May 04, 2015

Imaginative Play with Theatrical Wonderland!

At the end of April, ArtStarts was delighted to present free family workshops with Theatrical Wonderland's talented actress and writer, Carmel Amit.

For her workshop, Carmel created an inviting atmosphere where enthusiastic young performers were invited to join in imaginative play, body movement and freedom of expression.

For the first part of the workshop, participants were asked to draw on their vivid imaginations and join in a tight rope balancing act — tip toeing and balancing over a line of tape, they pretended to walk on a "tightrope" and practiced body awareness while maintaining their balance. Expressions were priceless as the tightrope quickly morphed into a line of hot coals  — "ouch ouch ouch!" — then cold ice — "brrrr!" — followed by squishy, gooey mud — "ewwww!"

Next, it was time to warm up the vocal cords and get bodies moving! Carmel engaged each participant by encouraging them to select a body parts for inclusion in the "Hokey Pokey" song. After all the body parts were warmed up, participants were ready to play a "Stop, Go, Slow" game where they chose their imaginary vehicle of their choice such as a bike, spaceship, horse, or car to navigate. Discipline and respect for others were key to this game as a green, yellow and red lights helped them navigate.

Young ones were then paired together to practice a creative improvisation exercise — each participant chose an emotion before saying "good morning" to their partner. Expressions of different emotions such as happiness, anger, sadness and goofiness abounded! This theatrical improv encouraged all to reflect on how we express our moods, emotions to increase respect and awareness of ourselves and others.

To close the workshop, Carmel gathered participants for some improvised storytelling based on elements for the beloved story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, where participants took several turns adding their own creative elements and twists to the story.

Thanks to Carmel for allowing us to creatively address and explore our emotions, self-expression, performance and stretching creative boundaries through lighthearted theatrical play! Be sure to try the "Stop, Go, Slow" game at home, or practice walking on a "tightrope."

Check out lots more photos on Facebook from ArtStarts on Saturdays and from ArtStarts at River Market.

We look forward to seeing you at our next event: "The Art Art of Capoeira" with Axé Capoeira will be an interactive educational tapestry of Brazilian history, culture, traditions and beliefs that will entertain an audience of all ages. Join us at ArtStarts on Saturdays in Vancouver on Saturday, May 30, 2015 and at ArtStarts at River Market in New Westminster on Sunday, May 31, 2015.

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