2023-2025

APPLICATIONS ARE CLOSED

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WHAT IS THE MAKER’S LAB?

PROGRAMME TIMELINE

Phase 0: Applications

1-31

Mar2023

Applications Open

10-21

Apr2023

Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview

April2023

Successful applicants will be notified

Phase 1: Workshop-based Learning

Jul–Aug2023

Puppet Making Workshops

Sep2023

Puppet Manipulation Workshops

Phase 2: Industry-based Learning

Dec 2023–Jun 2024

Assist in Puppet Design and Making in a TFP Production

Phase 3: Industry Application

Dec 2024–Jun 2025

Lead Puppet Design and Making (under Mentorship) in a TFP Production

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

How much experience is the applicant expected to have?

This programme is designed for relatively new makers and you will be introduced to various puppet making skills and techniques in Phase 1.

If you are unsure, please write to us at tfpmakerslab@gmail.com to clarify.

What if I have no experience in making at all?

If you are very keen to apply, please still write to us stating your experience.

If my current profession is not a designer, can I still apply?

Yes. The programme aims to expose makers to various possibilities of puppet design and also the design process. We hope that you will be able to discover or hone your design sensibilities over the course of the programme.

I have no interest in puppetry, should I apply?

Unfortunately, no as the programme focuses on puppet design and making. The Finger Players is a theatre company that specialises in puppetry, and most productions would include some form of puppetry. If you have not encountered puppets or watched puppet performances, we would like to invite you to check out our website for upcoming performances. It will be exciting!

What are the hours for the lab like?

In Phase 1, selected makers are expected to attend ALL workshop sessions. The formal sessions run for 8 hours a day, but the TFP workshop is open for the makers to continue work.

In Phase 2 and 3, the hours are more flexible and can be pre-arranged. However, as per the production process, there are more intensive periods in order for us to complete the puppet designs and builds.

On top of the formal programme, makers can do their own exploration and participate in other TFP projects. As with all craft, your knowledge and experience grow in relation to the amount of commitment that you give.

If I have other existing commitments, can I still apply?

We understand that this lab is not able to offer complete financial sustainability, and so we are open to discuss and negotiate scheduling possibilities to get to a common understanding. Commitment is of utmost importance to us, so do let us know your existing commitments in the application email to us.

What will the interview process be like?

The interview will be conducted with the Programme Manager and Artistic Director. The Core Team of The Finger Players will also be present, whenever possible.

Aside from finding out more about your proposal, we are also interested to find out more about you.

Who will I be working most closely with?

The Programme Manager, Daniel Sim, and the incoming Artistic Director, Oliver Chong.

PREVIOUS CYCLES OF THE MAKER’S LAB

As part of The Maker’s Lab, the Maker publishes monthly journal entries that document their research and experimentation process through The Maker’s Lab. Read below to find out more on the previous Makers and their process from 2020-2023.