Date: Sat, 07 Jan 2006 23:37:54 -0500
To: puptcrit-AT-lists.driftline.org
Subject: Re: [Puptcrit] it's a big, big world or whatever


I've worked on the production side of a number of network TV shows  
both puppet and animation.  From my perspective, producers (and more  
importantly networks) want to use what they know works.  On "Between  
the Lions" we tried to use a number of puppetry styles; shadow, rod  
puppets, marionettes, sicilian marionettes, object theater, etc.   
Unfortunately, research showed that kids preferred animation over any  
of the puppets.  Research seems to show that kids feel puppets are  
for babies.  Hence why Sesame skews to a younger demographic these  
days than when it first aired and why networks buy puppet shows for  
preschoolers and animation for older kids.  Since they are looking at  
puppets for preschoolers, they want designs that are soft, colorful  
and inviting, not only to attract the kids attention, but also to  
entice the kids to bug their parents to buy the plush and other  
merchandise (which is a large consideration during the design phase  
of any network show).

So basically networks want to use what will sell more product and get  
them a higher rating, so as Liz said they use what has a track record  
rather than take a chance on something unknown.  Which is the same as  
the rest of the entertainment industry hence all the remakes,  
sequels, knock-offs, etc you see on TV and film.

Jared

_______________________________________________
List address: puptcrit-AT-lists.driftline.org
Admin interface: http://lists.driftline.org/listinfo.cgi/puptcrit-driftline.org
Archives: http://www.driftline.org