Physical Theatre. When you think of it, what comes to mind? Is it a student standing on a stage, contorting their body to represent a door? Or perhaps it’s a contemporary dance performance, with intricate moves choreographed to music? You may even flinch at the thought of it, preferring traditional acting styles instead. If you are a seasoned practitioner skip the next paragraph!

Well, in my view, all theatre is physical theatre. As Scott Graham from Frantic Assembly says, “surely all communication is physical because the body speaks as much as the voice?”. Just by standing on a stage, an actor’s body creates meaning for the audience. The possibilities for expression and communication through the body are endless. When working from a more physical mindset, students are often given tasks to complete, which can help them devise physical communication. Tasks such as those found in Frantic Assembly’s building blocks are often very helpful for students in drama lessons.

But let’s move on to the main point of this blog post – the well-being benefits of using physical theatre in the drama classroom. Drama and communication are essential parts of educating the next generation, and I support and promote the notion that physical theatre should be an integral part of any school drama curriculum.

I’ve seen the direct benefits that students gain from participating in physical theatre classes. Here are my top 7 ways that physical theatre supports student well-being: 

Social Connection

One of the most significant benefits of physical theatre is the sense of social connection it creates. By navigating tasks and exercises together, students build stronger bonds with one another. They learn to trust and support each other, which is highly transferable to the real world. Physical theatre encourages students to make meaning out of the physical expressions they see around them, which can to notice how others are feeling and be more empathetic.

Self-Expression

Another huge benefit is the opportunity for developing self-expression. With over half of our communication being non-verbal, the ability to express oneself effectively using the body and face is another tool that students can develop.

Mindfulness

Physical theatre also promotes mindfulness. Many of the activities revolve around completing tasks and focusing on the present moment. This can help students build concentration skills and be more mindful and present in other areas of their lives.

Stress Relief

For some students, physical theatre may also be a form of stress relief. The freedom to express oneself physically may act as a release for those who need to let off steam. Conversely, more reserved students may feel more comfortable with the structure of completing tasks, removing their awareness of being in the spotlight.

Self-Esteem

Participating in physical theatre can also boost self-esteem. Tasks such as those in Frantic Assembly’s building blocks provide students with achievable goals that gradually increase in complexity. This sense of achievement, combined with appropriate challenges, can lead to students feeling more confident in their abilities. The supportive nature of physical theatre activities can also help students feel a sense of worth and value, making it a very inclusive medium.

Body Awareness

Physical theatre can also improve body awareness. By navigating physical tasks in the space and experiencing moments of control and release, students can develop their spatial awareness and become more in tune with their own bodies. This increased bodily control can benefit their overall physical health.

Physical Health

Finally, physical theatre is an excellent form of exercise, which is particularly relevant in today’s increasingly sedentary world. With students spending more time than ever in front of screens, physical theatre provides an opportunity for them to move their bodies and reap the benefits that come with fitness and movement.

These are just a few of the many benefits of physical theatre in the drama classroom. It’s an incredibly powerful tool that can have a positive impact on students’ social, emotional, and physical well-being. As drama educators, we should embrace physical theatre and encourage its inclusion in schools. 

I would love to hear from you. Please share your feedback and insights in the comments section below.