Gary Friedman has been trying to find out info about China and the effects of the earthquake on UNIMA 2012. He's gotten this heartfelt email from the organisers:

http://africanpuppet.blogspot.com/2008/05/report-just-in-from-unima-china.html

Whatever your opinion of the political situation, let's not forget the poor puppeteers who are out there (and in Myanmar for that matter!) and might be in need of help!

An update: Gary now reports that the China committee for UNIMA 2012 is asking for international help running a puppet project for children affected by the earthquake.

"With more then 22 000 now reported dead in the terrible earthquake in China's Sichuan province and rescue teams arriving from all over the world, UNIMA China is requesting support from puppeteers from around the world in helping to sponsor a puppetry counseling project for the children. They report that they have learned much from Taiwan, in their experience helping children and youth after an earthquake in the past. I have not heard of a central coordinator for this project as yet, but if you can assist in any way, please email Simon Wong at the UNIMA China Hong Kong office here!"

More info here:

http://africanpuppet.blogspot.com/2008/05/puppeteers-can-help-china.html