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Writer's picturerichard weingartner

The Classroom

Updated: Dec 7, 2021

The obvious choice is to get rid of the chairs and desks, to create an empty space. Empty enough to find,use and discover the famous six areas of space. Front,back, side the other side,up -down. Not only are these places, but they are also destinations, positions and images. They are part of a catalog of ideas and physical states that my awareness must behold and hold fast.


The performance space is a mystical place. A sacred space.


The voices of the past resonate in the walls, in the chambers, above the rafters, below the stage to the basement, to the earth Herself. Stage right lives in the chaotic possession of the actors as does stage left; whole lot better if you breathe.


The only way to get someone out there is to be out there yourself. Teacher-guide, instigator, coaxer, fool. The limb of the tree is the tree. I keep saying this to myself as if I know what I’m saying. Whispering, the limb of the tree is the tree, as if I can’t remember my next line. Every day, sometimes all day, sometimes out of the blue, sometimes the limb bounces beneath me, swaying, daring me, me daring back. Ready or not, your students walk into your classroom.


Some have walked these limbs before. Others are less sure of the journey. The ensemble begins taking shape. The newcomer is the most important part of this idea in class or production. They carry possibility in their backpacks. Eyeing you with well-earned suspicion. Here is the trust and confidence and practice and here are your partners, your fellows,urging each other higher -showing you the way down from these limbs,that too is a craft. Skills needed: strong able hands, feet and arms, courage and patience. Now, climbing down, the actor learns balance, pacing, discovers dexterity and defies gravity. The actor is on the brink of the next second. And you the teacher you are only one second ahead.








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