Somatic Theatre Praxis and the neo-director: Integrating Somatic Movement Education, Laban Movement Studies and directorial practice

Abstract

This practice-led research investigated the integration of Somatic Movement Education (SME), Laban Movement Studies (LMS) and directing. The exegesis contextualises the research within the history of theatre and Somatics. It analyses and reflects on the practice-led process of directing a theatrical adaptation of Charlotte Perkins Gilman's The Yellow Wallpaper. My research has demonstrated that my practice was extended and supported by SME and LMS and became neo-directorial, creating a hybrid theatre form: Somatic Theatre Praxis.