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Physical theatre
All live theatre is physical in some way but theatre which accentuates image and the
physicality of the performer can create a vibrant and exciting style. While physical
theatre can be seen as an art form in its own right, the skills developed through its study
can enhance and enrich the skills and range of all performers. Physical theatre is a
flexible term that usually describes theatre pieces that explore and highlight physical
aspects of performance.
The term may be applied to a variety of different performance styles and forms, it is
often used to refer to performances that are based on some kind of extensive and
rigorous physical training. These kinds of performing arts associated with this concept can include:

dance-theatre
stage combat
comedia dell'arte
melodrama

acrobatics
mask work
clowning

circus
buffoons
mime

Greek tragedy

While these more established performance styles and genres are often associated with the creation of physical
theatre, it is also important to remember that this term is sometimes used to refer to the use of the physical body
as a form, canvas or site that artists use to inscribe or express the creative and conceptual images associated
with body art and performance art.
The ability to create a sense of place and action without the necessity of settings, props and costume promotes a
form where the actor is the centre of all stage effects. While setting, costume, props, lighting and all the other
supportive elements that contribute to the concept of theatre have
their undeniable uses, without the performer there can be no
theatre. Of course, the human body has always been a
fundamental element of theatrical presentations and one should
not forget that physical expression has been a part of
performances ever since theatre first began to be performed.
WHY STUDY PHYSICAL THEATRE?
Physical theatre is a unique dramatic form in which the
performers focus upon the movement of their bodies to create
meaning. Physical theatre is often visually powerful, and may rely upon the power of symbolism to achieve a
dramatic effect. By exploring and discussing physical theatre you will appreciate and understand the ways in
which this dramatic form can create powerful and engaging theatre.
SKILLS AND TECHNIQUES ASSOCIATED WITH PHYSICAL THEATRE
Physical: muscle strength; physical control; balance; breathing; lifting and catching; taking and placing
weight; use of levels and height; stamina
Vocal: breath control; projection; vocal range; creating and physicalizing sound; use of vocal dynamics
Acting: character; rhythm; dynamics; tableaux; interaction; physical comedy; mime; spontaneity;
improvisation; spatial awareness; timing; style
Physical ensemble: trust; teamwork; cooperation; use of contact improvisation; lifting and catching;
interaction
Dynamic quality: speed; flow; direction; use of contrasts; emotional quality; sense of performance
Source: http://dlibrary.acu.edu.au/staffhome/siryan/academy/theatres/..%5Ctheatres%5Cphysical%20theatre.htm