Physical Theatre: 25 Fun Resources for the Classroom
Physical theatre is a broad term encompassing works with elements of movement, dance, mime, acrobatics, dance-theatre, clowning, stylised actions and gestures, circus, mask, and more. While recognised as a form on its own, physical theatre can also involve aspects of other recognised styles such as Commedia dell’Arte, performance poetry, cabaret, musical theatre and more. Critical to the genre is the human body being at the centre of the action and the ability to communicate meaning and a story to an audience. Emphasis is on movement rather spoken text. – Justin Cash
Theatre Companies
Article outlining thirteen of the world’s best known companies of this form.
YouTube channel for DV8 Physical Theatre with a range of fantastic videos. Use this education pack if working with students on DV8’s Can We Talk About This series.
Website for Brisbane-based Zen Zen Zo.
Website of London-based Frantic Assembly, whose work includes The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.
Website for Sydney-based Legs on the Wall company.
Website of London-based international touring company Complicité.
Website of New York based PUSH theatre.
Teaching Resources
Excellent student resources on this form from BBC Bitesize.
Excellent unit of work developed for students in the UK curriculum with warmups, games, exercise and extended activities.
Great unit of work “Approaches to Teaching in the Style of Frantic Assembly” with warms ups, exercises and various student tasks.
Series of PowerPoints detailing a Year 8 physical theatre unit for the classroom.
Lesson plan for physical acting from BYU Theatre Education.
Drama classroom unit of work suitable for Year 8 students – involves viewing a performance, responding appropriately, developing and performing their own devised piece (.DOCX).
Introductory article on the form suitable for students.
Wikipedia entry including common elements and the genre’s modern form.
