February 13, 2026 | A two-day storytelling workshop for pre-primary and primary teachers in Hetauda, Nepal
Titled “Introduction to Storytelling – From Story to Stage,” this workshop was designed to introduce teachers to simple, practical tools that can help them make storytelling more interactive and engaging in the classroom. About 15 teachers from pre-primary and primary grades participated in 3 hours training divided in two sessions of 1.5 hours each. The focus was on doing—experiencing storytelling through activities rather than only discussing it.
Workshop Program
Starting with Play and Warm-Up
The workshop began with simple warm-up games.
These helped participants get comfortable with each other, loosen up, and prepare both body and voice. It also set the tone for an active and participatory session.
Exploring Objects Through Story (Props Work)
Teachers were introduced to a “mystery bag” filled with everyday objects.
Each participant picked an object and explored different ways it could be used beyond its usual purpose. This led to a collaborative storytelling exercise, where each person added a line—using their object in imaginative ways.
This activity showed how simple materials can become powerful storytelling tools.
What is a ‘Setting’ for a Story?
Using image theatre techniques, teachers explored how to build a story setting using movement.
Working with the familiar story of Rabbit and the Tortoise, they imagined walking through a jungle at different times of the day. They explored how a rabbit or a tortoise might move, and what they might see, hear, or feel.
This helped them experience how physical movement can deepen imagination and understanding of a story.
Building Characters
Teachers worked in groups to develop characters from the story.
They discussed details such as age, behavior, voice, and personality of each character in the story. This helped them move beyond surface-level storytelling and think about characters in a more detailed and structured way.
Developing a Scene
Each group selected a moment from the story and expanded it.
They imagined what happens before the characters meet, what actions are involved, and how the interaction unfolds. They then created dialogues and decided how the characters would use body and voice to express themselves.
Presentation
The workshop ended with group presentations.
Using only their bodies, teachers performed their scenes. Each group brought a different interpretation, showing how the same story can be explored in multiple ways.
The Experience
The sessions were active and collaborative.
Teachers moved, discussed, experimented, and presented together. Over time, they became more confident in using their voice, body, and ideas.
The workshop also created space for connection—teachers worked closely in groups, shared ideas, and supported each other through the process. The sessions took place in a indoor auditorium space that allowed flexibility for movement and group work.
Participants were actively involved throughout—standing, moving, discussing, and presenting. The atmosphere remained focused but open, allowing teachers to try new approaches without hesitation.
Many Thanks To
- Principal Reena Acharya and supporting team of Solidarity International Academy, Hetauda
- All the teachers who participated
- Bansri Pandey – Facilitator
- Shishir Siwakoti – Photography Support
- Pragya Pandey and Surbhi Darnal – Support
Concluding Remarks
This workshop focused on practical application.
By the end, teachers had experienced how stories can be explored through objects, movement, and performance—not just narration. These tools can be adapted easily into classroom practice to make learning more engaging and participatory.
To know more about our work, please feel free to Contact Us
Leave a Reply