Location:

London, United Kingdom

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Summer

Program Overview

Program Description:

In this first-ever workshop of it’s kind, Alba Emoting, Michael Chekhov and rasaboxes are combined to offer actors a unique and intensive experience into their emotional capabilities and become a true Athlete of Emotions.

The Alba Method Certification Level 1 (30 hours of Training)
An alternative to emotion memory and other psychological techniques for releasing, maintaining, and controlling emotional states on stage; The Alba Method is the result of more than 20 years of research by neuroscientist Dr. Susana Bloch with professional and student actors in Europe and South America.

 
 Alba Method identifies ...six "basic" emotions: anger, joy, sadness, fear, tenderness, and erotic love. These are the "primary colors" of emotion; all other emotions are "blends" of these. Each of the basic emotions has its own unique, identifiable set of effector patterns; emotional neutrality is also precisely patterned in the body. By establishing three aspects of these patterns—breathing, facial expression, and posture—an actor can enter and leave an emotional state at will.

 

rasaboxes

The rasaboxes are a unique psychophysical approach to training actors is based on classical Indian theory found in the ancient text of the Natyasastra which suggests the aesthetic experience that theatre provides can be found in eight types of emotional essences or “Rasas”, produced both in the experience of the performer and shared with its audience members.

Instruction begins with expressive movement and expansive breathing exercises which enables the actor to create physical forms and gestures for the eight emotional states (fear, rage, love, wonder, laughter, the heroic / courage, sadness / pity, disgust ).  The interactive play of energy of these eight essences of emotion can manifest and be expressed physically and vocally in many varieties, shades and blends.

The rasaboxes training is improvisational and interactive at its core, it offers a performer and an ensemble specific tools and techniques for finding a truthful, fully embodied sense of presence and emotional specificity through direct physical engagement. It integrates rather than separates acting, movement and voice, engaging the whole instrument of the performer.

 

Michael Chekhov Technique 

Transformation is explored through the basic principles and exercises outlined in Michael Chekhov's book To the Actor. This includes psychophysical exercises and ensemble improvisation designed to develop the organic connection between the actor's sensations, creative imagination and expressive body through Chekhov's core exercises: Expanding/Contracting, Staccato/Legato, Radiating/Receiving, Ease, Form, Beauty, Entirety, Qualities of Movement, Imaginary and moving Centres, Archetype, Gesture, Imaginary Body, Character and Scenic Atmospheres. Rigorous ensemble play and exploration for building concentration, imagination and presence.

 

Setting Description:

This course is taught on our parkland campus in specialist rehearsal and performance spaces and theatres.

Cost:

800 GBP. This course runs from Wednesday 12th to Saturday 22nd July 2017. Classes take place 9.00 to 5.00 each day and all teaching will be led by Dr Jessica Beck (Alba Emoting), Dr Michele Minnick (rasaboxes) and Janice Orlandi (Chekhov). Fee includes all classes and training, meal plans and wifi access. On campus housing available for an additional fee.

Additional Program Information

Requirements:

Applications are welcome from those aged 18+. Candidates should actively enjoy all aspects of practical drama work, be motivated, enthusiastic and prepared to devote time to the study of texts and rehearsal.

Scholarships:

No