Reducing interference| Harnessing the power of spirituality in actor training

• Main Author: May, Asha Kamali
• Language: EN
• Published: California State University, Long Beach 2016
• Subjects: Theater|Spirituality
• Online Access: http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=10124513

<p> This thesis investigates spirituality as a tool to reduce interference in actor training. Interference is defined as anything that inhibits the actor from reaching full potential in performance. Actor training promises to prepare the actor for performance; however, the looming threat of anxiety often debilitates the actor, blocking him/her from reaching full potential. This thesis investigates spirituality as a tool to reduce interference, while exploring the relationship between the actor and fear. This thesis defines spirituality as a metaphysical power used to release habitual tension in the actor, and not as a religious term. Through Eastern practices, sports psychology, and techniques espoused by master teachers Michael Chekhov and Jerzy Grotowski, this thesis argues that harnessing the power of spirituality can be an effective way to reduce interference in performance.</p>