Jacques Lecoq (Routledge Performance Practitioners) by Simon Murray

by Simon Murray

This text offers a concise guide to the teaching and philosophy of one of the most significant figures in twentieth century actor training. Lecoq's influence on the theatre of the latter half of the twentieth century cannot be overestimated.This is the first book to combine an historical introduction to his life, and the context in which he worked. This includes an analysis of his teaching methods, principles of body work, movement creativity, contemporary theatre, detailed studies of the work of Theatre de Complicite, and Mummenschanz practical exercises demonstrating Lecoq's distinctive approach to actor training.

Paperback

First published September 4, 2003

About the author

Adventurer and businessman Simon Murray. As a teenager, nursing a broken heart and determined to prove himself, he joined the French Foreign Legion. Fighting in the Algerian war, he risked his life many times over; combat was at close quarters and was very bloody.

Next, he set his sights on business - he ran some of the most well-known companies in South East Asia and was one of Chris Patten's key allies during the handover of Hong Kong. Then, in his 60s and looking for a new challenge, he chanced upon the idea of polar adventure, and went on to become the oldest person to walk unsupported to the South Pole. But after all this, his greatest achievement, he says, is his marriage. Perhaps it's no surprise that his wife of 43 years, Jennifer, is the first woman to have flown a helicopter solo around the world

Reviews

[Nora · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have picked this book up now and again - a good, comprehensive overview of Lecoq, I think.