The short video tutorial is taken from courses at the NILE Institute, Norwich

Freeze frames are a quick and effective way to start a drama session. They can easily be used with any age from children to adults. Participants create an image using their bodies – with no movement. Freeze frames can be made by individuals, small groups or even the whole group.

A good way to explain a freeze frame (also known as still image) is that it is like pressing the pause button on a remote control, taking a photo or making a statue. The images can be made quickly without discussion – or they can be planned and rehearsed. They are very useful as an immediate way of communicating ideas or telling a story. They can be used to represent people or objects and even abstract concepts like emotions or atmospheres. As there are no lines to learn, freeze frames can help shyer performers to gain confidence.

When viewing a series of freeze frames, try using Open and Close. Bring the images to life through improvisation using Action Clip. Freeze-frames can be usefully combined with Thought Tracking, Forum Theatre or Flashbacks and Flash Forwards.
Read next: