Workshop 1 – the present

Learning intention

This activity will help you understand the world of Neighbourhood Watch and the contrast between the physical closeness of the neighbourhood, yet the social distance all the characters have. Your objective is to stage collaboratively the suburban neighbourhood setting, capturing the essence of interaction and proximity without meaningful connection, extending on what is depicted in the play's opening scenes.

Instructions

• As a class, read the opening 2 scenes of the play. Pay particular attention to the stage direction that sets the scene of the beginning the play. Notice how the play establishes that the characters live in very close proximity to each other, but don't make any meaningful connection.

• In groups of 4 to 6, cast yourselves in the roles of Ana, Catherine, Ken, Katrina, the postman, and Jovanka. Note: you may have to omit some characters from your scene or double up.

• Begin by thoroughly familiarising yourselves with the characters you are portraying. Discuss their personalities, quirks, and relationships within the suburban neighbourhood. Consider how each character perceives and interacts with the others. Note: you might want to brainstorm together and write character profiles as preparation.

• Work collaboratively to stage the suburban neighbourhood in action (2 to 3 minutes). This should be a non-literal representation, focusing on creating the atmosphere and dynamics of the neighbourhood rather than detailed physical props or scenery. This is also in keeping with minimalist staging as a contemporary Australian theatre convention.

• Block out the actions and movements for your characters that reflect their roles and interactions within the neighbourhood. Maybe they're going about their chores or they are on their way to or from something. There may even be moments of comedy as the neighbours just miss connecting with one another. Note: you may wish to incorporate sound, vocalisation or music elements to enhance the atmosphere.

• Dedicate time to rehearse and refine your staged neighbourhood lacking connections. Focus on maintaining the established atmosphere, character interactions, and choreographed movements. Pay attention to timing and pacing.

• Each group will present their staged neighbourhood to the class. After you watch other groups' performances, discuss how they effectively convey the sense of interaction and proximity without meaningful connection. Also discuss what this reflects about contemporary Australian society and culture at the start of the play.

Reflection

After all groups have performed, answer the following questions as written reflection in your study notes (around 300 words total).

• How did you use stage action and the elements of production to create the atmosphere and disconnection of the suburban neighbourhood?

• Did the performances effectively extend on the play's opening scenes? How?

• What did you learn about character dynamics and relationships within the suburban neighbourhood through this activity?

• How can this understanding of the neighbourhood setting inform your future exploration of Neighbourhood Watch and its cultural, social, political, personal and artistic ideas and concerns?

You may also want to add this workshop evidence to you study notes (see the Study notes page).