Noticing how people express feelings through facial expressions and body language.
Exploring how facial expressions can change quickly as feelings shift.
Seeing the faces and bodies of the audience show what they are feeling without words.
Noticing the difference between what someone's face shows and what words might not be saying.
Thinking about how Darci kept her mouth still whilst still connecting with the audience.
Exploring how people can communicate in many different ways, including through performance, silence, and gesture.
In this clip from America's Got Talent, 12-year-old Darci Lynne Farmer walks onto the stage looking nervous and giggling as she talks to the four judges. Darci tells the judges that she started ventriloquism two years ago to help her overcome her shyness. She carries a hand puppet called Petunia, a pink rabbit in a glittery gown. When the music begins, Darci performs a ventriloquist act in which Petunia appears to sing the song 'Summertime'. Darci's mouth stays still while the powerful voice comes out. As the performance goes on, the judges and audience members show changing expressions on their faces, including surprise and delight.
• What did you notice about Darci's behaviour at the start?
• How do you think she was feeling?
• What was Darci's special talent?
• How do you think Darci was able to sing without moving her mouth?
• How did the faces of the judges change during the performance?
• What did you notice about how the audience was reacting?
• How do you think Darci felt during the act versus what her body and face was showing?
• Do you think Darci's voice matched what her face showed?
• Have you ever had a feeling that showed on your face before you said anything?
• What do you think it feels like to have people watching your face very closely?
The questions within this guide are designed to open dialogue and facilitate discussion around the relevant topics. It is up to the user to adapt as needed to best suit the person they are supporting. A neuroaffirming approach was central to the design of these resources and remains essential to their application. This means recognising and respecting the diverse ways people think, communicate, and experience the world, ensuring all conversations are led with curiosity, respect, and without judgement. These resources are a starting point. Trust your knowledge of the person you are supporting to shape the conversation from there.
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