Cruinniu na nÓg SPARK Workshops, June 15th

As part of Creative Ireland’s Cruinniu na nÓg on June 15th, we present…SPARK! Workshops at The DEN, St. Helena’s Road, Finglas.

Join us at SPARK @The Den, Finglas –>a day of workshops, divided into two distinct sections. Participants can opt to attend either one or both segments.  Please complete a consent form and bring on the day.

Part 1: 12pm-2pm → SPARK Drama 

This workshop offers a fun exploration of the creative process through drama-based activities, games and improv to encourage spontaneity, confidence and silliness. 

SPARK @The Den, Finglas –>a day of workshops, divided into two distinct sections. Participants can opt to attend either one or both segments. 

Part 1: 12pm-2pm → SPARK Drama 

This workshop offers a fun exploration of the creative process through drama-based activities, games and improv to encourage spontaneity, confidence and silliness. 

Introduction and Orientation:

  • Introduction from the facilitators and details on what the day will consist of.
  • Ice-breaking activities to help us all get to know one another and encourage a welcoming and supportive environment.

Drama and Improvisation:

  • We will focus on games and activities that create a supportive and encouraging atmosphere within the group. 
  • Fun warm ups help hone in on group focus and concentration.
  • Trust building exercises are introduced to further create a sense of unity and safety within the group.
  • Group exercises help draw out interesting themes to inform improv scene work (guided by the facilitators).
  • Participants are encouraged to be spontaneous, non-judgmental and open minded to support others and free themselves to create short scenes, whether humorous or dramatic. 
  • The short scenes will be performed to the rest of the participants, allowing for a discussion to open up to the group, offering friendly feedback and comments on the themes being tackled.

BREAK

Part 2: 3pm-5.30pm → SPARK a Song / Rap / Spoken Word (participation in Part 1 not necessary):

  • Working with musicians/facilitators, this workshop will focus on activities for writing songs and spoken word pieces. 
  • Activities will be tailored to the needs and experience of the group.
  • Rhythm and word play games will be introduced to create a fun and relaxed atmosphere.
  • In small groups, participants are given writing tasks with the themes established in Part 1. New participants may choose from these themes or identify new ones.
  • Beats will be provided, allowing the participants to focus on lyrical content and performance. If you have a portable instrument, feel free to bring it along.
  • The work will be shared with the rest of the groups in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Closing and Reflection:

  • The workshop concludes with a group reflection, where participants are invited to share any thoughts or insights about what you have covered.
  • Facilitators offer final words of encouragement, recapping briefly on the main points of the day and encouraging you to continue your artistic journey.

Throughout these two workshops, a supportive and inclusive atmosphere is maintained with the help of low stake games and activities to encourage participants to express yourselves freely and authentically. By the end of the workshops, you should have a taste of the creative process, which we hope will encourage you to go forward and create with courage!