by our exhibitions and the collection.
Victorian Manchester
Pupils are introduced to how and why Manchester grew during the Victorian period, by taking on the personae of characters from Ford Madox Brown's painting Work.
Through drama activities and character development, they are encouraged to empathise with the rich and poor to gain an understanding of the important issues of the time.
You can extend this workshop by visiting www.manchestergalleries.org.uk/ford-madox-brown where you will meet again the characters from the painting Work and find a wealth of interactive whiteboard activities.
Aims (Skills, Knowledge, Activity, Result)
- To develop investigative skills to discover the difference between rich and poor in Victorian Manchester.
- To discover that mid-Victorian Manchester was very much shaped by the migration of people in and out of the city.
- To study one artwork closely through role play to learn about different types of work in this era.
- To stimulate empathy, understanding and reflection around issues relating to social status, housing and working roles.
What happens in a workshop
The children are introduced to four characters from Ford Madox Brown’s painting ‘Work’. They each take on the role of one of these characters and remain in role throughout the session. Armed with props, they set out to explore the gallery starting with the exterior of the building and the street outside. They start to experience that the character they are affects how they are treated and what they are allowed to do. Using a variety of drama techniques, discussion and a tour of artworks they experience the effects of poor people moving from the country to the city and learn about the importance of different types of work.
Prepare for your visit
- Find out how to plan your visit, including booking information, parking, facilities and a downloadable risk assessment.
What people are saying about the workshop
“The drama workshop was fantastic- one of the best days in my 41 years of teaching.”
Teacher, Moorlands Primary, Cumbria
“Loved the use of interaction and drama – can’t wait to follow it up in class with the whiteboard resource.”
Teacher, Lark Hill Primary, Stockport
