Living Statues workshop: Embody the Story

Saturday 8th November | 10am – 6pm
St Saviour’s Church, Larkhall, Bath

With nearly 3,000 characters across its 66 books, Scripture invites us to discover truths through their stories.

In this creative, hands-on workshop, you’ll use posture, facial expression, and space to create frozen moments from Scripture that speak volumes without words. No acting experience or lines to learn—just imagination, collaboration, and a willingness to explore.

Style: Practical, relaxed, and open to everyone.

What We’ll Explore:
The Basics – Easy warm-ups and simple techniques to get started
Body Language – How to express emotion, relationship, and story through stillness
Storytelling – Creating powerful tableaux to accompany readings or reflections
Optional Extras – Depending on time and group preferences, we may also try short monologues or explore how to convey abstract ideas like Grace or Freedom through posture
Living Statues is always a group activity—it’s about creating scenes together, not performing solo. The magic happens in the collaboration!

• Still as stone – Once we’ve decided on our pose, we freeze!
• Silent storytelling – Say everything without saying a word.
• Creative freedom – You decide how to show emotion and action.
• No pressure – It’s all about exploring, not performing.

• Date: Saturday 8th November
• Time: 10am – 6pm (with breaks and lunch)
• Venue: St Saviour’s Church, Larkhall, Bath
• Capacity: 20 people
• Cost: £20 suggested donation
  (If £20 is a stretch, please contribute what feels comfortable. Your presence matters more than a fixed fee.)

Birte Papenhausen is a drama theologian and missionary who helps people explore faith through creativity and group-based storytelling. With a background in acting and drama therapy, and over a decade of mission experience in Mongolia, she now trains others through Arts Release and WEC International. Picture below.

Rachel Leigh-Wood, who is currently training as a Living Statues facilitator, will also be involved in leading parts of the workshop.

Also check out other Workshops in Bath, Arts events in Bath, Performances in Bath.