Building bodies for performance : investigating training processes in theatre and bodybuilding

Abstract

This dissertation surveys the relationship between theatre performance and bodybuilding through an examination of the similarities and differences in their training approaches. The subject of this study addresses training experiences leading to stage performance where the concept of mind and body features throughout the discussion. The research starts with a close examination of psychophysicality and priming as important features in both actor and bodybuilding training. By doing so, the discussion sets the course for an analysis of the liminal areas between a discipline belonging to the performing arts and another pertaining to sports. The aim of the study is to interrogate overlaps and contrasts between the two disciplines. Accordingly, this study investigates the psychophysical qualities present in Konstantin Stanislavsky’s training approach known as the ‘system’ in comparison with the more or less similar experiences undergone by bodybuilding athletes. For the latter, this study presents Arnold Schwarzenegger as Stanislavsky’s counterpart in the investigation for the importance of mind–body unison within a performative context. In this view, by bringing closer Stanislavsky and Schwarzenegger via their respective methods of training, the dissertation seeks to create a link between the two thus underlining the importance of having art and sport informing each other in both theoretical and practical contexts. This hypothesis is supported by references to various instances in actor and bodybuilding training.