Wikipedia
Shadowmation
Shadowmation is a patented animation process created by Mitchell Kriegman. It uses realtime virtual sets and bunraku style team puppetry (some puppets are controlled by up to three puppeteers), thus combining live action animatronic characters with computer generated animation in real time, high definition virtual environments powered by video game engines. The resulting effect combines all the advantages of animatronics, the expressiveness of live performance, and the limitless freedom of computer animation. The end result is a distinctive and compelling immersive visual experience.
Wainscott Studios, NY is the home base for the process.