Secondary Education Programme

Explore the world of comedy through the work of MISCHIEF, the award-winning company behind smash-hit stage stage shows The Play That Goes Wrong and The Comedy About Spies, and BBC comedy series The Goes Wrong Show, available to watch on iPlayer.

Designed for secondary school level, the workshops build skills in confidence, collaboration and creativity while celebrating joy and playfulness back in the classroom.

Over six lessons students will learn the different disciplines of comedy through practical games and exercises that can be taught in the classroom. This incredibly interactive and engaging programme can be taught as presented, or teachers can use the games and exercises that Mischief use in the rehearsal room to scope their own comedy masterclass.

Each session explores key elements of their approach – from physical comedy and improvisation to timing, ensemble play and the art of things deliberately falling apart – giving students the chance to experiment, perform and create their own comic moments.

OBJECTIVE

Students will learn about different disciplines of comedy and the Mischief methodology of being serious about silliness.

OUTCOMES

Students will have put the two main rules of comedy into practice through a series of exercises.

Students will engage in discussions around comedy and identify what mediums they enjoy.

Students will begin to embrace mistakes and see them as growth opportunities, fostering creativity and innovation, and developing their emotional intelligence.

When working as an ensemble, students will enhance creativity and teamwork, forming new relationships and developing trust in peers.

Workshops and playful exercises improve confidence, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Students are supported to step out of their comfort zone and embrace their individuality.

Students build self-esteem, public speaking skills, and a sense of humour.