Mind of a Snail inspired me to take up SHADOWjam-ming ...
What is Shadowjam?
Shadowjam is a fully participatory event where everyone is a performer and everyone is the audience. It’s basically a magical blend of improvised musical jam, in-the-moment shadow puppetry, and spontaneous storytelling.
We start by crafting shadow puppets together around a theme. Then we set up a sheet in the middle of the room…, with an overhead projector and puppets on one side and musical instruments all around. Everyone is encouraged to try any role, whether it’s as a puppeteer, musician, narrator or whatever else. No experience is needed and spontaneity is encouraged. The only requirement is that people try to be present in the moment, listening and responding with the whole picture in mind.
Shadowjam provides a framework for unconditional play within an expressive, inclusive group experience. Participants often describe it as a shared dream.
Who are we?
We are Mind of a Snail, a compost-modernist shadow puppet duo from the west coast of Canada. Since 2003, we have been developing a multi-layered style of visual storytelling using an overhead projector as our main light source. We do performances that combine original music, puppets crafted from recycled waste, masked characters, and eclectic experimentations in lighting and timing. Shadowjam is our delight, we love to share with you!
To light a candle is to cast a shadow.
-Ursula K. Le Guin
