About

Silent Approach Masterclass

Separate Doors and Queen's Theatre Hornchurch are partnering to offer a Masterclass and workshops for anyone interested in learning about how to create an accessible rehearsal space. Using non-verbal techniques, the Silent Approach has been developed to allow work with professional learning-disabled, neurodivergent and non-disabled performers to take place on an equitable basis.

The Masterclass and workshops are free, but you do need to book your space, and we kindly ask that you cancel your ticket if you can no longer make it.

What will I learn?

• How to direct and rehearse text-based theatre without relying on words and scripts.

• An accessible way to work with actors who process and use language differently.

• How to set up, run and manage a rehearsal room in a way that works well for neurodivergent and learning-disabled talent.

• How to see the rehearsal room and standard process through a new perspective and find new ways to work with different kinds of people.

Who is it for?

Theatre professionals, theatre professionals in training, youth theatre leaders, workshop facilitators, actors and anyone interested in how to create an accessible rehearsal space. The afternoon sessions are open to anyone who enjoys singing and dancing, professionally or for fun.

When and where?

Fri 25 Apr 2025 at Queen's Theatre Hornchurch

9:30am – 10am: Registration in the foyer

10am – 12pm: Silent Approach Masterclass

12pm – 1.15pm: Free tea, coffee and scone

1.15pm – 3pm: A choice of one of 3 sessions (please only book your preferred session):

Session 1: Singing with composer Loz Kaye – no previous singing experience required

Session 2: Tea dance with movement director Angela Gasparotto – no previous dance experience required

Session 3: Q & A with directors Kate Lovell and Helen Abbott about the Silent Approach – all welcome but may be particularly suited to theatre professionals

3pm – 4pm: Sharing and close of day

What do I need?

Please come in clothes and shoes you can move in and be ready to participate physically, including floorwork for the morning Masterclass.

Please note – All sessions will run simultaneously. Please book only one session.