When we teach actors to show emotions, we need to go beyond showing a sad face, or an excited child. We need to give the actors context in which to show the sad face, or any other emotion.
To focus on emotions, write down a list or ask for suggestions from your class. Feel free to use the list I have provided at the end of this article, and add to it if you like.
For the emotion (or quality) "angry," have the students suggest situations that make them angry. For example, a person might feel angry if they get fired from their job. A person might feel angry if their best friend lied to them about... Do this for all of the emotions.
Divide the students into pairs. Each pair receives or picks one of the emotions and a situation. Give them a few minutes to confer and rehearse a pantomime with each other.
Bring the class back together and each pair can perform a pantomime that displays the emotion.
Pantomime works best with this exercise. When students rely on the use of words, they are less likely to show, and more likely to tell.
