I have two layouts of 9 panels. The first one below is with all figures, based on the feedback from the first round. The boys are in more disco-type clothing (and details will be added.) Also, images will all be cleaned up for final too - pencil smudges, glass/cocktail details etc. I am somewhat leaning towards the first layout with all figures as I think it works together as a whole piece a bit better. But I also like the faces in the second layout as well, it would just come down to preference.

This is the second layout with 2 faces swapped for 2 figure panels. I did try the heads with all black but it compared to the other panels they we much more black and dark so thinking an outline works better. I like the faces but do wonder if the first one might work a bit better. But again, totally up to you!

I know you mentioned collage as well, but the collages I do are much bigger, the smallest being around 8 x 10 inches. Although these are too small to cut, one option is mounting each panel on cardboard or foam core. This would raise each panel ever so slightly, giving some depth and a bit of texture. But can also just mount each panel directly to paper.