An exploration into the role of fitness in physical theatre actor training

Stemming from a personal interest in fitness, this thesis examines the role fitness plays
within physical theatre and relative actor training routes.
A number of case studies are used including the work of Jacques Lecoq and Frantic Assembly, as well as other central figures in physical theatre and actor training. From these case studies the thesis draws out key principles of physical theatres and looks to identify to what extent fitness can enhance or limit these principles. Other benefits and limitations are considered that have relevance to wider the context of theatre and actor training.
The case studies also accompany some independent practical work that ran alongside the written research. This was an eight-month program working with four actors to implement fitness exercises in a practical actor-training/rehearsal process. The actors’ comments are used to give insight to the difference that fitness made to their development.