Playmakers

Unleash Your Creativity These Holidays!

This December and January, Carclew House becomes a buzzing hub of imagination, laughter, and live performance! Young theatre-makers aged 10–17 are invited to join a two-week creative challenge (or one-week introduction) led by some of Adelaide’s most exciting theatre artists.

Choose Your Creative Adventure!

  • Week 1 only: Perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a fun, focused introduction to theatre-making and performance. With sessions focusing on improvisation, storytelling, physical comedy, and character creation!
  • Week 2 only: For experienced participants, dive straight into creating! You’ll join a focused group working with one devising technique (from Week 1) to develop original pieces for performance—plus learn how to score them with custom sound designs!
  • Weeks 1 & 2: The ultimate creative challenge! Build on Week 1 skills, collaborate with peers, and craft an original performance complete with sound design for the Carclew Summer Theatre Festival.

(We highly encourage participants to attend both weeks for the full experience.)

 

What’s in Store?

Across two jam-packed weeks, students will explore:

  • Improvisation
  • Theatre devising & storytelling
  • Physical comedy & slapstick
  • Character creation and acting techniques

In January, participants will create their own original performances – complete with custom sound design and composition – ready to wow audiences at the Grand Finale; the Carclew Summer Theatre Festival!

 

The Grand Finale – Carclew Summer Theatre Festival

Friday 16 January

Carclew House comes alive with performances popping up in every nook and cranny – indoors and out! Friends and family can wander through the Carclew house and grounds catching shows in different spaces. It’s a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and the amazing work your young person has created.

All participants and families/friends are invited to check out the final performance.

 

Meet Our Amazing Artists/Workshop Leaders

Theatre devising and performance: Ashton Malcolm, Katherine Sortini and Hew Parham

Sound composition and performance: Jacob Plooij and Will Spartalis

 

Dates & Details

  • Week 1: Tue 16 – Fri 19 December 2025
  • Week 2: Tue 13 – Fri 16 January 2026
  • Festival Day: Fri 16 January (Performances from 4.30pm – 7pm)

Daily Schedule

Drop-off: 9.30am | Program: 10am – 3pm | Pick-up: 3 – 3.15pm

Festival Day extended hours: 10am – 7pm

Ages: 10 – 17

Cost: $400 for both weeks | $225 for one week

Payment Plans Available

Carclew is committed to making our events accessible. To discuss payment options or ask questions, email carclew@carclew.org.au.

Limited spots available – book now!