The Studio’s main intention is to focus upon the expression of the human being as a source for research into the foundations of the actors’ craft. It aims to create the space and opportunity, within a laboratory model, for the concentrated development of an individual physical tongue. We will pose questions about the process of learning that affects an actor’s ability to express him/herself and to engage in self-reflection.

The aim is not to create bodies that are plastic devices in service to the storytelling of theatre, but on the contrary, to instil a practice that keeps the physical body a well-cleaned instrument, capable of complex subtle expression. By engaging the entire bodymind, the body becomes a luminous reflection of the inner thoughts and the channel for the self.

Rather than devouring new techniques or aiming for the creation of strong performative product, the Studio builds its basis upon the primal processes of the actor.

Research will not be limited solely to a closed laboratory work, but will aim to confront our activities with a series of open work presentations, seminars and annual publications. 

Notes:

The Studio will consist of six to eight members, who will be active participants of the work during a series of intense practical sessions throughout a one and a half year period, beginning in Autumn 2010 through to summer 2012.

Besides the team of practitioners, the Studio will seek for one or more scholar/academic collaborators, who would be engaged in mapping the trajectory of the work through critical analysis of its process.  Constructive dialogue and the posing of questions from a theoretical perspective will be an important tool in understanding the work. Such writings might later result in a series of annual publications.    

The Studio intends to create a documentation team, which will record and follow the process of work during the one and a half year period.

Matej Matejka (Slovakia) – Studied acting at the State Conservatory in Bratislava, Slovakia, followed by a year of musical acting at JAMU University, Brno, Czech Republic. In 2001–2006 actor of the Farm in the Cave, Theatre studio Prague and co creator of the projects and performances Dark Love Sonnets, Journey to the Station and SCLAVI / The Song of an Emigrant.

Since 2005 collaborator of The Grotowski Institute, where he is engaged in research of physical expression in the theatre. Actor and leader of physical training in Teatr ZAR theatre company. Performs in Gospels of Childhood, Cesarean Section and is currently working on Anhelli, The Calling. Leads his own work sessions “Wakening the Listening Body” at the Grotowski Institute, as well as with Teatr ZAR, both in Poland and internationally. Has collaborated with choreographer and dancer Jaro Vinarsky.