A marionette which, when manipulated, has differential movement of at least one limb relative to the body of the marionette. This is accomplished by providing separate supports, i.e. strings, for the body and the limb which are characterized by being flexible and elastic manipulation strings, with the differential movement being accomplished by providing a first string for the body which has a different and preferably greater degree of elasticity, e.g. is heavier and thicker in cross-sectional area, than the second string attached to the limb. The strings extend to a common member, e.g. a ring, for placing the strings simultaneously under tension and in an extended rectilinear form. When under tension and extended, the first string assumes a rectilinear form aligned proximately with the center of gravity of the body.