Berkoff, Godber and Physical Theatre Techniques

By Mandy McKenna

Both Berkoff and Godber are hugely popular with young people for good reason. They are both very enjoyable to perform as they make bold physical statements which are hugely theatrical and can make young performers look very effective on stage. They are perfect for exam pieces and help gain top grades for talented students. I would always include either or both Berkoff or Godber when writing a new course as they help young people develop both physical and vocal range and increase their stage confidence.

By introducing students to expressionist techniques, we are introducing them to European theatre which helps increase an awareness of style. They are also very helpful in providing cheap solutions to difficult staging problems - such as staging a tsunami or an aeroplane taking off - and can be hugely useful to directors and devisers.

Berkoff and Godber are also very useful in helping students with their Devising Projects and can give them strong and effective frameworks by which they can create theatrical and effective statements. Through the introduction of a range of mime techniques any information or situation can be brought to life, whether it be boiling an egg or going to Hell!

Mandy is running our course on Berkoff and Godber - Physical Theatre on Saturday 10th March 2012 at Toynbee Studios, London.