This summer, Familie Flöz opens the doors to its unique world of mask theatre with three immersive workshops in August.

From a first encounter with the mask to in-depth exploration and the rare chance to step into scenes from an original Flöz play, participants are invited to discover the poetic power of storytelling without words.

Join us for an inspiring journey in Berlin!

Our courses are generally designed for interested individuals with various levels of experience. The courses Exploration and Discovery and Repertoire are aimed at experienced performers. Please send us your CV and a short letter of motivation with your application.

The focus of each workshop is shaped by the artistic background and personalities of the facilitators.

LED BY NICOLAS WITTE

In this basic 5-day workshop, participants will explore the masks of Familie Flöz. The aim of the course is to develop a fundamental understanding of what it takes to work with masks and how to communicate powerfully without words. What does it take to breathe life into a static form - the mask? The focus lies on the essential elements of mask performing: through the mask, participants discover a state of physical presence and learn how to bring the mask to life through movement, emotions, posture, tension levels, and breathing. This process allows a new, independent, and unique character to gradually emerge. Actors become creators, storytellers, and performers of their newly created characters. By using physicality and playful imagination, participants explore and develop mask play. Through simple improvisations and short, structured scenarios, the connection between the mask, interaction with fellow actors, and engagement with the audience is examined. The mask serves as a starting point for initial encounters and the stories that unfold from them. Nicolas focuses on refining and inspiring each participant’s acting skills, refreshing their expressive range, and enhancing performance clarity through straightforward technical tools. The workshop emphasizes continuous reflection and collaborative, playful exercises to foster growth and creativity.

LED BY VALENTINA BORDENAVE, MICHAEL VOGEL

Each day begins with “tuning the instrument” through UNFOLD – led by Valentina Bordenave, founder of the method – an effective movement and awareness training that enhances balance and coordination. From this heightened body awareness, which recognises personal postural and movement patterns and provides tools for their transformation, artistic potential can fully unfold. The second part of the day – led by Michael Vogel – begins with a large selection of masks. Working in pairs or groups of three, participants choose which masks to engage with: selecting one to focus on in order to get to know it better and explore it more deeply. Attention is given to each mask’s biography, strengths and weaknesses, surface and core. At the same time, the mask serves as a tool for self-discovery. Attention repeatedly returns to what has been created and how it has taken shape. These outcomes may become starting points for individual creations. Reflection and discussion accompany this process, allowing space to share thoughts and insights.

LED BY FABIAN BAUMGARTEN, VALENTINA BORDENAVE

What does it feel like to step into a Familie Flöz play? This workshop offers a rare opportunity to explore mask performance through the lens of our repertoire – using masks, costumes, and stage design from our acclaimed production Hotel Paradiso. Rather than starting from scratch through improvisation, you will work with existing material – clear scene structures that serve as a foundation for your exploration. This approach allows you to break down the barriers of mask work more easily, develop a deeper understanding of what it takes to inhabit these characters, and focus your energy on the details of scenes, masks, and character development. By working within defined parameters, you gain more time to refine your craft and discover what is truly needed to bring these characters to life. Fabian Baumgarten, performer in Hotel Paradiso and long-standing member of Familie Flöz, will guide you through this immersive six-day journey. Each day begins 'tuning the instrument' with UNFOLD – led by Valentina Bordenave, the founder of the method –, an effective movement and awareness training that enhances balance and coordination. From this heightened body awareness, which recognises personal postural and movement patterns and provides tools for their transformation, artistic potential can fully unfold. The workshop culminates in a small showing on the final day, where you will present the scenes you've worked on throughout the week. This workshop is aimed primarily at stage performers.

Previous experience with masks or familiarity with Familie Flöz's work is required.

Please send a your CV and a short letter of motivation.