The Wonderful World of Theatre Styles

By Holly Clarkson

Creative Director, Big Mouth Theatre

The world of theatre is an exciting realm where stories can come to life, emotions are expressed, and creativity knows no bounds! When it comes to introducing young people to the magic of the stage, there's a wide array of theatre styles we like to explore here at Big Mouth. We’ve put together a short list of styles we use within our sessions and in our productions. From classic puppetry to interactive improvisation, there's a style to suit every child's taste and age!

Puppetry

Puppetry has been a beloved form of theatre for generations. It involves the use of puppets, which can be hand-held, marionettes, or even shadow puppets. Puppetry offers a unique way to engage children's imagination as they watch characters come to life in front of their eyes. Whether it's the enchanting shadow puppets of Asia or the classic hand puppets, children are often captivated by the artistry of puppetry.

Musical Theatre

Musical theatre combines acting, singing, and movement, creating a magical experience for children. Shows like "Frozen" or the more contemporary “Hamilton” have enchanted generations with their captivating stories and memorable songs. Children are drawn into the world of musicals, where they can sing along and be mesmerised by the vibrant performances on stage.

Interactive Theatre

Interactive theatre invites young people to be a part of the story. This style often blurs the line between the audience and the performers, encouraging kids to participate in the unfolding narrative. Interactive theatre can include choose-your-own-adventure stories, where the audience makes decisions that impact the plot, or immersive experiences where children become part of the show. We like to use this style within our devising process; allowing the students in the audience to stop the action, enter the piece and change it in some way. It’s a great way to explore different plotlines!

Commedia dell'Arte

Commedia dell'Arte is a style of theatre that traces its roots to 16th-century Italy. It's known for its colourful characters, physical comedy, and improvisation. Children are sure to be entertained by the exaggerated antics of characters like Harlequin, Pantalone, and Columbine. This style can introduce kids to the joys of physical comedy and quick thinking; a favourite in our rehearsal studios!

Storytelling

While not a traditional theatre style, storytelling is a powerful and accessible way to engage children in the world of theatre. Storytellers use their voice, expressions, and gestures to bring stories to life. Children can be captivated by the art of storytelling, and it's a wonderful way to ignite their imagination.

Mime

Mime is a non-verbal form of theatre that relies on body language and facial expressions. It encourages young people to observe and understand the importance of non-verbal communication, and it’s a great way of exploring a more physical form of theatre to create expressive imagery for their audience.

We believe that introducing young people to the world of theatre is a gift that can inspire creativity, empathy, and a lifelong love of the arts! The diverse theatre styles that we explore within Big Mouth can offer a broad spectrum of experiences, ensuring that there's something for every child's age and personality. Whether it's through the enchanting world of puppetry, the toe-tapping magic of musical theatre, or the interactive fun of improvisation, this range of theatre styles can open the door to endless possibilities and imaginative adventures. We love the magic of a live theatre performance and seeing a young person’s eyes light up with wonder!