‘Core Training is based on a profound, active awareness of the body, other performers and the space. This can lead to a powerful, almost luminous presence in live performance.
I call this state of being fully attuned to the physical, imaginative and external environment polyphonic attention. It gives the actor tremendous freedom through which to explore their craft.’
Ali Hodge
Core Training encourages a deep awareness of interrelationships experienced through the body with other actors, audience and the immediate space. There are four key themes that guide the work: ground and weight, breathing and breath, working with things, and working with others. It has a unique focus on the breath, the inter-dependence of performers, and the development of precise, emotionally powerful ensemble work.
It was also part of Ali’s overall approach to the importance of positive personal growth and physical expression – particularly for women.
Core Training has been taught in leading drama schools in the UK and internationally.
For an example of the training: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGAnQK3SQ-0
For further examples, and excerpts from a performance of House of Bernarda Alba, please see the Books, DVDs and Resources page.
Other examples (of Caretaking, Supported Flying and Core Training) are held within the Routledge Performance Archive: https://www.routledgeperformancearchive.com/
Its principles and application are described in the book Core Training for the Relational Actor (Routledge 2013): https://www.routledge.com/