EDUCATIONAL PACK PROCESS DRAMA UNIT. THE SHOW: CASTING OFF BY: A GOOD CATCH CIRCUS

Casting off is a cross-generational show that challenges the conventions of circus and subverts expectations.

Casting off, three generations of dynamic women tumble, talk, fly, and balance precariously; where the personal is political, the furious is funny, and the acrobatics are downright dangerous.

A disarming, hilarious show about living on the edge and talking about it.

Self-directed, hand-knitted, and honouring the life events that get in the way of work, Casting Off is a theatrical circus experience that celebrates thoughtful, strong, and resilient individuals. A joyous accumulation of moments that shine a light on women relating to each other in playful, fruitful relationships.

Flipping, climbing and flying to a soundscape of the many disparate texts (lists, poems, conversations, melodies, arguments and biographies) that embody each day. Casting off is nonnarrative circus with words that’s easier done than said

This Education Pack provides lesson plans for Year 7 - 10 that meets standard Australian curriculum links for Drama and English.

Each year group has two linked lessons with warm-ups, discussion topics, roleplay activities and extension activities.

In addition, the roleplay games and discussions relate back to the learning continuum of personal and social capability, developing students Self-Management, Self-Awareness, Social Management and Social Awareness.

Objective

Students will develop vocabulary related to the topic of stereotypes; they will engage in discussion and roleplay activities that explore what stereotypes are and how stereotypes are perpetuated. They will be encouraged to think about their personal experiences and observations to share their ideas about how stereotypes affect behaviour. They will reflect on social structures and responsibilities, develop personal social capabilities, and reflect upon their role in their families and communities.

Main Concepts

• How and what makes a stereotype?

• Are you affected by stereotypes?

• Does a stereotype change the way to see other people.?

Description

Building on their experience after watching the circus show Casting Off, students will explore different aspects of personal and social capabilities through discussion and roleplay activities.

Students will learn the benefits and disadvantages to stereotypes. For example, each time we assume a Doctor is a man we continue to support the idea that women are not likely to be doctors. And yet when we see women wearing a head scarf, we may be more aware of behaviour that might be offensive to their religion.

Students with well-developed social and emotional skills find it easier to manage themselves, relate to others, develop resilience and a sense of self-worth, resolve conflict, engage in teamwork and feel positive about themselves and the world around them.

The development of personal and social capability is a foundation for learning and for citizenship.

Personal and social capability involves students in a range of practices including recognising and regulating emotions, developing empathy for others and understanding relationships, establishing and building positive relationships, making responsible decisions, working effectively in teams, handling challenging situations constructively and developing leadership skills.