Date on Master's Thesis/Doctoral Dissertation
5-2019
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Degree Name
M.F.A.
Department
Theatre Arts
Degree Program
Theatre Arts, MFA
Committee Chair
Calvano, J. Ariadne
Committee Co-Chair (if applicable)
Kelly, Baron
Committee Member
Kelly, Baron
Committee Member
Chandler, Karen
Author's Keywords
music and movement; character development; the actor's process; theatre arts; theatre pedagogy
Abstract
This thesis is a conversational document that will examine the manifestation of the auditory(hearing) and motor(physical motion) cortex of the cerebrum and how this connection influences character physicality in theatre. In this thesis, The Mountaintop, written by Katori Hall, is used as a gateway to conduct research on music and rhythm as it affects the body and creating physical character choices. By reflecting on personal musical exploration,that of my peers, and students, its concluded that this method can be used for all stages of character building and performance experiences. The various backgrounds of the subjects — students and peers — confirmed the findings with traditional and nontraditional creative minds, with each participant physically responding to various rhythms and music.This exploration was performed on a spectrum from a general lens to a focused nuanced perspective for specific characters by seasoned performers.
Recommended Citation
Hood, Lashondra Cherell, "The actor’s rhythm, internal beat." (2019). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 3180.
https://doi.org/10.18297/etd/3180
