Whilst preparing ourselves for the annual production of Alves Funky Theatre, all classes are being exposed to masterclasses by the three stage teachers. I have chosen a drama masterclass where learners are learning how to express themselves using tone of voice and facial expressions.

This week the classes were introduced to the art of mime and how we communicate with exaggerated facial expressions and body movements. Children commented on the different ways of using body language and facial expression and recognised that mime requires slower, fluid movements for the audience to capture what is happening.

The children particularly liked that they could pretend to be stuck in a glass box!

Today they were introduced to one of the great silent movie actors; Harold Lloyd. They “oo’d” and “ahh’d” as they watched him climb up the side of a building in “Saftey Last!”. Learners were able to express how the clip made them feel and discuss why it made them feel that way. Great discussions developed as they spoke about their thoughts and feelings towards this clip with great use of descriptive words; “sweaty palmed”, “exasperated”, “sickened” and “frightened”.

Learners thoroughly enjoyed getting stuck in and creating their own mimes to share with their peers as well as receive and give effective feedback.

Today was a super lesson!