ABSTRACT

Foundations for Performance Training: Skills for the Actor-Dancer explores the physical, emotional, theoretical, and practical components of performance training in order to equip readers with the tools needed to successfully advance in their development as artists and entertainers.

Each chapter provides a fresh perspective on subjects that students of acting and dance courses encounter throughout their training as performing artists. Topics include:

  • Equity, diversity, and inclusion in performance
  • Mind/body conditioning for training, rehearsal, and performance
  • Developing stage presence and spatial awareness
  • Cultivating motivation and intention in performance
  • Expanding repertoire and broadening skillset for performance
  • Auditioning for film and stage
  • Developing theatrical productions

This book also offers experiential exercises, journal writing prompts, and assignments to engage readers, enrich their learning experience, and deepen their exploration of the material described in each chapter. Readers will grow as performing artists as they analyze the principles of both acting and dance and discover how deeply the two art forms are intertwined.

An excellent resource for students of acting, musical theatre, and dance courses, Foundations for Performance Training encourages a strong foundation in creative analysis, technique, artistic expression, and self-care to cultivate excellence in performance.

chapter |15 pages

Introduction

chapter 1|20 pages

Embracing Performance & Communing with the Audience

Acting, Dance, & the Performer's Role in Society

chapter 2|27 pages

Performer Preparation

Practices from Theatre Movement for Mind/Body Connection & Free Expression

chapter 3|27 pages

Performance Building Blocks

Key Concepts in Ballet Dance Technique for Presence & Authenticity on Stage & Screen

chapter 5|24 pages

Jazz Dance & Musical Theatre

The Quintessential Combination of Acting & Dance in Performance

chapter 6|22 pages

Auditioning

From a Necessary Evil to a Time to Shine

chapter 7|24 pages

Performer & Theatre Maker

Creating New Works & Breathing New Life into Established Works

chapter 8|20 pages

On Health & Wellness

Self-Care for Longevity as a Performer

chapter |9 pages

Final Thoughts