Puppet makers
“We make puppets and create magical and visually exciting theatre for indoor and outdoor performances.”
We’ve created many puppets over the years. From Ann and Bill’s early work as Dandelion Puppets in 1979 to Small World Theatre’s present day puppets including the ones available to hire on this page.
Book our puppets and walkabout theatre shows. Email us to start a conversation about your event requirements.
Book our giant puppets and outdoor theatre.
Bendigeidfran
The King of Britain in Welsh mythology. At 7.62m/25ft tall, he’s a spectacular sight. Brân performs in Welsh and English and delivers an emotional response from audiences. This is a site specific performance and requires a unique collaboration with the host. We have worked with our hosts to deliver messages of unity, peace and climate crisis. Please contact us for more information and images.
Dewi Sant
Our giant puppet of Saint David brings theatre and spectacle to your event. His historically accurate costume (to the best of our knowledge) and gently demeanour adds a level sincerity to his appearance. Saint David famously said “Do the little things”. We believe this promenading puppet is a symbol of consideration - to do the little things can often make big differences. Please contact us for more information and images.
Welsh Dragon
Head up the parade with a 10m fearsome, Welsh dragon puppet and symbol of Wales. Originally commissioned by Swansea City Council for their Parêd Dewi in 2018, he is now a regular at this annual event and other Saint David's Day Parades. The dragon is operated by 2/3 puppeteers and has developed a ferocious roar over the years. He can be illuminated for night time appearances. Please contact us for more information and images.
Circus Elephant
Bring the circus to town with our beautiful elephant operated by two puppeteers is available to lead your parade. The puppet is the size of a real junior elephant and operated by two puppeteers. He can be illuminated for night time appearances. (As seen in the Eisteddfod opening celebrations 2022). Please contact us for more information and images.
The Polar Bear
Add some sparkle to your event with a lively, winter bear! The polar bear is operated by one puppeteer who loves to interact with the crowd and dance to the rhythm of the parade. Please contact us for more information and images.
The baby dragon
Our baby dragon is the latest member of our puppet family. She is operated by one puppeteer and is available for indoor and outdoor appearances.
Santes Dwynwen
Street theatre giant puppet and Welsh patron saint of love! Saint Dwynwen is the symbol for true love in Wales and is at ease in a crowd or taking part in a parade. Please contact us for more information and images.
The dog lantern puppet
Toby’s perambulating dog is operated by one puppeteer who is able to interact in a crowd and take part in a parade. The lantern puppet is a beautiful addition to a parade or festival event.
Lighthouse for hire!
The perfect street theatre show in times of climate catastrophe.
Recent commissions
Giant puppet of Saint David creates links between past and present.
Ancient Connections commissioned Small World Theatre to deliver public events at the start and end of their international project. We created two very special occasions in St Davids in 2022-23. Our giant puppet led the proceedings that included a community parade, a programme of performance, song, guided walks, a medieval marketplace, traditional skills demos and film screenings. We marked the achievements of the Ancient Connections project in Wales and the launch of Wexford Pembrokeshire Pilgrim Way. Thanks to the project, we have been part of a celebration of communities past and present that have created future links between North Wexford and North Pembrokeshire.
Yr Hogyn Pren by Theatre Genedlaethol.
We had an exciting opportunity to collaborate with Theatre Genedlaethol Cymru to make a puppet and props for their new family show.
Christened ‘Broc’ by Theatr Gen (because he is made from driftwood / broc môr) the wooden puppet entertained audiences in the first showing of ‘Yr Hogyn Pren’ on the Maes at the Eisteddfod Genedlaethol, 7 - 11 August 2023.
“Thank you for your cooperation and creating a beautiful parade for the opening celebrations ‘Dadeni’ in Tregaron. A proud moment.”
— Sioned Edwards. Deputy Artistic Director, National Eisteddfod of Wales.
“The fearsome dragon puppet was fantastic! Thank you to Small World’s team for all your hard work, It was lovely working with you.”
— Claire Bates. Manager, Oriel y Parc Gallery and Visitor Centre
Amazing, thank you Small World Theatre for all your hard work planning and creating the Halloween Spooktacular in Cardigan Castle. It was fantastic!
— Jonathan Thomas. Manager, Cardigan Castle.