International Physical Theatre Workshop (Berlin)
Acting in Physical Theatre
August 17-21, 2026 · Berlin, Germany · 28 hours / 5 days
An international intensive in Berlin for actors, directors, dancers, and movement-based performers who want to refine embodied storytelling and stage presence.
Strictly limited places. Selection based on CV; Language - English; certificate available upon completion.
Admission Is Competitive. The Cohort Is Exclusive
This intensive is designed for professionals and pre-professionals committed to rigorous practice: dancers, choreographers, actors, directors, circus artists, and other performers working with the body on stage.
Due to demand and the necessity of maintaining cohort integrity, enrollment is strictly limited and acceptance is based on your artistic background and CV. This ensures an environment of peer-level commitment and profound practical exchange.
Requirements for Participants
To join the International Physical Theatre Workshop, participants should meet the following requirements:
Professional Background
Experience in the performing arts.
Openness to Experimentation
Readiness to explore new methods and ideas.
Collaboration
Willingness to actively engage in group work, including physical contact, and contribute to a collaborative environment.
Etiquette
By participating in our events, participants are expected to follow our etiquette.
Language Proficiency
Working language is European English.
Application
Submit a resume (CV). Selection is competitive and based on professional background and alignment with the training’s goals.
What This Week Focuses On
The curriculum includes:
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various exercises focusing on improvisation, space exploration, and partner interaction, progressing from simple to complex;
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methods for building ensembles and enhancing performers' physicality and creativity;
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approaches for analyzing plays, working on text with dancers and actors, and integrating movement and text to make performances more dynamic;
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exposure to Meyerhold's "Biomechanics," M. Chekhov's "Psychological Gesture," and Stanislavsky's "Physical Action."
This workshop is ideal for professional artists seeking to improve physicality in acting, ensemble building, rehearsal structuring, and networking with practitioners from different countries. Participants will gain exposure to new techniques and methodologies under the guidance of the experienced Ostrenko Brothers.
Key Takeaways
During the workshop you will focus on clear, repeatable physical actions, partner work and composition in space.
The aim is to give you practical tools that you can bring directly into your rehearsals, teaching or performance work.
Professional Transformation
This is more than training; it's a laboratory for transforming raw impulses into disciplined performance, establishing a robust aesthetic core for your future work.
International Network
Join a global community of practitioners who value depth, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence. Build lasting connections with peers at your level.
Methodology
Gain validation and structure for your practice through proven techniques from masters of the craft, giving you confidence in your work.
International Physical Theatre Workshop:
Gallery & Videos
Past Participants
Getting feedback through our tasks is what makes NIPAI innovative for me. It encourages their students to make creative decisions by themselves, without being reliant on teachers or other external influences for reassurance. Finding the balance between structured teaching and guidance without interference is challenging, and NIPAI’s approach has been outstanding.
Juliane Brommeland, Norway
Google Maps review
Very nice organization and professional guidance that rooted in the shared fundamental skills of performing arts. It was especially pleasant for me to discover that the mentors has extensive artistic background and really mean to help you grow as a performer and director. Because as an emerging talent myself, I have been approached by so many people who only want to take advantage of young professionals to run their business. Really glad that NIPAI is not one of them.
Xueni Yang, Czech Republic
Google Maps review
Tuition, Schedule & Funding
Early Bird Tuition: €450 (valid until 27 December 2025)
Regular Tuition: €550 after this date.
The fee covers full participation in the 5-day international workshop (28 working hours) and certificate of completion (subject to full attendance and report submission).
Accommodation and meals are organised by participants; for registered participants we can recommend accommodation options close to the venue.
Funding & Support
Depending on your country and professional status, you may be eligible for support from cultural funds, mobility programs, or your home institution.
To help you plan, we offer an overview of typical funding channels used by our participants.
Certificate & Creative Report
Upon completing at least 28 working hours of the workshop and submitting a short written or video reflection on your experience (approx. 1500 words for written reports), you will receive a certificate from the New International Performing Arts Institute (NIPAI).
Many participants use this documentation to support funding applications, residency proposals, or professional development reports within their home institutions.
Workshop Leaders
Director, choreographer and performance teacher with more than 40 years of professional experience. Sergei has directed over 40 theatre productions and led international projects in numerous countries across Europe and beyond, combining rigorous physical training with clear dramaturgical structure.
Movement director and specialist in theatre biomechanics, physical expressiveness and stage combat. Trained in fine arts, Gennadiy has dedicated his career to theatre, focusing on physical theatre and movement direction and frequently collaborating with his brother Sergei on international productions and training projects.
Venue
DOCK 11 EDEN,
Breite Str 43, 13187 Berlin (Pankow)
The venue provides a fully equipped dance and theatre studio suitable for intensive physical work. Registered participants receive detailed practical information, including how to reach the venue and recommended accommodation options nearby.
FAQs
What is the NIPAI Physical Theatre Workshop? The NIPAI Physical Theatre Workshop is an exclusive 5-day intensive training program held in Berlin, Germany. Led by master teachers Sergei and Gennadiy Ostrenko, this professional-level workshop focuses on psychophysical action, biomechanics, and movement directing. The program is designed for experienced performers - actors, directors, choreographers, and circus artists - committed to rigorous practice. Admission is competitive and based on professional background and artistic submission. The intensive includes 28 hours of focused work.
What is included in the workshop fee? Your workshop investment covers: Training & Instruction: - 28 hours of intensive practical training - Direct work with Sergei and Gennadiy Ostrenko (40+ years experience) -Artistic guidance Certification & Network: -Professional certificate of completion (requires full attendance + reflection essay) -Inclusion in NIPAI alumni network -Future workshop discounts -Connection to international community of practitioners NOT Included: - Accommodation in Berlin - Meals and daily expenses - Travel to/from Berlin - Personal insurance
Where is the workshop held in Berlin? The intensive takes place at DOCK 11 EDEN, a professional theatre space located at Breite Str. 43, 13187 Berlin (Pankow district). Getting There: Public Transport: Tram M1 to "Pankow Kirche" (5-minute walk) or S-Bahn to "Pankow" station (10-minute walk) Central Location: Approximately 20 minutes from Berlin city center Address for GPS: Breite Str. 43, 13187 Berlin Registered participants receive detailed venue information, including maps, nearby accommodation suggestions, and local amenities. The Pankow area offers numerous cafes and restaurants for lunch breaks.
What should I bring to the workshop? Come prepared for intensive physical work: Essential Items: - Comfortable, flexible movement clothing. Many participants prefer layers (t-shirt, long-sleeve, sweatshirt) as studio temperature varies with activity level. Avoid restrictive clothing, jewelry, or anything that inhibits movement. - Indoor training shoes or socks with grip (no street shoes in studio) Water bottle (hydration is crucial) - Notebook and pen for reflection and notes - Any personal items for physical comfort (knee pads, etc.) Recommended: - Change of clothes (you'll work hard!) - Light snacks for breaks - Personal first aid items if needed - Open mind and willingness to experiment