To what extent does an actor's performance improve when the Feld-enkrais Method is applied to the rehearsal process?

Abstract

This study examines how an actor's performance and acting ability can be enhanced by applying the Feldenkrais Method(FM) to their rehearsals.The study concentrates on heightening a performers awareness and the connection between their body and mind, in order to identify and eliminate their bad habits; a patterned behaviour or movement that can become detrimental to a persons mental or physical health. The work demon-strates that by finding this new awareness and connection, an actor will be able to en-hance their performance by creating stronger images within their character develop-ment, as well as developing their ability to be present on stage and communicate with the audience. The research focuses on the researcher's learning and understanding of the FM, identifying their own habits and finding ways to eliminate these to create a stronger and more organic performance. By focusing on the researcher's performance skills, the study further shows how the FM can be an effective tool for any actor to en-hance the movement of their body and their ability to perform. The practical research is completed through the researcher's own learning and understanding of the technique, which is then furthered theoretically through traditional academic research. A DVD demonstrating the practical work undertaken accompanies this study to provide an in-depth analysis in tandem with the written component.