Physical Theatre: Meyerhold and Biomechanics (FutureLearn)

This short three-week course introduces you to world-renowned Russian director Meyerhold’s technique of biomechanics, inviting you to experience first-hand his revolutionary approach to acting – the biomechanical études. You will learn about the techniques and find out more about the history of physical theatre including Meyerhold’s contribution to its development and how, nearly 100 years later, his work is still influencing us today.

Through a mixture of video, animation, interviews with artists, expert panel discussions with professionals, discussion forums and practical exercises you will explore the range of key players in Russian actor training. Meyerhold’s work will be placed in context as an early collaborator with Stanislavsky and a contemporary of Michael Chekhov. You will be introduced to one of his études – a two minute repeatable exercise used to develop balance, awareness and expression. Responding to video guidance you will be invited to explore your own response to this unique approach to training and will share these with the experts and your fellow students. Together we will reflect on these responses, evaluating the importance of Meyerhold’s work today.