This course is a studio-based introduction to the methods and practices of creating physical theatre through an ensemble. Solo and group improvisational work will lead towards the creation of original material, both imagistic and text-based. We will investigate strategies of how to adapt stories to the stage through image, text, sound and movement.
Using a multitude of approaches to physical theatre, this course investigates the roots of ensemble action as a story telling tool. We will use group exercises to discover how an ensemble can create together and discover new vocabularies for stage action. Techniques from Bogart, Grotowski, Lecoq, Laban and others will be explored alongside encouraging students to develop their own techniques and strategies towards creating work and an aesthetic. Each class will focus on both training and hands on project work. When possible, we will have visiting artists who work in these methods, visit the class. Students are encouraged to see and report back on outside work that demonstrates these techniques.
Students will experiment with newly introduced rehearsal methods to create a culminating ensemble project. To build on the context of past and current ensemble work, we will spend time researching companies including Complicite, Theatre de Soliel, Double Edge, SITI Company, Odin Teatret and others. Each student will research one of these ensembles including their productions and training methods.
- Teacher: Rachel Dickstein