DOI

https://doi.org/10.25772/QGGS-J563

Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9240-099X

Defense Date

2018

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Fine Arts

Department

Theatre

First Advisor

Karen Kopryanski

Second Advisor

Dr. Keith Kirk

Third Advisor

Dr. Aaron Anderson

Abstract

Abstract

INTEGRATING THE FELDENKRAIS METHOD INTO THE VOICE AND SPEECH CLASSROOM: INTERTWINING LINKLATER VOICE AND THE FELDENKRAIS METHOD

By Janel R. Miley Knipple, MFA

A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Fine Arts at Virginia Commonwealth University.

Virginia Commonwealth University, 2018.

Major Director: Karen Kopryanski, Head of Voice and Speech, Assistant Professor

Department of Theatre

Proprioception and kinesthetic awareness are important factors in actor training as performers strive to increase their physical and vocal prowess in order to respond to the demands of roles. The Feldenkrais Method, a somatic approach to learning that promotes greater awareness, has been utilized in actor training for decades; however, the historical details, measurable impact, and benefits of the Feldenkrais Method in this field have been largely undocumented. In this thesis, I will examine the history of the Feldenkrais Method, particularly considering interactions between theatre artists and Feldenkrais.

In addition, I will suggest new possibilities for creating a voice and speech curriculum that integrates the Feldenkrais Method, providing both historical precedents and current findings to support the efficacy of incorporating the Feldenkrais Method into actor voice and speech training. Referencing experiences of how the Feldenkrais Method and the Linklater Progression have worked together to improve my own acting and teaching, I will conclude with a strategy on incorporating the Feldenkrais Method into voice and speech training.

Rights

© The Author

Is Part Of

VCU University Archives

Is Part Of

VCU Theses and Dissertations

Date of Submission

5-8-2018

Included in

Acting Commons

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