Primary pupils explore physics through dance and theatre

An interactive show hosted by Imperial brought physics to life using high-flying aerial dance.

Attended by 250 primary school pupils, the Flying Atoms show and workshop helped young people explore the principles of physics with interactive dance, theatre and music.

Through the performance, the young audience were asked to consider puzzling conundrums: How do birds stay in the air? Why don’t stars fall from the sky? Why does the moon go in the daytime?

Pupils then took part in workshops where could explore some of the scientific principles they’d learnt about in the show. They worked together to launch planets into orbit, and blended circus with science as they practiced plate-spinning to help them see forces at work.

The show was developed by Powys Dance company - a charity which aims to use dance as a means to inspire creativity and stimulate learning among people of all ages and backgrounds.

Ayla Barhamgi, a year five pupil from Al Muntada Primary School, said: “My favourite part was watching the performers climb up on the ropes and do amazing tricks. I do gymnastics, so I recognise some of the moves.”

Nasri Ahmed, from the same school, said: “I liked the fact that they were teaching us using dance. It was exciting, and a different way to learn. I think I want to be a teacher when I’m older so that was really interesting.”