Workshops & Masterclasses
Expand your practice, get moving, and spend some time learning from Festival artists in these workshops and masterclasses. We’re bringing you professional development cross-disciplinary concepts, and deeper engagement with these opportunities.
There will be something for everyone from early career to established artists. All sessions are free and we encourage you to share these opportunities with your community.
Registration is essential and spaces are limited. We will announce sessions over December and January so make sure you’re signed up for our Industry Enews list to be notified.
Workshops
18 - 20 Feb, 10am - 1pm
3 hours per day (lunch not included)
Applications are now closed
Where: Subiaco Arts Centre
Join Why Not Theatre’s Miriam Fernandes (writer & creator, Mahabharata) and Encounter Theatre’s Jay Emmanuel (deviser, Mahabharata) for a three-day workshop that delves into the creative process behind Mahabharata, one of the world’s great epics.
This workshop blends physicality, improvisation, and storytelling to create theatre that balances Eastern and Western cultures. We will examine how an actor’s physicality shapes narrative; and will illustrate how improvisation is not only a performance tool, but also the root of playwriting.
Participants will investigate the foundational tools used to devise scenes through a guided exploration of movement techniques and improvisational exercises. You’ll gain hands-on experience in the creative process, exploring how the written word can blend with physical expression. Join Miriam and Jay in considering the connection between movement, improvisation, and storytelling; and discover new ways to expand your creative practice in a supportive, welcoming environment.
Limited to 15 participants, the workshop will be in an intimate, collaborative setting giving you the chance deepen your practice and learn new skills.
Please Note: All participants must attend both parts of the Mahabharata prior the workshop – Confirmed participants will be advised of discounted ticket options or we recommend using your arts industry pass discount if you’re ready to book tickets now.
If you have any questions about the workshop or need assistance with booking tickets for the performance, please contact Associate Producer – Connect, Margot Lane Strasburger.
with Aquenta and the Lubly Dae Crew
28 Feb, 3-5.30pm
As part of Crip Rave Theory, they’re offering one of their fab workshops covering DJing fundamentals for beginners, this time co-facilitated by the Lubly Dae Crew. In the workshop, you’ll discuss the basics, be introduced to DJ equipment, and talk practical and cultural considerations around navigating the industry.
The workshop is interactive and participants will have the opportunity to use shared DJ equipment throughout the session.
Limited to 10 participants, the workshop is open to people who identify as disabled and/or First Nations.
To participate, please register your interest here by Thu 20 Feb at 10am.
with Mahabharata composers and performers Hasheel & Abbas
Sat 15 Feb 10.30am – 12.30pm
His Majesty’s Theatre, Studio
Join us for a masterclass with accomplished artists Hasheel and Abbas, composers and performers for Why Not Theatre's production of Mahabharata.
In this masterclass you will cover the fundamentals of raag and taal and how they fit into a contemporary performance. Hasheel and Abbas will go over topics such as riyaaz (daily practice), improvisation and performance, and will answer any questions.
We recommend you bring a small cushion to sit on, and don't forget to catch them live in Mahabharata Part I: Karma. These workshops are open to any artists interested in learning about this form of music – no experience required.
Hasheel is a senior student of the legendary Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia and Ajay Pohankar. Abbas is a student of Shri Prafulla Athalye, the senior disciple of Ustad Allarakha.
Mon 24 Feb 5.30 – 6.30pm
The Blue Room Theatre, KAOS Room
This event is open to people who identify as First Nations.
Hear two perspectives discuss how to broaden your scope for creative work. Learn ways you can level-up and unlock meaningful work that is more than just being on a stage.
Get inspired to expand your portfolio as a creative by hearing about opportunities to become technicians, producers, arts workers and more.
A WAAPA graduate, Rachael Maza’s considerable contribution to the cultural landscape through acting, directing and dramaturgy has been recognised through multiple awards, including the Touring Legend Drover Award 2017, the Inaugural Alumni Graduate Award, ECU (2019) and the Australia Council of the Arts Award for Theatre (2019), as well as an Honorary Doctorate of Performing Arts from ECU (2019). She was a recipient of the Order of Australia in 2020.
Please register here