Alexander technique applied to performance

Course

In London

£ 129 VAT inc.

Description

  • Type

    Course

  • Location

    London

  • Start date

    Different dates available

This course introduces Alexander Technique as a tool for the performer in you. Develop stage presence by discovering how to become aware of and move beyond your personal ingrained habits of reacting and thinking, moving and breathing, and how to free yourself for creative expression. This is a practical hands-on course with focus on the performance situation.

Instead of trying to teach us to be 'right', the Alexander Technique teaches us to stop doing and thinking the 'wrong' and allow the new, unknown 'right' to emerge. It requires using your whole brain, sensory mechanism, and emotional centre – your whole integrated being. It is an exciting journey into the unknown.

Facilities

Location

Start date

London
See map
Keeley Street, Covent Garden, WC2B 4BA

Start date

Different dates availableEnrolment now open

About this course

Integrate some basic principles and skills of the Alexander Technique in your performance; practice the Alexander semi-supine; recognise the need for stopping your habitual reactions as a means to changing your creative expression; and have a repertoire of breath and voice procedures to continue to practice Alexander Technique in relation to everyday life and performance.

Because of the nature of this course there are no examinations, material or extra costs. However, you are asked to wear loose comfortable clothing. Suggested reading: 'The Voice Book' by Michael McCallion; 'Bodylearning' by Michael Gelb; 'Use of the Self' by F.M. Alexander; 'Mind and Muscle' an owners handbook by Elizabeth Langford; Body, Breath & Being by Carolyn Nicholls, ‘Indirect Procedures’ by Pedro de Alcantara.

The Alexander technique is a practical method which involves the students’ participation through direct hands-on work from the tutor, self-observation, and students’ observation of each other. We will work in small groups and pairs involving interactive movement games and application to everyday activities.
Video recording will be used for learning and assessment of learning and achievement.

There will be observation and individual hands-on instruction applied to performance situations. Srudents are expected to prepare short pieces to perform in class. Musicians get the opportunity to work with their instrument. The tutor will also have volunteer teaching assistants for extra hands-on work. You will be given course hand-outs, and be expected to apply what you learn between classes.

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Subjects

  • Voice
  • Alexander Technique

Course programme

We will explore the basics of the Alexander technique through a range of practical procedures. You will become aware of, and unlearn, habits of misuse that show up as tension, restricting freedom of movement, breathing, voice and coordination.
Topics include:
• eliminating and avoiding habits of voice and facial and body gesture that interfere with breathing and the performance
• voice; vocalising, projection, range, embodiment
• centring and grounding
• spatial awareness
• balance and co-ordination
• controlling performance anxiety
• developing powers of observation
• focusing
• freedom and control of movement
• movement and staying true to the character
• Alexander Technique hands-on in the performance situation

Procedures will include basic Alexander Technique work; lying down work, sitting and standing, walking, and breathing. We will apply the Alexander principles to exploring freedom in movement, breath and voice as part of the whole person through a range of release and creative/expressive vocal and breathing exercises.
We will use a ‘master class format’ with peer group feedback and Alexander Technique hands-on in the performance situation.

Some anatomy and physiology will be introduced where applicable.

Please note that acting classes by their very nature can involve exercises and the exploration of material that some students may find challenging.

Additional information

As Alexander technique is usually learnt in a one-to-one lesson, you will be given information on how to continue learning. You will also be informed about other related courses at City Lit. You can also deepen your learning by re-enrolling for a further term. General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Student Centre and Library on Monday to Friday from 12:00 – 19:00. See the course guide for term dates and further details

Alexander technique applied to performance

£ 129 VAT inc.