & Material Fees

Need help covering workshop costs? Arrowmont offers financial aid opportunities to broaden access to our arts and craft programs. We believe a diverse community enriches the learning experience for all.

Material fees are not included in our national workshop costs, but are included with the cost of our winter short workshops. A material list with estimated costs will be emailed about 30 days before the national workshop begins.

TUITION & FEES

SCHOLARSHIPS

Cost Breakdown

Registration Fee

$50.00

Weekend Workshop Tuition

$506.00

Estimated Cost*
*Fees exclude housing and meal plans

$556.00

VIEW HOUSING & MEAL PLAN COSTS

Artist Bio

Andrew Young

Andrew Young (they/he) is a Taiwanese-Indonesian-American puppeteer, artist, and educator based in Minneapolis who explores the intersections of the natural world, mental health, and community collaboration. After receiving training through Monkeybear's Harmolodic workshop, a BIPOC-focused organization, Andrew has contributed as a staff artist to the Mayday Parade and Barebones Halloween show and performed original work at venues such as Heart of the Beast and Open Eye Figure Theater. Their performance history spans national stages including Chicago, Cleveland, New Orleans, and Knoxville, reflecting a deep commitment to using art as a tool for illuminating our inner worlds. Currently, Andrew serves as a youth art educator through COMPAS and works as an assistant artist and stage manager for the Full Moon Puppet Show, continuing to foster connection and joy through the transformative power of puppetry.

Explore the Textiles Studio

Located on the second floor of the Turner Building, the Textile Studio looks out over a sunny hill towards the Wood Building and downtown Gatlinburg. A bright and spacious space equipped for all things fabric and textiles, the workshop rotation in this space is as diverse and wide-reaching as the students and artists that populate our campus. A peaceful atmosphere with intimate corners for quiet sewing and contemplation give way to joy and laughter when the room is filled with the repetitive whir of the sewing machine or the plop of a freshly dipped garment in a vat of dye.

Explore the Textiles Studio