Over four creative and collaborative days, we’ll explore the worlds of Studio Ghibli — where nature, spirit and humanity intertwine. We’ll begin by looking closely at Ghibli’s distinctive aesthetics, themes and characters, asking what resonates with us and what we might want to reimagine or abstract.

Through improvisation, theatre games, writing, world-building, set and costume design, and a hands-on puppet-making workshop, we’ll devise an entirely original theatre work inspired by Ghibli’s spirit of transformation and wonder. Participants can contribute in whatever way they feel most at home — through performing, writing, drawing, designing or production.

Together we’ll build a new world filled with creatures, spirits and strange transformations, shaped around themes of courage, empathy and the magic that connects humans and nature.

The program includes three days of creative development at Balam Balam Place and one production and performance day at Next Wave’s Brunswick Mechanics Institute.

Expect to:

• Imagine and invent new creatures and landscapes

• Laugh, play and make new friends

• Build sets, props and puppets from everyday materials

• Develop characters and scenes through improvisation

• Collaborate to shape a shared story

• Perform on a professional stage for family and friends

Our days move between making, imagining and resting — giving participants time to focus, collaborate and recharge.

9 – 10 am | Calm Start
A gentle beginning to the day with a drawing and crafting table set up for quiet creative time.

10 – 12:30 pm | Workshop Session One
Morning warm-ups, theatre games and creative development (with a short morning-tea break).

12:30 – 1:15 pm | Lunch Break
Supervised lunch in the kitchen and outdoor area at Balam Balam Place.
Catering option available. (See our FAQ section)

1:15 – 4 pm | Workshop Session Two
Afternoon devising and making session — continuing scene work, design, and puppet creation (with an afternoon-tea break).

4 – 5 pm | Cool-Down & Reflection
A relaxed end to the day where participants can unwind and watch selections from the Studio Ghibli catalogue to inspire the next day’s work.

This workshop is designed for the creative, the curious, and anyone who loves stories, characters, and making things come to life.

It’s for those who enjoy drawing, acting, writing, crafting, imagining new worlds, or simply trying something different — this is a space to experiment, play, and connect with others who share your spark.

Participants will be divided into two age groups (8–11 and 12–16) for parts of the program, ensuring activities are age-appropriate while still coming together to build one shared performance world.

UNDERARTS welcomes people of all abilities, identities, and backgrounds. We’re committed to creating a space where disabled and/or neurodivergent participants, LGBTQIA+ young people, and those from culturally diverse communities feel safe, seen, and supported.

Our facilitators are experienced in working with diverse ensembles and support each participant to contribute in their own way — whether through performing, writing, designing, or building.

No prior theatre experience is required — just imagination, curiosity, and a willingness to try something new.

The program is led by Allison Wiltshire and Ahmarnya Price, two artists and facilitators with a shared passion for helping young people tell stories, take creative risks and make something entirely their own. With backgrounds in theatre, visual art and community practice, they’ve worked across Australia and internationally in youth and professional arts contexts — from Arts House and Next Wave to St Martins and Back to Back Theatre.

Allison and Ahmarnya’s workshops are playful, collaborative and inclusive. They combine performance, writing, and design in ways that encourage curiosity, empathy and imagination — creating a space where every participant can contribute, experiment and shine.

$400 per participant
10% sibling discount (e.g. $720 for two siblings).

We know every family’s situation is different, and we don’t want cost to stand in the way. We’ve worked to make the program as accessible as possible, but if price is still a barrier, please reach out at hello@underarts.com.au — we’ll do our best to find a solution together.

What age group is the workshop for?
The workshop is open to young people aged 8–16. While that’s a wide age range, participants will often work in smaller groups (8–11 and 12–16) for parts of the program, so activities are age-appropriate. Everyone comes together to create one shared world and final performance — a structure that encourages collaboration, mentorship, and inclusion.

Do participants need any theatre experience?
Not at all. The workshop is designed for all experience levels. Whether your child loves acting, drawing, writing, crafting, or simply imagining new worlds, there’s a role for them.

What do participants need to bring each day?
A packed lunch, water bottle, and snacks (unless choosing the catering option). Comfortable clothes they can move and create in — and that can get a bit messy! Hats and sunscreen are also recommended for outdoor breaks.

What do you provide?
We provide all creative materials, including craft supplies, puppetry and prop-making materials, and basic costume items. Participants might occasionally be asked to bring a small costume piece or accessory from home to expand their character.

What are the facilities like?
We’re lucky to work across two beautiful spaces:

• Balam Balam Place, a brand new community arts hub with air conditioning, shaded outdoor areas and a fully equipped kitchen — perfect for relaxed creative work and making days.

• Brunswick Mechanics Institute (Next Wave), a professional theatre with lighting, sound and backstage facilities, where we’ll rehearse and perform on the final day.

Both spaces are bright, accessible and comfortable — ideal for creative adventures in the middle of summer.

Is lunch provided?
Participants can bring their own lunch or choose our optional catering add-on (details provided after registration). Morning and afternoon tea breaks are also supervised.

How big are the groups?
We keep groups small with a maximum of 16 participants and at least two facilitators present at all times. This ensures plenty of individual attention and a supportive, safe environment.

Can I come to the final performance?
Yes! Families and friends are warmly invited to the final show on Friday 23rd of January at 6pm at the Brunswick Mechanics Institute Theatre. The performance runs for around 30 minutes and entry is free.

What is your approach to child safety?
UNDERARTS is a Child Safe Organisation, committed to providing a secure, respectful and inclusive environment. All facilitators hold current Working With Children Checks and follow strict child-safety and duty-of-care procedures, including risk management, supervision, and consent protocols.

My child has access needs — can they take part?
Absolutely. UNDERARTS is committed to accessibility and inclusion. Please let us know any specific needs during registration so we can ensure the right supports are in place.

What if we need to cancel?
Full refunds are available up to two weeks before the workshop start date. After that, partial refunds may be possible depending on the circumstances.