Michael "Shoop" Schupbach
Maker Faire Bay Area 2026
September 25th-27th
This lecture explores the science and psychology behind Muppet design, revealing how color, texture, proportion, and movement create emotionally resonant characters. Led by Michael Schupbach, an alumnus of the Muppet Workshop, it examines the hidden techniques that make puppets feel approachable, expressive, and irresistibly lovable.
Schedule
Michael Schupbach
Michael Schupbach is an award-winning character designer and creative technologist. His work spans puppets, animatronics, robotics, and more. An alumnus of the Jim Henson Muppet Workshop, Schupbach specializes in bringing elements of character, likability, and empathy into complex builds and cutting-edge technology. His credits include: Sesame Street, Bear in the Big Blue House, Avenue Q, Ms. Rachel, Jurassic World Live, and Avatar: The Experience. His puppet workshop series in the Bay Area teaches adults puppet construction and performance.
