The
Beijing Improv Festival kicked off yesterday. While some of the evening comedy shows are strictly rated PG13 (you can see our
round-up for adults here), this weekend will also offer lots of interactive activities for your little ones.
Highlights of the children’s programme include:
Making masks
Artist and teacher Paula MacMillan-Perich leads your five-to-14 year olds in a theatrical mask-making workshop. Expect paint, glitter, sequins, feathers, faux fur and sparkles galore. 10am- 1pm, Sat 23 & Sat 24.
Poetry workshop
Drawing inspiration from The Sound of Music, (‘Rain drops on roses and warm whiskers on kittens’), your children create poems from ‘a few of their favourite things’. No experience necessary, just a willingness to come and play with words. Eight-to-11 year olds: 10.30-11.15am, Sat 23; 11-14 year olds: 11.30am-12.15pm, Sat 23.
Improv workshop
Children aged seven to 12 learn the basic skills of improvised acting, including telling stories, developing characters and basic stage skills. 11am-noon, Sat 23; noon-1pm, Sun 24.
CapoeiraThis workshop teaches 10-to-14 years olds the basics of this unique martial art from Brazil, which encompasses dance, acrobatic and musical elements.
10-11am, Sun 24.
Crazy science
Kexue Kids makes science fun. Armed with their coolest demonstrations and favourite costumes, the Kexue boys (pictured above) challenge your five-to-14 year olds to construct their own scientific adventure. 11.15-noon, Sun 24.
Juggling
Just back from a recent trip to Africa to teach children there the art of juggling, instructor Federico Moro introduces your kids to a whole new world of coordination through fun and games. 10-to-14 year olds: 11.15-noon, Sun 24; seven-to-10 year olds: 12.16-1pm
All workshops are held at the
Peng Hao Theatre, just off Nanluoguxiang. To reserve a place for your child, visit
festival.beijingimprov.org. 80RMB for a day pass; 150RMB for a festival pass. All children’s workshops require an accompanying adult. Children’s ticket price includes adult entry.