Workshop Coordinator Vanessa has a fun activity you can do wherever you are with whatever is around you. All you need is any device with a camera (phone works fine) if you are sending images to a teacher for credit or posting online. Click on the video above, or read the instructions below, and create a "tableau diary" that documents your day and your mood.

Hi! My name is Vanessa, and my background is in theatre education and dance. I have a suggestion for something you can do in whatever space you currently occupy. We are going to make a three-part tableau story that represents your day.

“Tableau” is a French word for “living picture,” a frozen image of a scene where the actors are stationary. I invite you to make three tableau images to represent the beginning, middle, and end of your day during the stay at home order. Start by checking in with yourself and identifying a phrase that describes the mood or emotion you might feel in the moment. Then, think about how you might represent or even exaggerate the word using objects around you as props or costumes (with permission), lighting, or background. If you are quarantining with someone, perhaps invite them to participate.

Here is an example of my three-part tableau story:

Theatre can help us become aware of our emotions while creating art, especially during challenging times. Use your creativity as a guide to express feelings you might be experiencing. This will help you not only document your day and emotional process but, most importantly, allow yourself to have fun! Go ahead and try it out, and remember to tag @artworxla if you post any of the images.

Stay safe, and don’t forget to wash your hands! —Vanessa