Acting and Singing with Archetypes

Book excerpt: The Mother, the Lover, the Trickster, the Spiritual and Temporal Leader, the Devil-these are just some of the universal essences, known as archetypes, that lie deep within the human spirit; these are forces that we all recognize and embody in some capacity. Acting and Singing with Archetypes is a groundbreaking, experiential book that uses archetypes as the basis of an unprecedented method of study for actors and singers. By using fifteen archetype explorations that employ vocal exercises, mask making, monologue and scene work, breathing exercises, role playing, storytelling, singing, meditation, self-reflection, and more, this book empowers actors to interpret character and voice in exciting, untraditional ways. The explorations ultimately leave performing artists with the tools they need to develop their theatrical roles to the fullest, utilize their singing and speech abilities with the widest range of emotion, and unlock their overall creative potential. The book also reinforces the importance of breathing, relaxing, stretching, and other physical techniques that enable healthy practice of the craft. Geared toward theatre teachers, directors, and theatre workshop leaders, this is an incredible teaching tool, accompanied by a CD of demonstrative recordings of vocal exercises and other guiding content sung and spoken by authors Janet B. Rodgers and Frankie Armstrong. Book jacket.