LauraK. Vannah's Masters Thesis
The Spiritual Actor
The Power of Spirituality in Acting and Actor Training Using Spiritual Practices and Native American Animal Totems
by Vannah, Laura K., M.A., State University of New York at Binghamton, 2008, 275 pages.
Abstract (Summary)
This thesis is an investigation into the power of spirituality in actor training through the use of Native American Animal Totems, and how that can be applied to the dramatic action of a text, specifically Chekhov's Three Sisters. In a five week workshop, five students and I explored this idea, culminating in a lecture demonstration on February 29, 2008. The students matched totems with characters, looking at how both the known (calling) and denied (shadow) aspects of a totem within us can be found in the characters of the text. We also looked at how "natural prey" totems can help in understanding the dramatic action of the play. Spirit and spirituality have a place in acting and actor training. Totem work is an effective tool for actor training. The synergism of spirituality through totem work expands, gives depth to, and enriches every other technique, tool, and method of actor training.
Preview this amazing, cutting-edge work The Spiritual Actor.
I thought that finding the inner core and spirituality was interesting. There are things we hide and things that we present to the world. Spirituality is very essential to me as a person and as an actor, and when I saw your presentation I was very inspired and intrigued.
~ Lee G., Actor, NY
If you have any questions about this work or comments after reading this preview, please Contact Me. I would love to know what your thoughts and ideas are on it. Part of the 'grand experiment' was designed to keep the dialogue going, to keep experimenting with it, to keep exploring and expanding.
- What did you like most about it?
- What didn't you like about it?
- What would you have done differently?
I really look forward to your comments.
