"This paper is Stanislavskian-based" – an examination of actor training and practice in English Canada. Issue 1 (2nd January 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Julien, Martin
• Is Part Of: Stanislavski studies. Volume 5:Issue 1(2017)
• Page Start: 49
• Page End: 54
• Publication Date: 2017-01-02
• Subjects: Stanislavski -- English Canada -- actor training -- pedagogy -- psychophysical -- emotion memory; Theater -- History -- Russia (Federation) -- Periodicals; Criticism and interpretation -- Periodicals; Influence -- Periodicals; 792.028
• DOI: 10.1080/20567790.2017.1294840
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2054-4170

Abstract

Abstract: Throughout English Canada, a variety of methodologies based on Stanislavski's "system" have been the centrepieces for actor training at a majority of colleges and universities for decades. Far from being a calculated pedagogical gambit, this practically unquestioned aquiescence to a pre-professional psychophysical training framework that consists of early Stanislavskian concepts such as "emotion memory", "given circumstances" and the "magic if" has developed as a default response to hegemonic notions regarding the "marketplace" and a "common language". The potential ramifications of this situation are examined, with specific reference to similar practices in the UK and the US.