​What we do

Puppet making and consultation

Handbendi specialises in creating unique creatures for theatrical productions. We are also available for puppetry consultation and direction.

​Our Shows

We create and produce original work for small-mid scale touring both nationally and internationally. Take a look at our recent and upcoming productions here. 

Studio Handbendi

Our studio space in Hvammstangi is open for visitors on select days throughout the year. Check out our open day calendar and stop by the studio for a coffee and to see what we are making. The studio is also home to our youth theatre and artist residency programmes.

Workshops and Youth Programmes

Handbendi regularly leads education workshops in puppet making and performance. These workshops are available year round across the globe. 

We also lead three local youth programmes - Summer Youth Theatre, Youth Radio Theatre, and our brand new Youth Arts Hub which will launch in the autumn of 2021. 
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Artist Residency Programme

Each year we offer up to three companies the opportunity to focus on their work in the thunderous silence of Northwest Iceland. The residency programme is best suited for early development work and is tailored to your companies needs and goals.  Residencies typically last 2 weeks - 3 months. 

Film, TV, and animated shorts

Handbendi occasionally works with film and television professionals to support their productions through puppetry direction, consultancy, and performance.  Some recent projects include puppetry work for the Icelandic feature film Lamb, and an episode of season three of Trapped in which our puppets are featured. 

We have also recently begun creating our own digital content and animated short films to critical acclaim, and even a few new awards! Follow the link for more information. 

Hvammstangi International Puppetry Festival

HIP FEST was launched in 2020 in the midst of the corona virus crisis.  Each year the festival offers a selection of the world´s best puppetry theatre and workshops for all ages, along with social gatherings and networking opportunities for passionate amateurs and professionals. HIP Fest was awarded the prize for Best Cultural Project from the regional development fund SSNV in 2020.  We are now preparing for our 2021 edition, which will be held October 8th - 10th. We cannot wait to welcome you to our small corner of the world.