For many parents, the idea of enrolling their child in a new theatre class sparks a mix of pride and gentle curiosity. What will they actually experience during that hour and a half? Are these kinds of workshops really right for a beginner? The best way to build confidence is to understand, from the inside, how a session unfolds.
For many parents, the idea of enrolling their child in a new theatre class sparks a mix of pride and gentle curiosity. What will they actually experience during that hour and a half? Are these kinds of workshops really right for a beginner? The best way to build confidence is to understand, from the inside, how a session unfolds. This article pulls back the curtain on the structure of a children's theatre class in 2025—a nurturing journey from warm-up to cool-down, so you and your child can look forward to the wonderful experience that awaits.
Understanding the organisation of these artistic workshops is key, regardless of the child's age. A dedicated school structures its teaching method around play to enhance learning. The goal isn't to shape professional actors from day one, but to weave a safe cocoon where every child can let their creativity blossom and build confidence in themselves and within the group. This is where the development of the self begins.
The Welcome and Warm-Up (15 min): Building Group Confidence
Every theatre class begins with a fundamental moment: the gentle transition between the school world and the creative space. The teacher welcomes the youngsters and invites them into a series of exercises designed to weave confidence and cohesion within the group. More than just a physical warm-up, it’s a ritual that prepares the heart, body, and mind for the creative work ahead. The process of speaking up and taking one's place begins here, in an atmosphere of complete kindness.
Opening Rituals for Cohesion
The teacher often starts with playful activities in a circle to build connection. These might be rhythm games that awaken focus, a "sound-pass" where each member of the group receives and transforms a sound, or even an "inner weather report" to share their emotions. These simple yet profound rituals help the children connect with one another, cultivate mutual listening, and feel they belong to a team. The group then becomes a supportive play partner for the rest of the class.
Preparing the Voice and Body
Once the group is in harmony, the warm-up focuses on the actor's precious instruments: the voice and the body. For the voice, expect deep breathing exercises, resounding yawns, and fun tongue-twisters that release tension. For the body, gentle stretches and poetic mirror games encourage non-verbal expression and spatial awareness. This foundational work is essential for helping children express themselves freely on stage later in the year.
The Heart of the Workshop (45 min): Learning Through Improvisation
The central part of the class is a time for exploration and discovery, touching upon the art of acting through the joy of play. For children, the most intuitive way to learn theatre is to live it fully. Improvisation is the cornerstone of this teaching approach. The teacher suggests exercises that spark imagination and spontaneity, giving every beginner the freedom to jump in without the pressure of a script. This is the very essence of theatrical training.
Improvisation: The Engine of Creativity and Listening
Improvisation, affectionately called improv, is much more than a game. It is a profound practice of listening, accepting others' ideas, and co-creating. Improv workshops might include challenges like inventing a story from a single object, performing scenes without words, or reacting to unexpected situations. This practice awakens spontaneous creativity and develops great mental agility in children. It’s a precious skill for the stage and for life.
Exploring Interpretation: Characters and Emotions
Guided by improvisation, the youngsters naturally begin the sensitive work of interpretation. The teacher supports them as they explore different characters and a rich palette of emotions. An exercise might be to cross the room like a majestic king, then like an agile spy. This role-playing is the first gateway to acting, allowing them to feel how the body and voice can convey an intention. Expression then becomes a conscious, embodied act.
Preparing for the Show (30 min): Working on Stage
In the final part of the class, the treasures discovered during the improv workshops are gently applied to more structured work. This is often when dreams of the end-of-year performance begin to take shape. This phase channels the group's vibrant creativity towards a joyful, common goal: connecting with an audience. Stepping onto the stage becomes the celebrated culmination of their entire development.
Working with Scripts and Staging
Working with scripts is introduced gently and thoughtfully. It’s not about simple memorisation but about diving into an understanding of the characters, relationships, and dialogue. The teacher helps the children breathe life into the words. The group then collaborates to sketch out a staging, exploring movements and intentions. It's a wonderful way to integrate theatrical discipline and respect for each other's work—a formative experience for children and teens alike.
Preparing for the Audience: Managing Stage Fright
One of the most beautiful gifts of theatre is learning to welcome and transform one's emotions when facing an audience. Good training incorporates exercises to tame stage fright. The teacher shares breathing and concentration techniques to help turn stress into vibrant energy. The goal isn't to erase fear but to give the children the confidence they need to share their work with joy and pride during the show.
Beyond the Session: Development Over a School Year
While a single class offers a window into this world, the real transformation blossoms over the course of a full school year. The weekly rhythm of this structure allows seeds to be sown that sprout and grow over the months, deepening every facet of their theatrical training. The child develops a lasting ease, both in spontaneous improvisation and in the sensitive interpretation of texts. This continuity is the secret to a fulfilling artistic education within a dedicated school.
In many cities in French-speaking Switzerland, like Lausanne or Geneva, an art school offers a coherent educational path that supports the student throughout the year. This ongoing training is the best way for a child to see their progress and thrive. The teacher can then adjust the activities to the group's evolution, ensuring a tailored and deeply enriching experience in every canton.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions from Parents
My child is very shy, is this type of class suitable?
Absolutely. Theatre provides a wonderful, safe space for a reserved child. The gradual approach, the supportive group dynamic, and the improvisation games help them build confidence gently, at their own pace. It's a beautiful way to get in touch with their own expression.
At what age can they start these workshops?
Most schools offer classes adapted to each age, often starting from 6 years old. The teaching methods evolve with them: it is centred on play for the youngest and enriched with more in-depth work on scripts and characters for teens.
Do you need experience to join a class mid-year?
For a beginner, starting at the beginning of the school year is ideal for integrating naturally into the group and following the collective progression, especially if a performance is being prepared. Nevertheless, some schools happily welcome new children during the year, depending on availability.
Does theatre help with film or other arts?
Yes, the fundamental skills of acting, emotional awareness, and physical expression learned in theatre are a valuable foundation for film and many other disciplines. It's an excellent initial training.
What is the budget for a year of theatre classes in Switzerland?
Prices vary, but for weekly training, a monthly budget is usually expected. The cost in CHF depends on the class duration and the school's structure. Feel free to ask what the fee includes (materials, costumes for the show, etc.).
Are there workshops offered during school holidays?
Yes, many organisations run exciting theatre workshops or camps during the holidays. It’s a perfect opportunity for a child to discover the activity in an immersive way or to deepen their experience.
A Complete Journey in 90 Minutes
A children's theatre class is much more than an activity: it's an inner and collective journey. In 90 minutes, it guides a child from the safety of the group to the freedom of personal expression on stage. Each workshop is a new adventure where improvisation unleashes creativity and where working towards a performance builds confidence. This artistic training is a priceless experience, offering tools for the stage and, most importantly, for life.
By giving your child the chance to learn this art, you are giving them the keys to better communicate, collaborate, and flourish with their emotions. For children and teens in the region, weekly theatre classes are offered in Lausanne, Yverdon, and Etoy from age 6, with monthly fees starting at 79 CHF.