Beyond the stomp: the Nobbs Suzuki Praxis as an Australian variant of the Suzuki method of actor training

Article


Diedrich, A. and Barbe, F. 2023. Beyond the stomp: the Nobbs Suzuki Praxis as an Australian variant of the Suzuki method of actor training. Theatre, Dance and Performance Training. https://doi.org/10.1080/19443927.2022.2152860
TypeArticle
TitleBeyond the stomp: the Nobbs Suzuki Praxis as an Australian variant of the Suzuki method of actor training
AuthorsDiedrich, A. and Barbe, F.
Abstract

This article provides a brief overview of the Nobbs Suzuki Praxis (NSP), an Australian variant of the Suzuki Method of Actor Training (SMAT) developed by John Nobbs in collaboration with Jacqui Carroll from the mid-1990s onwards. After a brief introduction to SMAT and the context in which NSP evolved from it, the article outlines NSP’s key differences in exercise practice and design, particularly in the use of signature physical and vocal tools, and the increased use of structured improvisation within NSP formats. It goes on to examine two concepts specific to NSP—‘feeling’ and ‘opposites and paradox’—and outlines how these enable advanced engagement with the training, especially the cultivation of a heightened awareness of self and the performance environment. The article concludes (with reference to Crothers [2021]) by suggesting that NSP adds softness to and is a more playful version of SMAT. By providing room for invention and creativity, NSP embeds creative application of SMAT’s principles within the training itself, rather than seeing it as part of a separate rehearsal process.

KeywordsNobbs Suzuki Praxis; Suzuki Method of Actor Training ; intercultural performer training; actor training
Sustainable Development Goals4 Quality education
Middlesex University ThemeCreativity, Culture & Enterprise
Research GroupTheatre Arts group
PublisherRoutledge
JournalTheatre, Dance and Performance Training
ISSN1944-3927
Electronic1944-3919
Publication dates
Online27 Jan 2023
Publication process dates
Deposited19 Dec 2022
Accepted22 Nov 2022
Publisher's version
License
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1080/19443927.2022.2152860
Web of Science identifierWOS:000923117600001
LanguageEnglish
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