Theatre Lab West

         I believe that a good curriculum incorporates both the technical study and physical tools to combine the heart, mind and body of a realistic character based in humanity rather than projection. I first heard the phrase “heart, body and mind connection” from Jon Jory - a professor, mentor and friend of mine. He used the phrase in a meeting to describe the three vital components of acting work and performance. The simplicity of the three words struck me as did the image which comes to mind, that of an equilateral triangle. The triangle provides a bare bones check list during the rehearsal process of character development. Each point of the triangle is representative of one concept: the heart includes emotions, how we feel; the body includes physicality, how we move; and the mind includes how we think, react and respond.

         These are the three major components of a real human being. Although seemingly simple, I use this approach as both an actor and teacher. In my teaching, it aides me to observe the specific learning styles of my students. I watch my students to understand their “in.” The initial “in” to understanding the character, I find, exists under the wide spectrum and concept of the mind, body and heart connection.

        To begin in one place for some students, such as the mind, then unlocks the other two: heart and body and vice versa. If a student is primarily cerebral and analytical then that is the natural approach they will use when doing character work. To focus on what is an initial strength promotes a consistent work ethic and knowledge of themselves and their craft. It also gives my students the courage and confidence to work from a different perspective, one that is outside of their comfort zone, in order to create and develop an intricate character.