Susan Linn’s distance ventriloquism: play’s therapeutic potential in virtual space
Files
Published version
Date
2020-10-30
DOI
Authors
Amato, Felice
Version
Published version
Embargo Date
2022-11-01
OA Version
Citation
F. Amato. 2020. "Susan Linn’s Distance Ventriloquism: Play’s Therapeutic Potential in Virtual Space." Puppetry International, Volume PI 48, Issue Fall/ Winter,
Abstract
During COVID-19, Susan Linn has drawn upon her extensive experience as a therapist and her virtuosic ventriloquism to develop a virtual, screen-based approach to supporting children and families that are sheltering-in-place. She and her puppet, Audrey Duck, provide a crucial social-emotional space for play and make believe, drawing upon the opportunities presented by the relational triangularity possible in ventriloquism between child, practitioner, and puppet. By examining her work, one can gain insights into the nature of ventriloquism, as well as best practices for supporting children experiencing trauma and adversity.