Movement for dancers and actors: The implications of modern dance for actor training

Movement is an essential element to the craft of acting, and modern dance training has crucial implications for actor training. Actors often study modern dance. However, the connections between movement and acting, which go beyond a technique class, are not usually demonstrated and implemented in these classes. This study discusses four movement-based theories of acting training: The Alexander Technique, Rudolf Laban's Effort-Shape Theory, Etienne Decroux's Corporeal Mime, and Constantin Stanislavski's Method of Physical Action. Each theory is defined, explained, and analyzed in terms of the implications for actors as well as dancers. By integrating the elements of modern dance training with the four established theories, the result is a more effective way of enabling actors to move on stage and develop their characters. The thesis concludes with examples and exercises for incorporating movement training into the acting process.