‘Seeing no stranger begins in wonder. It is to look upon the face of anyone and choose to say, “you are a part of me I do not yet know.”’ – Valerie Carr

To see and to be seen, to listen and respond, to connect with another fully and fearlessly: the actor trains to strip away habitual patterns that interfere with these facilities in order to reveal what is most authentic underneath. Opportunities to partner and build ensemble within a safe and nurturing space while honoring the ways in which actors understand themselves is paramount. Here, Alexander Technique becomes essential in group actor training.

This workshop is specifically designed to offer new pathways for AT instructors interested in working with actors in the studio. In this 90-minute workshop, participants will engage in group improv games repurposed to gently bring awareness to habitual responses in heightened moments, and to our universal desire to “try and get it right.” We will explore the connection of Inhibition to psycho-physical action and emotional accessibility, and participate in Direction-based partner and ensemble building activities. The workshop will also examine rehearsal and studio AT practices that celebrate mistakes and missteps, are supportive of process over product, and encourage actors to remain easy and mindful, not only to boost wellness, resilience, and honor personal boundaries, but to open creative pathways, take risks, and enrich performance experiences.