Puppets are as old as civilization itself; terra cotta dolls with articulated limbs have been found in the tombs of the ancient Greeks and there are many references to puppetry in the writing of Aristotle and Plato. Although puppets were known in North America two centuries ago, (being used in various ritual Indian ceremonies) the art fell into neglect in the 19th century. In recent decades it is enjoying a popular revival. Above, a few examples of some contemporary Canadian puppets.

Above, a few examples of some contemporary Canadian puppets.

Historians of the development of the theatre in the 20th century record one interesting aspect of it with particular interest: the renaissance of puppetry. This fascinating medieval art form is staging a vigorous come-back; and Canada, a comparative newcomer to the field, is becoming an ardent devotee of the delightful but demanding art of the puppeteer. Puppets above are from "Jack the Sailor" sequence of the animated film "Sing a Little".

String puppets, or marionettes, appeared in the 17th century. Today, owing to the mechanics of modern construction, they are put together with rare ingenuity.