Some things that can be learnt about Brecht: Can the application of selected Stanislavskian techniques provide a new perspective on Brecht's Epic Theatre?

Abstract

This study investigates the effects on an actor's process and understanding of Bertolt Brecht's Epic Theatre, when combining his principles with selected elements of Stanislavski's method. This was measured through analysis and reflection on a series of seven practical workshops, during which adapted Epic and Method exercises have been used in the sketch 'The Jewish Wife' from Brecht's Fear and Misery of the Third Reich. This process gages the similarities and differences in the praxes of this research into these two practitioners. The participants were encouraged to discuss the material throughout the study and their responses and workshops were recorded and presented in an accompanying DVD. The content of the workshops and their changing attitudes over the course of the workshops suggested several key points of convergence between the two practices as well as some important limitations. The study concludes that there is some evidence to suggest that Stanislavski's work could aide an Epic actor in their process, but that understanding where and when to use these elements requires a more thorough exploration of the material.