What is the Berkoff style?

Berkoff often uses the chorus in a stylised sequence of movement, usually heightened both vocally and physically. Just like a traditional Greek chorus they reflect the mood of the story and express what the main characters cannot say. He uses bouffon as well as chorus.

What is the main aim of Berkoff’s theatre?

Berkoff wanted the impact of his performances to to shock, amuse or amaze. He wanted the opposite of naturalism. There are few props used; instead actors rely on mime to portray different items. The acting is very much exaggerated and non-naturalistic.

Why does Berkoff mask?

Here, according to Berkoff, the mask’s function is simply “anonymity” (The Fall of the House of Usher 42). The Berkovian use of the mask is a contradiction, meant to dehumanize while accentuating character. Layered in meaning, they create anonymity.

How does Berkoff use sound?

The manipulation of sound through language is a central element of Berkoff’s acting style, but so is the creation of sound effects. Actors might create literal sounds like missiles exploding, or, environmental sound effects like winds blowing through trees.

What are the seven levels of tension?

Seven Levels of Tension

  • Exhausted or catatonic. The Jellyfish.
  • Laid back – the “Californian” (soap opera).
  • Neutral or the “Economic” (contemporary dance).
  • Alert or Curious (farce).
  • Suspense or the Reactive (19th century melodrama).
  • Passionate (opera).
  • Tragic (end of King Lear when Lear is holding Cordelia in his arms).

How did Brecht influence Berkoff?

The German playwright Brecht left Germany when Hitler came to power. His plays show his anti-fascist stance, and were also innovative, in particular his Verfremdungseffekt (alienation effect) which Berkoff uses in East where actors destroy naturalism by, for example, addressing to the audience.

What is total theatre in drama?

What Is Meant By Total Theatre? A theatre performance that is viewed through an entire system of elements. In order to add value to audiences, each element must play an active role.

What are the four types of dramatic tension?

4 Types of Tension to Include in Every Story You Write. The four types of dramatic tension and how to employ them.

  • The Tension of Relationships. This is a tension we all feel in our everyday lives.
  • The Tension of the Task.
  • The Tension of Surprise.
  • The Tension of Mystery.

    • What is the purpose of the seven levels of tension?

    Lecoq’s Seven Levels of Tension The Seven Levels of Tension aims to help actors transition into different emotions and to connect with and develop their characters (Lecoq and Bradby 89).

    Did Berkoff create total Theatre?

    Berkoff did not invent total theatre! However, after studying drama and mime in London and Paris, he drew on his own experiences as a performer to create theatre that demonstrated a full and complete immersion of the actor in the rehearsal and performance process…