Homunculus Theatre Company allows teachers to participate in interactive, engaging, and practical professional development programs focused on comedic forms and dramatic styles. These programs are designed to enhance teachers’ skills and knowledge in drama and theater arts. Here’s an overview of what these professional development programs entail:
Wide Range of Comedic Forms and Dramatic Styles: The programs cover a diverse array of comedic forms and dramatic styles, including but not limited to:
Commedia Dell’Arte
Traditional & Contemporary Clowning
Absurdism
Slapstick & Stage Combat
Non-verbal communication & Mime
Physical Theatre & Circus
Melodrama
Political Satire
Internationally Acclaimed Physical Performers: Participants have the unique opportunity to learn from and work with internationally acclaimed physical performers. These experienced artists bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the professional development programs.
Skill Enhancement: The programs aim to extend teachers’ skills in the foundational aspects of comedy and other dramatic forms. This includes instruction and practice in various physical and comedic techniques that can be integrated into drama education.
Support for Curriculum: The professional development programs are designed to support teachers in aligning their drama and theater education efforts with curriculum objectives and standards. Teachers can gain practical insights and strategies to enhance their classroom instruction.
Interactive and Engaging: The programs are interactive and engaging, allowing teachers to participate and apply what they learn actively. This hands-on approach helps teachers internalize the concepts and techniques taught during the sessions.
Practical Knowledge: Teachers can expect to acquire practical knowledge and skills that they can directly apply in their classrooms. Whether teaching students about physical comedy or incorporating comedic elements into theater productions, the professional development programs offer tangible takeaways.
Broadening Expertise: By exploring a range of comedic forms and dramatic styles, teachers can expand their expertise in drama education. This can lead to more dynamic and creative teaching methods and enrich the overall learning experience for students.
In summary, Homunculus Theatre Company’s professional development programs for teachers offer a comprehensive exploration of comedic forms and dramatic styles. These programs provide teachers with practical skills and knowledge that can be integrated into their drama curriculum. Teachers can learn from experienced performers and gain valuable insights into the art of comedy and theater.
“Often, there comes a time in a person’s life when they stop playing due to age, maturity, or judgment. Why? Shouldn’t we all take it upon ourselves to be joyful, laugh, and play? Surely, one should never stop playing. It was through the work of Clint Bolster and the Homunculus Theatre Company that I learned this lesson. Their work is so important to our well-being; they inspire people, both adults and children, every day, and I hope they will continue to do so for many years to come. I have seen two Homunculus performances (Cafe Floriani and Spirit of the Mask) and attended several professional development workshops by Clint. At the end of each one, I was disappointed that it was over. I learned so much; my head was exploding with new ideas and ways to engage students in Drama.Homunculus is such a powerful company. Keep up the fantastic work!” ★★★★★ – Bronwyn Marsh – Townsville State High School
"I recently attended a Commedia, Clown & Physical Comedy professional development workshop run by Clint Bolster at The Game Changer Drama Australia & Drama New Zealand Conference. I can honestly say his workshop was the highlight of the entire three-day conference! Clint was enthusiastic, encouraging and approachable from the moment we entered the room. It was clear that he knew his content and was excited to share his experience with us.
I was asked to participate in the Shawn Mask activity, which, with Clint’s guidance, gave me confidence and had everyone in stitches. This also allowed me to experience what it's like to be a student and performing in front of others. I was very grateful for that opportunity. Not only did I have a great time in the workshop, I learnt valuable skills that I can add to my repertoire of skills. I am eager to have Clint come to my high school and perform for my students!"★★★★★
ASHLEA ROSS, MAITLAND, NSW
"Thank you to Clint from Homunculus Theatre Company, for an afternoon of professional development. Through structured play and laughter, we were able to gain invaluable experiences that we can apply in our classroom teaching. Clint was both engaging and incredibly hilarious – a testament to his trade. An insightful entry to the wonderful world of Clowning and Commedia!"★★★★★
"Just wanted to say thank you for yesterday’s masterclass at the DQ Conference. I was feeling tired, unmotivated and uncommitted to teaching Commedia for the first time in many years. You were disarming, direct, amusing and inspiring. I earnt so much from watching those on stage, and your coaching from the expensive padded chair brought out each actor’s ‘dericiousness’. I shall sally forth into the drama room armed with the exercises I need to make Commedia relevant for my students and me. Thank You. Thank you, THANK YOU!"★★★★★
NICOLE KAPERNICK, DRAMA TEACHER, QLD
"Under the artful direction of Clint and Lauren, the participants of the teacher’s workshop were given a hands-on journey through theatrical styles of clowning. The presenters’ energy inspired all to experiment and develop techniques that could be applied to general and specific drama classes. By the end of the 3-hour session, all were invigorated and armed with a swag full of activities ranging from warm-ups to character refinement. The opportunity to learn from Clint and Lauren was highly motivational."★★★★★
LORRIANE SPECOGNA, MERCY COLLEGE, MACKAY, QLD
"Thank you so much for facilitating such an invigorating and inspiring professional development in Townsville. The four hours of PD went so quickly. I gained so many new activities, and ideas that I know will enhance my classroom practice. I can't wait to try all these new ideas and activities out. " ★★★★★
LAUREN ALLEN, MUSIC & DRAMA TEACHER, WILLIAM ROSS STATE HIGH SCHOOL, TOWNSVILLE, QLD