New Carnival is bringing a huge ‘Green Man’ puppet to the streets of Ryde this Summer- and he’ll be looking at you. Andrew and Kathy Kim, from the internationally acclaimed Thingumijig Theatre company, delivered a masterclass for New Carnival creative volunteers and freelance artists this May to help create the large-scale ‘Green Man’ puppet. Thingumigjig are based in West Yorkshire, and specialises in giant outdoor interactive puppet walkabout acts, performing in over 14 different countries. Their work has even been featured in a major Disney Film. The ‘Green Man’ puppet structure was completed over a long, sunny weekend with the participants learning new skills and techniques as well as gaining insights into the performance aspects- how the puppet comes to life! Andrew and Kathy, accompanied by their dog Percy, delighted the New Carnival team with their expert and freely shared knowledge. Andrew said of the 3-day workshop:
“Great team, nice results, perfect weather, brilliant trip.”
New Carnival creative volunteers have been left to decorate the Green Man who will debut at the Ryde IW Mardi Gras parade on Saturday 6th July. This year’s IW Mardi Gras is themed on the ‘Story of Carnival’ – exploring carnival throughout the ages and around the world. Over 20 school, college and community groups will be taking part. The green man is a 3-person puppet, the main wearer being in the body, plus his 2 arms, another 1 person each. Standing at an impressive 3m tall, he will be leading the ‘Beltane- May Day’ group, and enhanced by some beautiful costumes worn by St Helens Primary School pupils. 
Creative volunteer, Linda Morris, said of the making experience:
“Having the opportunity to share ideas and use different mediums and tools was really beneficial. A great workshop to be part
Creative Volunteer Heather Vann added:
“Andrew Kim is an amazing craftsman, and he was very generous to share his knowledge and skills with us. I learnt about lots of new materials and processes.”
And Mickey Mouse as well.
Where is the Green man?