About this activity

In this workshop, you will explore an introduction to Alistair’s approach to ensemble theatre-making.

Through grounding techniques, physical and vocal training, and improvisation, we are able to activate our emotions and expand our imagination. This leads to having a real ownership of text, and a heightened realisation of who the character is.

Through ensemble work, the workshop will offer exercises that connect with the body’s senses and subconscious desires, creating work that is reactive and not prescriptive. The goal is to create performance that is raw and authentic.

The workshop will be fun, interactive and embody the importance of play. Bring water and clothes you can move about in!

About the artist

Alistair Wilkinson (they / them)

Alistair is a highly experienced, multiple award-winning Curator, Maker, Cultural Producer, and Artist Developer, working across stage, screen, sport, gaming, and immersive environments.

They trained at Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, as well as on The Royal Court’s Invitation Writers Group, and completed an MA at RADA/ Birkbeck. In the past they have made work for organisations such as the BBC, Punchdrunk, Sky TV, the National Theatre, the FA, and the Barbican Centre, amongst many others.

Alistair was recently appointed as the first ever Creative Lead at the National Football Museum; they are also the former Head of Artist Development at The Old Vic; and in 2022 led on all talent development at Punchdrunk, working in the UK, internationally and digitally, with a specific focus on launching the critically-acclaimed The Burnt City, as well as settling them into their new Woolwich home. Their work at Punchdrunk won the company the Business of the Year from the Royal Borough of Greenwich, and Partner of the Year from Greenwich University.

In 2017 Alistair founded WoLab, a working laboratory for artists to create. They are an Associate Artist at The National Youth Theatre, a Connect Artist for RTYDS, a Trustee for Boundless, and a Script Reader for The Bush Theatre, Theatre503, and The Papatango Prize.

They also work as a Wellbeing Practitioner and Access Worker, supporting artists across all disciplines realise their creative ambitions. In addition to this, Alistair is as an experienced fundraiser; to date, they have raised over £18m in funding for various artistic adventures.

Hot Prospects creative workshops

The National Football Museum is looking to team up with young people from the Greater Manchester area, engaging with our collections and exploring the links between football and creativity via a series of free artist-led workshops.

On Monday evenings and Saturday daytimes, the museum will play host to in-person sessions, exploring how art can harness the creative power of football. You can sign up for one, or all, whatever takes your fancy!

Following on from these workshops, you will be invited to apply to Hot Prospects, our first ever youth advisory group.

Hot Prospects: Ensemble Theatre-Making