"A significant contribution to puppetry and theatre studies: a thoughtful, wide-ranging, and challenging book which achieves an impressive integration of practice and theory. Smith's long experience in the field lends authority, honesty, and genuine reflection." -- Puppetry International Research "The breadth of Smith's knowledge is impressive . For scholars of puppetry and applied theatre, this book provides many fascinating provocations and avenues for further inquiry. It also compellingly draws together performance practice and puppetry pedagogy." -- Dance Chronicle "Matt Smith offers an insider's guide to the world of applied puppetry - challenging us to think with and play with a world of objects. This is vital reading for all those interested in learning about the arts applied within communities or across different contemporary issues and concerns." -- James Thompson, University of Manchester, UK "This is an eloquent, fascinating and timely book rooted in the author's varied and exciting journey in Applied Puppetry and Object Performance, from eco junk-puppetry with children to innovative and difficult work with asylum seekers in HMP Haslar.

Essential reading for anyone interested in the myriad possibilities of puppetry." -- Dr Adam Strickson, Visiting Research Fellow & PhD tutor, School of PCI (Performance and Cultural Industries), University of Leeds, UK "Illuminates, explains and prosletyses . A textbook and tome for practitioners and for people who seek to move others with hand-sprung special care." -- International Times "A selection box of fascinating examples from thirty years of Applied Puppetry practice . Smith's projects are varied and interesting, with a wealth of information and insight outlining the uses of puppetry and object performance in non-traditional places and community settings." -- Everything Theatre.