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 key techniques used by Berkoff and Total Theatre?
Steven Berkoff A British theatre practitioner (born 1937) who is known for his experimental style. His plays often use physical theatre techniques like mime, exaggerated movement and improvisation. He believes that actors’ bodies should convey the story rather than relying on sets.
Why did Berkoff use masks?
Berkoff used masks/make-up to create eerie effects for The Fall of the House of Usher to emphasize the gaunt, skeletal features of the Ushers; his techniques walk a fine line between “special effect” and masks.
Why does Berkoff use chorus?
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. The Kabuki concept of jo-ha-kyo is common in Berkoff’s work.
Why does Steven Berkoff use mime?
In his adaptation of Coriolanus, Berkoff uses mime to show the attack on the gates of Rome that is referred to in the script but not the play. Language does not have to be included in the performance to be shown. Berkoff often left rejected ensemble acting in favour of one or two-man shows.
What is Berkoff’s style of theatre?
Theatrical style and use of convention ‘ Berkoff’s work is influenced by Greek theatre, Japanese Noh and Kabuki, Shakespeare, East End music hall and his Jewish heritage, as well as using the techniques of practitioners like Artaud and Brecht.
What are Berkoff’s influences?
Berkoff’s work is influenced by Greek theatre, Japanese Noh and Kabuki, Shakespeare, East End music hall and his Jewish heritage, as well as using the techniques of practitioners like Artaud and Brecht.
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.
Does Berkoff use mime?
In his adaptation of Coriolanus, Berkoff uses mime to show the attack on the gates of Rome that is referred to in the script but not the play. Berkoff said of Shakespeare that he wanted to “evoke and resignify”[1] the language of Shakespeare through movement and modern slang.
Did Brecht inspired Berkoff?
‘ Berkoff’s work is influenced by Greek theatre, Japanese Noh and Kabuki, Shakespeare, East End music hall and his Jewish heritage, as well as using the techniques of practitioners like Artaud and Brecht. His own actor training would have included Stanislavski and the techniques used by Lecoq.