Berkoff: An exploration of the practitioner, Total Theatre and his text

This scheme uses several of Berkoff’s texts and adaptations to explore his technique and Total Theatre. This would fulfil many different A-level specifications (both current and forthcoming) that require the exploration of a practitioner. Several of his texts and monologues are used within the scheme, which could also be of benefit to students who would enjoy and do well in physical and non-naturalistic roles for exam purposes.

Learning objectives
By the end of this scheme all students will:

• Have developed their understanding of what Total Theatre is
• Have developed their ability to work physically in drama
• Have developed their understanding of theatre practitioner Steven Berkoff, his style and works
• Have developed their ability to use text alongside physical theatre
• Have developed their mime, chorus/ensemble skills.

By the end of this scheme some students will:

• Have developed their characterisation in performance skills.

Number of lessons: 8