DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/X2G7-6P03
Defense Date
2011
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Fine Arts
Department
Theatre
First Advisor
Barry Bell
Abstract
Physically, vocally, and physiologically something happens to the actor in rehearsal and performance that can impact the actor’s everyday life. Practitioners have described this as boundary blurring, emotional hangover, and post-dramatic stress. Even acting as a profession can breed stressful situations for the actor. Actors can combat the blurring, the hangover, and the stress through awareness and process. As a part of process, actors warm-up to prepare their bodies and voices and to transition from real life to stage life. An often ignored aspect of process, but no less significant than the warm-up, is the cool down. After researching the acting experience and the cool down, I introduced several student actors to the cool down during two productions and a workshop. Through these practical experiences, this research, and numerous interviews, I have compiled exercises to facilitate the transition between the acting experience and everyday life.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
May 2011