Self-Less Language: The Bral Acting Method Leading to the Act of Speech

ABSTRACT

My Practice as Research (PaR) thesis, Self-Less Language. The Bral Acting Method Leading to the Act of Speech, examines the relationship between creative writing and the Bral Acting Method (BAM) training. In my research I draw extensively from my vocal and physical experience with Song of The Goat Theatre training, which I have explored since 2013. I also refer to my collaboration with Polish company Song of The Goat Theatre as a dramaturg/playwright since 2016.

Stemming from the practice of BAM, the thesis explores the notion of Self-Less Language by focusing on the role of reciprocity between partners/creators. The BAM encompasses working simultaneously with and on all of the creative tools, such as the imagination, the voice, the body and the text. In my thesis, I argue that BAM, as an idiosyncratic actor training, expands the artists' creative potential in its psychophysical aspect, together with extended voice use abilities and imaginative skills. In my opinion, all of the above directly impact creative writing.

In parallel to the practical aspect of my thesis, I have reflected on historical and theoretical influences on the Song of the Goat Theatre's practice. I place it in a context related to theatre practitioners such as Constantin Stanislavski, Vsevolod Meyerhold, Jerzy Grotowski, and Włodzimierz Staniewski (Gardzienice). I also refer to some principles drawn from Tibetan Buddhism and notions from current scientific discoveries. The thesis introduces some aspects of those phenomena that have been considered to further my understanding and description of BAM and Self-Less Language.

By weaving together the theoretical aspect and practical experience, I endeavour to create a picture of Self-Less Language as one possible way to activate the potential of creative writing. I support the analysis of my artistic process with examples drawn from my own creative writing and selected short film recordings in appendices.