Drama Workshop Inspires Year 9 Performers
Students explore teamwork, creativity and professional theatre skills with visiting practitioner
On Thursday 11th June, Year 9 GCSE Drama students had the exciting opportunity to take part in a specialist drama workshop led by visiting practitioner Dominic Thompson.
The session focused on building key performance skills, including teamwork, focus, and how to create effective and engaging moments on stage. Students participated in a range of practical drama games designed to encourage collaboration and concentration, before developing their own short performances based on interactions between two characters.
A key part of the workshop involved reflecting on how these skills can be applied beyond the classroom. Students explored how drama techniques link to creative careers and were able to ask questions during an insightful Q&A session about pathways into the performing arts and how to continue developing their skills after leaving school.
Dominic is a freelance artist who works with Gazebo Theatre Company, a Theatre in Education organisation based in Wolverhampton. He is also a producer for the internationally recognised Birmingham-based theatre company, Stan’s Cafe, giving students valuable insight into the professional world of theatre.
Throughout the session, students explored important drama principles such as “acting is reacting,” maintaining focus, and working effectively as an ensemble. Activities encouraged them to communicate without words, respond instinctively to others, and build trust as a group. Students also gained an introduction to techniques such as ‘The Alexander Technique’, which helps performers achieve better physical balance and stage presence.
The workshop provided a challenging and thought-provoking experience, giving students a deeper understanding of performance and the demands of creative work. It was a valuable opportunity to work with a professional artist and to experience new approaches to creating theatre.
We look forward to welcoming more visiting practitioners in the future to further enrich our students’ learning in the performing arts.
