Contemporary Theatre biomechanics, developed by the Ostrenko brothers, is a method of theatre training that places great emphasis on physicality, action and movement of actors. As in general biomechanics, in Ostrenko's approach movements should embody the number of contrasting qualities to create expressive and dynamic performances. Let's explore how these contrasting qualities apply to stage acting.
Softness and Hardness:
Softness in acting can be likened to the gentle embrace of a warm breeze, where emotions and gestures flow with a delicate touch.
Hardness, on the other hand, is the striking force of a hammer, delivering powerful and precise emotional impacts on the audience.
Roundness and Squareness:
Roundness in acting is the graceful dance of a rolling wave, with movements that curve and flow like water, conveying elegance and fluidity.
Squareness is the unyielding structure of a block, representing rigid, angular movements that convey stubbornness or abruptness.
Slowness and Acceleration:
Slowness in acting is the deliberate crawl of a snail, allowing the audience to savor every moment and dive deep into a character's thoughts and feelings.
Acceleration is the lightning strike, electrifying the stage with sudden bursts of energy and excitement.
Opening and Closing:
Opening movements are like the petals of a blooming flower, revealing the character's innermost thoughts and emotions to the world.
Closing movements can be compared to the protective shell of a turtle, shielding the character's vulnerabilities and secrets.
These metaphors help actors visualize and embody the contrasting qualities in their performances, allowing them to create vivid and memorable characters on stage. Just as nature's elements and phenomena can be soft or hard, round or square, slow or fast, open or closed, actors draw inspiration from these metaphors to infuse their movements with depth and meaning, enhancing their ability to connect with the audience on a profound level.
Join us at the NIPAI’s Theatre Biomechanics Workshop in Berlin, happening from January 8th to 11th, 2024, and elevate your performance skills to new heights.
About the Workshop:
Explore Contemporary Theatre biomechanics, developed by the Ostrenko brothers.
Learn how to find inspiration, captivate audiences, and command the stage.
Experience a comprehensive warm-up regimen.
Collaborate with artists from diverse backgrounds.
Instruction by Jeremy Vik, a multi-disciplinary performer with 20 years of experience in acting, circus, and physical theatre.
Participant Requirements:
Good physical health.
A creative mind.
A playful spirit.
The workshop will be conducted in English. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your craft and connect with fellow artists. We look forward to welcoming you! 😊