1. Choose a volunteer and location
Ask one child to stand facing an imaginary audience. Ask them to describe where they are, such as "I'm at the funfair." Position the remaining children behind them to create the backdrop.
2. Create the backdrop
Give the group 10 seconds to create a freeze-frame showing the chosen location. Encourage the children to use their bodies to become part of the setting.
3. Bring the scene to life
After 10 seconds, shout "Action!" and watch as the backdrop comes alive with movement and sound. Repeat with different volunteers and locations, such as a jungle, playground, castle, beach or forest.
Encourage children to include lots of detail within their backdrop rather than all choosing the same idea. The transition from still image to moving scene adds excitement and helps children think theatrically about setting and atmosphere.
Lucy Quick, Principal of Perform.
