17. ISOBEL WOLFF: PROTECTING PLAY IN CHALLENGING TIMES

17. ISOBEL WOLFF: PROTECTING PLAY IN CHALLENGING TIMES

Author: Exploring the power of play in contemporary culture January 10, 2025 Duration: 54:02

Emma talks to Isobel Wolff, National Director at The Flying Seagulls, who for 15 years have been spreading laughter, play and silliness as far and wide as their net will cast.

Isobel is an actor-musician and trained singer and works in both fields. She also works as a pro-bono musician and clown for the Children's Theatre charity and the The Flying Seagull Project, travelling and performing in the UK and internationally. As part of the Flying Seagulls Izzy has taken play into difficult environments and to vulnerable communities. She shares why play isn’t just for when we’re feeling in a good mood but is vital to protect and bring into the darkest of times.

On this episode, Emma and Isobel discuss (with timestamps):

00:00 - Intro

01:17 - Taking play into ‘non-playful situations

02:34 - The role of play in those situations

05:12 - Play is a ‘right’ for children

05:37 - Life before The Flying Seagulls

06:44 - Style of play (clowning)

08:21 - How is clowning different to acting?

12:34 - Universal hypnotism

15:02 - Duck duck goose

18:57 - Expectation layering

22:30 - Getting kids to play

25:53 - Performance intimidation

30:49 - The science and magic of play

36:02 - Play in mainstream education

40:20 - Izzy’s childhood playtime

41:43 - Work play vs Down time play

43:05 - Tips for integrating clowning into everyday life

To find out more about The Flying Seagulls and all the great work they do, use the link below:

https://www.theflyingseagullproject.com



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit playfulden.substack.com

The Playful Den Podcast digs into the serious business of having fun. It’s a space where curiosity meets conversation, examining how a playful approach influences everything from scientific innovation and educational methods to personal growth and social bonds. Each episode unpacks a different facet of this core idea, moving beyond theory to find the practical applications in our daily lives. You’ll hear from researchers, artists, parents, and community organizers who are actively integrating play into their work and homes, sharing stories that reveal its profound impact on creativity, resilience, and connection. This isn’t about nostalgia for childhood games, but rather an investigation into a fundamental human drive and how we can harness it. The discussions are thoughtful yet accessible, blending evidence from various fields with relatable anecdotes. Whether the topic is designing better learning environments, fostering mental well-being through imaginative practices, or understanding how play shapes cultural trends, the aim is to offer tangible insights. The goal of this podcast is to provide a consistent, engaging exploration that encourages listeners to reconsider their own routines and perspectives, finding opportunities for lightness and invention where they might not expect them. Tune in for a regular dose of inspiration that makes the case for incorporating more spontaneity and joy into the fabric of contemporary life.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 27

The Playful Den Podcast
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