Exploration and Curiosity

Theatre is a constant exploration - it is not a blueprint. The idea that something can be ‘blocked’ becomes increasingly repulsive to me when I see the way in which actors are hindered by this. It is the thing that turns me off many of the big productions (eg. ‘blueprint musicals’) that are identical in all aspects, regardless of continent or culture. It is turning us into stupid creatures that  long for the spectacular and are always longing for a grander set, more spectacular costumes, rather than an examination of the human condition.
  
As an audience member I pay for that exploration, I demand exploration.
 
Exploration of the space, the voice, the body within the context of the text - and that exploration can only come from a sense and discipline of curiosity.
 
Here’s the rub: curiosity cannot be turned on and off at will. It is not something that one can simply turn up a notch at show time. It must be present with us in all aspects of training, rehearsal and - as artists - life.
It is as important to train actors to be curious in every aspect of life as it is to train them in technique. I’d go as far to say that a major part of technique IS curiosity.
 
 The beauty of encouraging and training actors to be curious is that it then perpetuates that all important exploration. It will pervade every movement, every word and breath - because here it sits naturally and at home.

4 Ways to Encourage your Curiosity:
1. During your voice and body routine, try to notice something new/different in every exercise you do.
2. When you hear a word that is unfamiliar to you, look it up and start using it!
3. Question all that you a being taught - don’t take a particular point of view for granted - explore the possibilities for yourself. Don’t think you HAVE TO reach a conclusion.
4. Vocally explore your body and space minus a sense - for example, with a blindfold on or earplugs in. Find a different sensory perspective.