Who could benefit from this course?
This course is suitable for actors and theatremakers, especially those interested in developing their own material & solo performances and/or exploring physical, devised, and contemporary practices. It's also a great opportunity for those looking for a bit of training to dust off the cobwebs, or those in need of a little push to create material for future performances.
How does it work?
This course offers you the opportunity to enhance your craft as a performer while developing performance material - whether you have a specific idea to work on or you are looking for one. In 3 intensive days over 3 weeks, you will explore techniques including performance preparation, actor's dramaturgy, generating ideas, and composition.
After the course, you will have the (optional) opportunity to share some of your work-in-progress on The Cockpit stage as part of the Theatre Maker Showcase on 7th of April.
Participants will encounter a combination of training and creative activities and may expect to work with:
- Psychophysical preparation/practice
- Physical theatre & movement work
- Creative research, improvisation & devising (through both collective and individual work)
- Dramaturgies & composition: the space, the performer, the text, the scene
- Develop individual moments/scenes.
This course takes place in person, at The Cockpit in Studio 1 (upstairs). Only 10 places are available.
What do you gain?
- Techniques to enhance your work as an actor and increase your confidence in creating, developing, and structuring new work.
- Explore your creative interests and generate material that can be the beginning of your next show.
- Improve your dramaturgical & theatre/performance-making knowledge.
- Meet new collaborators and actors/makers who may share common creative interests.
- Present your work on The Cockpit stage (previous participants have later developed their initial ideas into full-length performances)
Dates, Times & Cost
7, 14 & 21 March, 2025 (3 consecutive Friday afternoons)
1:30pm - 5:30pm
£125 early bird (book by 17 February at 12pm)
£145 regular price
Instalment plans are available - see details on booking page.
Check out the other workshops in our Theatre Maker programme, and save 10% when you book 2 or more.
Teacher/Creator Biog
GUSTAVO DIAS-VALLEJO
Gustavo is a theatre artist (director, writer, performer, teacher & facilitator) working in the intersection of theatre, performance, and creative projects with communities. Initially trained as an anthropologist in Brazil, he started his career in the performing arts working with a street theatre company in Argentina and later, specialized his practice around physical and contemporary performance making. He relocated to the UK in 2017, where he has been collaborating across different contexts: fringe/experimental theatre, professional industry, community environments and educational institutions. He has a vast experience working with actors and students, and has worked in venues such as The Lyric Hammersmith, New Diorama Theatre, Camden People's Theatre and RADA and has taught courses & workshops in educational institutions like UAL, ArtsEd, Rose Bruford, Middlesex University, The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, Fourth Monkey and Identity School of Acting.
contact: www.gusdival.com / @gusdival
Testimonials
'I really apreciated the training part of the workshop which helped me feel more at ease and also created a fun and supportive atmoshpere within the group. We had the opportunity to develop our pieces, and I found the feedback Gustavo gave me helpful and relevant. He was very considerate and made sure we each get the assistance we need. The tools I learnt were clear and hands-on, I will be able to use them independently in my devising practice. Thank you!'
Barbara Tatai, (participant in the Actor-Creator course, June 2022)
'I really enjoyed the course, Gustavo is a fantastic teacher with a wealth of knowledge and experience. At points, my creativity was tested which isn't a bad thing but something to be prepared for.'
Zoe Maltby ((participant in the Actor-Creator course, June 2022)
'Gustavo is an exceptional devising practitioner who was able to help me develop my creative side to be even more playful and, through his expertise, create something that felt clear and free.'
Alex Bell, Actor and Acting Tutor
'Gustavo is a fun and energetic director with great vision. He is incredibly passionate and detailed, and is so open to play, and encourages his actors to have freedom, playfulness and bravery in the rehearsal room. He creates a safe and fun space for his creatives.'
Tina Baston, Actor.
'It's was a great joy to work with Gustavo. I was able to broaden my attention to the performance space and allowed myself to respond honestly to the energy all around me. This engagement helped me to focus on the connection between my body and emotions, which gave me the chance to bring that to the surface with control'
Christina Ado, Actor.
'Gustavo is a very fun and approachable facilitator. He made me feel comfortable in the space and guided me through various explorations. He is confident and playful, im sure you’ll have an awesome time working with him!'
Pepa Duarte, Actor
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