Aims
This module examines the work of Vsevolad Meyerhold from his early years as a pupil of Stanislavsky to the break with the Moscow Art Theatre and the development of the theory of biometrics, an important precursor of conceptual and physical modes of theatre. In particular, the module looks at Meyerholds work as a revolutionary artist in politics as well as in the theatre. The module uses both physical exercises and work on selected scenes to arrive at an organic understanding of Meyerholds ideas and working methods.
Syllabus
The notion of stylised theatre as a reaction to naturalism
Popular forms of theatre (the fairground booth, puppetry, story telling) and their application to established texts
Biomechanics and its application to a physical approach to acting and pre acting
Contructism in theatre design and the cinefication of theatre
Meyerholds use of objects and spaces
Meyerhold and Mayakovsky, the theatre of the October Revolution
The sociological approach to character and relationships
Sharpening contradictions as a dramatic principle.
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and understanding of and ability to demonstrate
Relationships between theoretical and practical challenges to directors
Diverse rehearsal processes and techniques
Translation of complex theoretical models into practical application
Rehearsal techniques
Guidance of acting
Critical playtext reading
Group working
This module examines the work of Vsevolad Meyerhold from his early years as a pupil of Stanislavsky to the break with the Moscow Art Theatre and the development of the theory of biometrics, an important precursor of conceptual and physical modes of theatre. In particular, the module looks at Meyerholds work as a revolutionary artist in politics as well as in the theatre. The module uses both physical exercises and work on selected scenes to arrive at an organic understanding of Meyerholds ideas and working methods.
Syllabus
The notion of stylised theatre as a reaction to naturalism
Popular forms of theatre (the fairground booth, puppetry, story telling) and their application to established texts
Biomechanics and its application to a physical approach to acting and pre acting
Contructism in theatre design and the cinefication of theatre
Meyerholds use of objects and spaces
Meyerhold and Mayakovsky, the theatre of the October Revolution
The sociological approach to character and relationships
Sharpening contradictions as a dramatic principle.
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and understanding of and ability to demonstrate
Relationships between theoretical and practical challenges to directors
Diverse rehearsal processes and techniques
Translation of complex theoretical models into practical application
Rehearsal techniques
Guidance of acting
Critical playtext reading
Group working