Exploring Character, Expression and Physical Theatre (KS1 & 2)
Step into the expressive world of mask theatre, where words disappear and movement speaks volumes. In this dynamic and highly physical workshop, students discover how to communicate story, character and emotion through posture, gesture and control, the essential building blocks of performance.
The session begins with a full-body warm-up designed to focus energy, improve coordination and develop awareness of how the body conveys meaning. Through playful physical games and exercises, pupils learn that every part of the body, from the tilt of the head to the rhythm of a step, contributes to character and story.
Next, participants are introduced to the craft of mask performance. They explore how stillness, breath and intention can transform a neutral mask into a living presence. Working individually and in pairs, students learn to “read the mask,” experiment with expression, and bring personality to life through physical choices.
The group then moves into creative devising, collaborating to build short scenes that allow their masked characters to interact and evolve. Activities such as Paint the Wall and Park Bench inspire imagination and teamwork, helping students refine movement precision and stage awareness while creating powerful, wordless theatre.
The workshop concludes with a sharing and reflection session, where groups perform their devised pieces and give constructive feedback, celebrating creativity, focus and growth.
This session builds confidence, concentration and ensemble skills, while giving young performers the tools to express meaning without words. It’s a vibrant introduction to physical theatre, full of laughter, discipline and discovery and where every movement tells a story.
These workshops are a brilliant way to explore story and creative expression as part of a school enrichment day, Post SAT treat or Summer School activity.
Sessions can be an hour or two hours in length, each catering for a class of up to 30 pupils from KS1 or KS2