It is our priority to create a safe space to work in for those who participate in programs at KB Studio. The work is intended to be transformational for actors and we do not take this for granted. The techniques we use are powerful- connecting us to profound and vulnerable areas in ourselves. The process requires a great commitment on the actor's part and a safe environment for the actor to work in. Here are the principles we cultivate to give you permission to truly Let Go, Explore, and Grow in your Acting and your Art!
Principle 1: Healing
The process requires us to work in a personal way- to reveal intimate and vulnerable areas in ourselves that we might habitually protect. We hold this aspect of the work as a Healing Process. The ‘Self-Awareness’ that comes from this aspect of the work allows us to grow and to become more whole as human beings.
Principle 2: Setting Intention
The different techniques we study are about exploring our energy and humanity at the extremes: physically, emotionally, and psychologically. To engage in this process safely it is vital that we consciously set an intention, to remind ourselves that we are undertaking this work to become more available for our acting, to bring more of ourselves to our characters, and to touch and inspire audiences more profoundly.
Principle 3: Community
The work that we do in the studio is profoundly challenging, requiring actors to explore opening and expressing themselves in new ways. It is important to be aware, as we enter the space, that we are not in class only for ourselves but that we have a responsibility to ‘hold space’ for each other. This way we can trust that when fears and resistance come up, the other actors will be there for us as well. The quality of the community is essential for us to experience the full growth and benefits of the work.
Principle 4: Autonomy
Actors are encouraged, in each class, to work in a way that is safe and healthy for them. The Principle of Autonomy is rooted in the awareness that authentic growth comes from a willingness to participate in class from a place of trust, curiosity, and play. If participation is forced upon the actors by the teacher, or if the actors are working from a place of competitive ego, it can result in emotional and psychological tension or trauma. Instead, actors are encouraged to advocate for themselves and to practice autonomy. Which in practical terms means prioritizing your experience by listening to your body and making a conscious choice to participate in any given activity from a healthy space.
Principle 5: Mindful Communication
We strive to create an environment where each individual feels invited to communicate about their experience of the work. This includes their experience with other classmates as well as the instruction. Due to the vulnerable and personal nature of the work, it is natural for issues to arise. We want to empower those who choose to participate in this training and approach to communicate honestly, openly, and respectfully. When we practice mindful, nonjudgemental communication, it usually leads to a greater depth of connection to others as well as greater fulfillment in the class work itself.
Principle 6: The Human Space
Throughout our individual journeys, we have our good days and our bad days. In life and in the practice of our Art, we have days where we feel open and days where we feel resistant. The Artistic process is often challenging and revealing. Actors can often feel hesitant to show up to class when they are feeling overwhelmed, blocked, or not themselves. However, we encourage you to come and ‘bring it all into the room’ in a safe and healthy manner. When emotions and tensions arise, we trust that we will always return to supporting each other's growth as human beings and as artists. Just as we strive to explore all sides of humanity in our acting, both the light and the dark, we give ourselves permission to bring all sides of ourselves into the studio. We strive to create a Human Space to work in.