Toby Philpott

Born in London in 1946, Philpott followed in the footsteps of his performer parents working as an acrobat, juggler and magician in his youth.

He went on to assist Jim Henson along with Robbie Barnett in performing some of the complicated characters from The Dark Crystal and assisted Kevin Clash along with David Barclay in portraying a Fiery in Labyrinth.

He worked with Barclay and Mike Edmonds on Jabba the Hutt in Return of the Jedi, was part of Barclay's puppet team for Roger Rabbit and assisted with Audrey II in Little Shop of Horrors.

He has been active in helping to create and run schools for the circus arts and performed with the NoFit State Circus troupe for several years. From 1982-1983 he also served as European director for the International Jugglers' Association.

He currently works for his local library in Cardiff, Wales providing computer and Internet support. He also sometimes appears at fan conventions like the 2005 Star Wars/Dr. Who Event in Somerset. He and his wife Kym Kaos have a son, Keili, and daughter, Yo.

Many articles about or written by him can be found on the web.

Credits

The Dark Crystal: urTih the Alchemist, Garthim, Podling Foot Juggler, Crawlie, Jim Henson's Right Hand (for Skeksis Ritual-Master etc.), others (performance/puppetry only)

Labyrinth: Fiery 1 (assistant), Goblin, Helping Hands, Junk Lady (eyes only), Background character in Goblin City