Just clowning about!
Holiday Workshop proves that drama + science = fun
A mobile theatre group is aiming to turn science into fun and kill the summertime blues.
Live Wire is holding a series of science workshops during the summer holidays for children of primary school age.
Formed a year ago by science graduate Vanessa Chew, the group consist of eight actors who use drama to portray science themes.
Based in Grampian, they have toured 40 schools from Elgin to St Cyrus near Montrose since last September, presenting their science shows to more than 3,000c children.
There are 12 different workshops on offer this summer. Children will develop their understanding of the themes using mime, expression and interpretation.
Among the features on offer are juggling, volcanoes, clowns, penguins, electricity, music and a bicycle.
"Live Wire was formed to promote science and these workshops bring it into the community on an everyday level," said Vanessa.
"Every child taking part gets something to do. We believe that hearing is forgetting, seeing is remembering and doing is understanding. Drama + science = fun!"
One workshop - My Clever Bicycle - involves clowns. It demonstrates how you can make music by running a stick through the wheel spokes, teachers about wind distribution, balance and friction.
Another - The Lava Story - is a volcano workshop involving pirates who find out how a volcano erupts.
Airyhall Community Centre in Aberdeen's Countesswells Road hosts the workshops next month, beginning on July 12. August workshops will be held at 17 Bon Accord Square, below the YMCA.
There will be senior workshops for children aged nine to 12 and junior ones for children aged five to eight. Each workshop costs £3.50, including refreshments, and lasts an hour and a half. Booking is essential.
For more details and to get a booking form write to Vanessa Chew at Heathfield Park, Newtonhill, AB39 2RZ or phone 01569 730002.
Evening Express, Friday 16 th June 1995