The body, it’s such an intriguing instrument. A statement made without any facial or body movement can convey a thought. Repeat that same statement without changing the tone of voice but raise an eyebrow or bring a shoulder forward and the message changes. Of course, the receiver of the message must be looking at the deliverer. That in itself increases the chances of the receiver interpreting the correct message.
Mime, the very word conjures up images that make me smile. Physical humor has always been a favorite of mine. A person could tell a joke and I’d laugh. Have that person add the physical component and I’d roar with laughter.
As a child I loved to watch Dick Van Dyke trip over a hassock or Lucille Ball work on an assembly line. When I was older I was fortunate to see Marcel Marceau perform. I found that I not only laughed, but could also be brought to tears through his silent gestures. Something wonderful happens when a person uses their body to the fullest of their ability.
In my unit I will explore the use of mime through the following:
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Present an overview of the history of mime, describing some of the basic components.
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State the objectives for using mime with my present population.
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Give strategies in aiding the process which will become a range of improvisations without words.
