The Actor's Way

Can 'stage presence' be acquired? Why do some actors appear more dynamic in performance than others? In The Actors Way four experienced actors talk about the secrets and the practical realities of over twenty-five years of theatre training with Odin Teatret. Under the unique direction of Eugenio Barba, director of Odin Teatret, they have explored issues such as the connections between physical and mental work on stage, how to gain and control the spectator's attention, and intercultural performance techniques. The Actor's Way is a fascinating account of personal and professional development in the theatre. It will be vital reading for drama students and actors, but enjoyable and illuminating for anyone interested in the craft of acting.

Erik Exe Christoffersen is Associate Professor at the Department of Dramaturgy, University of Aarhus and director of Theatre Akadenwa. He has worked closely with Eugenio Barba and Odin Teatret for a number of years.

Introduction 1 THE FOURTH FLEW INTO THE FIRE AND BURNT UP 2 THE CLOSED ROOM: 1964-74, 3 JOINING ODIN TEATRET 4 THE OPEN ROOM: 1974-82, 5 TRAINING, TECHNIQUE AND THEORY 6 BUILDING THE THEATRICAL CHARACTERS 7 DRAMATURGY 8 THE DANCING TIME-SPACE: 1983-8, 9 THE TRAVELLERS OF SPEED 10 THE SCREAM OF THE BUTTERFLY 11 THE SHADOW OF ANTIGONE 12 THEATRE AGAINST THE CURRENT: THE THEATRE OF REFUSAL 13 THE SPECTATOR'S PERSONAL THEATRE