Movement | Body
PILLAR II – MOVEMENT | BODY
The actor and their body are not only inseparable, they are so intrinsically tied that without proper apparatus training, strengthening, and use of language, the actor risks growing physically illiterate and never reaching his/her true potential.
The work. Students will embark upon a comprehensive understanding of the physical aspects of performance. Through a combination of theory and practical exercises, they will explore various techniques to enhance their body awareness, movement skills, and physical expressiveness on stage. Students will develop a deeper connection between their bodies and emotions, enabling them to create more authentic and impactful performances.
STUDIO INTENSIVE: Introduction to Body Awareness and Posture (Week 1 & 2)
- Importance of body awareness in performance
- Basic anatomy and alignment principles
- Breathing exercises and relaxation techniques
- Posture and its role in conveying character and emotions
STUDIO INTENSIVE: Fundamentals of Movement (Week 3 & 4)
- Exploration of different qualities of movement (e.g., weight, time, space)
- Improvisational exercises to develop physical expressiveness
- Introduction to Laban Movement Analysis
- Use of props and objects to enhance movement vocabulary
STUDIO INTENSIVE: Physical Characterization (Week 5 & 6)
- Creating distinct physicality for characters
- Observational studies and character embodiment
- Historical and cultural influences on movement styles
- Scene work focusing on character movement and interaction
LAB WORK: Choreography and Stage Composition (Week 7 & 8)
- Basics of choreographing movement sequences
- Understanding rhythm and tempo in performance
- Group choreography and ensemble work
- Spatial awareness and composition within the stage space
LAB WORK: Movement in Different Theatrical Styles (Week 9 & 10)
- Exploring movement in various theatrical genres (e.g., realism, physical theatre, dance theatre)
- Adapting movement techniques to suit different styles
- Collaborative scene creation emphasizing movement and physicality
LAB WORK: Integrating Body and Emotion (Week 11 & 12)
- Emotionally grounded movement and gesture
- Physical storytelling and nonverbal communication
- Scene work with a focus on integrating body and emotion
- Final performances showcasing students’ enhanced body and movement skills
Learning Assessment:
- Participation in practical exercises and workshops
- Performance of movement sequences and choreography
- Scene work presentations demonstrating character physicality
- Written reflections on the relationship between body and emotion in performance