Physical Approaches to Acting and Storytelling
TDM 121MV
Subject & Catalog Number
Course Information
Description
This course will focus on introductory principles and practices of performative and material-generative movement. We will explore movement techniques foundational to: creating characters; generating scripts and narratives; economizing and grounding stage presence; fostering ensemble cohesion; sensitizing the body to its unique capabilities of expression.
Utilizing principles from Richard Maxwell, James Donlon, Charlie Oates, Anne Bogart, Blue Man Group and other ensembles/artists, we will attempt to anatomize an idealized ‘neutrality’, investigating the meaning and application of physical/environmental ’neutrality’ on stage. We will identify the roles personal idiosyncrasy and ‘disfluency’ can play in the pursuit of that neutrality, and the opportunities and challenges they present to the performer. We will investigate rudimentary components of story, uncovering along the way the most essential markers for perceiving story, emotion and thought in physical performance. We will explore the beginnings of creating character and story through gradual stages using both non-verbal and text-based story (solo body, body in relationship to object, bodies in interrelationship w/ each other). In the latter part of the semester, we will experiment with stylistic schools of physical performance, including mime, Blue Man Group, Charlie Oates sculpture work, clowning/acrobatics and Viewpoints, and will also investigate ensemble cohesion and material generation through games and improvisation.
Throughout the semester’s explorations, we will also develop basic familiarity with simple yoga flow sequences, Taoist tai chi and other body practices geared toward conditioning/lengthening/ strengthening the physical instrument.
The class will be both rigorously physical and dialectical, will include several short solo and ensemble performance pieces throughout the semester and will culminate in both a full-ensemble long form piece, as well as short individual pieces.
Course Notes
No prior acting/performance experience is necessary for this class! The class can become quite physical, so appropriate dress is strongly recommended (as is prior communication about any physical issues/pain that would effect your ability to move comfortably; alternatives to assigned movements that may cause issues can always be offered). This course satisfies the “Practical" requirement for TDM concentrators and Secondary Field students. Visit the Canvas course page for enrollment information and deadlines.
Available for Harvard Cross Registration
