DRAMA 455 A: Alexander Technique

“The Alexander Technique is constructive, conscious kindness to yourself, cooperating with your design, supporting your desires and dreams.” – Madden

This class is a practical and theoretical introduction to the Alexander Technique, a psychophysical re-education process developed by F. M. Alexander (1869-1955). 

Each day, the sequential process is reinforced with information, observation of yourself and others as the class applies it to activities of daily life and/or professional life.  Frank Pierce Jones, an early researcher on the work, says the Alexander Technique "teaches you how to bring more practical intelligence into what you are already doing; how to eliminate stereotyped responses; how to deal with habit and change." Students access greater physical and vocal coordination as well as learn to "think in activity". (This course is of particular interest to students of drama, music, dance, education and psychology, and is useful to anyone who moves.)

Cathy's approach is playful and practical. Experienced teachers and advanced students who have studied with her assist her in the class. In class work will be tailored to the needs of the class members.  The text for the course is her book, Integrated Alexander Technique Practice for Performing Artists: Onstage Synergy.

This summer's class is being taught in the intensive format that Madden teaches at Alexander Technique training schools around the world. The class meets daily from 6:30-9:30pm, June 18-22, 2018