quarta-feira, 27 de novembro de 2024

Total Theater: The ThM-Theater Movement Methodology

 

Antônio Carlos dos Santos, a prominent figure in the Brazilian theater scene, was born in 1956 in Goiânia.

From a young age, he showed great interest in the arts, especially theater. A writer, engineer and planner, throughout his career he stood out as a teacher, actor, director and theater educator. With decades of experience and a deep knowledge of the performing arts, Antônio Carlos developed methodologies for planning (Quasar K+), literary writing (Moving Letters), puppet theater and theatrical exercise, the "ThM-Theater Movement".

Antônio Carlos dos Santos's career in theater began in the 1970s, when he participated in and structured several experimental theater groups. His work has always been characterized by the search for integration between body and mind in the actor's creative process. He believes that theater should not only be an art of words, but also of movement and body expression. With this vision, he began to formulate a methodology that would unite these elements in an organic and effective way.

The ThM-Theater Movement methodology, created by Santos, is a holistic approach to theater. It emphasizes the importance of movement as a central element of acting, not just as a complement to speech. Through specific exercises, actors are trained to explore the expressive potential of their bodies, developing greater body awareness and a deeper connection with their emotions and intentions.

One of the fundamental principles of the ThM-Theater Movement is the idea that the body is a narrative instrument as powerful as the voice. For Antônio Carlos, each gesture, posture and movement can convey complex meanings and emotions, often in a more immediate and impactful way than words. Therefore, the methodology includes exercises that encourage actors to explore different forms of movement, from the most subtle to the most expansive, and to understand how these movements can influence the audience's perception.

As a complement, it presents the framework of critical-analytical training, where the actor is led to consider the different contents that a word can assume in literary construction and theatrical expression.

The exercises of ThM-Theater Movement are varied and cover several dimensions of both intellectual and physical work. One of the basic exercises is the "Nuclear Movement", which involves the execution of simple and natural movements, allowing actors to focus on the quality and intention of each gesture. Another exercise, called "Atomic Current", works with the modulation of energy and rhythm, helping actors develop greater fluidity and control over their movements.

In addition to physical exercises, Antônio Carlos' methodology also incorporates elements of improvisation and play. The "Game of Life" is a practice that stimulates the creativity and spontaneity of actors, challenging them to respond to unexpected stimuli and to collaborate with their scene partners in an intuitive way. This playful aspect is fundamental to the methodology, as it promotes an environment of experimentation and discovery, where actors can explore new possibilities of expression without fear of making mistakes.

The ThM-Theater Movement also emphasizes the importance of breathing as a bridge between body and mind. Breathing exercises are used to help actors relax, concentrate and connect with their emotions. Conscious breathing is seen as a powerful tool for regulating energy and stage presence, allowing actors to remain centered and present on stage.

Another central aspect of the methodology is group work. Santos believes that theatre is, by nature, a collaborative art and that collective work is essential to the development of a cohesive and impactful performance. Group exercises, such as “Collective Movement”, encourage actors to synchronize their movements and develop a mutual sensitivity, creating a strong and harmonious group dynamic.

The ThM-Theater Movement methodology is not limited to training professional actors. Antônio Carlos has also applied his approach to educational, workplace and community settings, believing that theatre can be a powerful tool for personal, social and professional development. Workshops and courses based on the methodology are offered in schools, universities, community centres and companies, benefiting people and workers of all ages and backgrounds.

Antônio Carlos dos Santos continues to be an influential figure in Brazilian theatre, and his ThM-Theater Movement methodology is widely respected and practiced. His work reflects a tireless dedication to the art of theatre and a deep belief in the transformative power of movement and bodily expression. Through his methodologies and books, Santos leaves lasting legacies that inspire and empower actors, theater educators, readers, and workers everywhere.

Access Antônio Carlos dos Santos' books on Amazon.

Click here.

https://www.amazon.com/author/antoniosantos 

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