Alchemy of the Extraordinary: David Glass Ensemble workshop

Alchemy of the Extraordinary: A Four-Day Intensive in Physical and Ensemble work with David Glass

Join David Glass, for a transformative four-day workshop exploring the fundamentals of presence, movement, and collective creation.

This immersive experience will guide participants through core principles of physical theatre, ensemble dynamics, and the artistry of embodied storytelling.

David Glass is a globally renowned theatre practitioner and educator who has worked in 75 countries, bringing a deeply practical and dynamic approach to physical and ensemble theatre. With 45 years of experience in directing, teaching, and continuous learning, his work is rooted in essential fundamentals that empower performers and creators alike.

Who is it for?

Actors, directors, choreographers, dancers, movement practitioners, theatre makers, and educators interested in deepening their understanding of physical and ensemble theatre. No prior experience is necessary - only a willingness to explore, play, and engage fully.

Where and when?

The workshop will be held at The Danish National School of Performing Arts in Copenhagen, from April 29 to May 2, 2025.

Workshop will include the following areas 

The Body as an Expressive Instrument

• Foundations of presence and focus in physical theatre
• Developing élan: good contact, good suspension, good energy, and pleasure
• Introduction to fundamental grammer of physical theatre: impulse, journey, and fixed point
• Exploring qualities of movement: breath, rhythm, and dynamic shifts
• Practical exercises in melodrama and comedy

The Seven Levels of Tension

• Understanding and embodying the seven levels of tension (inspired by Lecoq):
• Exploring how tension shapes character, emotion, and storytelling
• Developing awareness of physical states and transitions
• Applying tension work in improvisation and scene-building

The Art of Ensemble

• Fundamentals of central and peripheral vision in group work
• The practice of giving and receiving: active listening and response
• Lowering judgment, embracing “Yes, and” and “What if?”
• Introduction to chorus work and elements within the ensemble
• Practical applications in group movement and storytelling

Translation, Transformation, and Play

• Exploring elements, imitation, and translation in the body
• Working with textures, atmospheres, and movement qualities
• Deepening ensemble collaboration through structured improvisations
• Creating short devised pieces incorporating workshop principles
• Final reflections and shared performance exploration

Key Takeaways

• A strong foundation in physical and ensemble theatre techniques
• A deeper connection to the body as a storytelling tool
• Enhanced ability to work intuitively and responsively within an ensemble
• Practical skills to apply in theatre-making, performance, and teaching

This workshop is highly physical, immersive, and playful, offering a hands-on approach to creativity and expression. Expect to move, discover, and push artistic boundaries in an environment of exploration and shared learning.

Believing that learning and community learning sits at the heart of a workshop, David Glass uses his Navajo University Circle to integrate participants own practices, knowledge, wisdom and experience into this rigorous and intensive workshop.

Alchemy of the Extraordinary

Alchemy of the Extraordinary is the culmination of 45 years of David Glass’s learning and practice, offering a transformative approach to theatre and creativity. Alchemy of the Extraordinary programs are happening around the world through institutional and independent partners. 

The work is structured around three core programs: 

• Program 1: Physical Theatre & Ensemble 
• Program 2: Devising & Creative Practice 
• Program 3: Directing & Creative Leadership 

Each of these areas equips participants with robust, practical skills in theatre-making while extending far beyond the stage. The principles explored are applicable in institutions, organizations, education, and project development, making them invaluable tools for creative innovation in any field.

This reflects David Glass’s belief that theatre is not only a means of making powerful performance work but also a vehicle for developing essential skills for the wider world - skills that are more vital now than ever.

David Glass’s Creative Practice is a unique and courageous exploration of the archetypal experience of being human.

- Peter Brook, International Theatre Director

He has a unique imagination and a truly political provocation. David makes theatre about things that matter.

- Paule Constable, Olivier and Tony Award Winning Lighting Designer