Self-revelatory performance, a form of drama therapy and theatre, involves the creation of an ori... more Self-revelatory performance, a form of drama therapy and theatre, involves the creation of an original theatrical piece based on current personal issues in need of investigation, healing or transformation. This chapter extends previous published work by examining the process leading up to the performance of a Self-Rev, including intensive self-exploration and creative collaboration between performer and director. As the Self-Rev journey culminates in a live performance, the chapter analyzes the interaction with an audience, along with the role the audience plays in such intimate theatrical productions. Finally, the author addresses the potential pitfall in Self-Rev of self-indulgence, and also articulates the ways in which the personal translates into the universal, and sociocultural dimensions intersect with the personal.
Abstract 1. Outlines 4 developmental stages of training in drama therapy (DT), exemplified by cou... more Abstract 1. Outlines 4 developmental stages of training in drama therapy (DT), exemplified by courses in DT process and technique, DT theory, DT practice, and casework in DT/Internship Supervision. The author suggests that dramatic enactment can deepen ...
Self-Revelatory performance is defined as a form in which a performer originates a theatre piece ... more Self-Revelatory performance is defined as a form in which a performer originates a theatre piece drawn from current life issues in need of healing. The author articulates the similarities and differences between ‘Self-Rev’ and autobiographical theatre as well as other related forms, and describes drama therapeutic methods of grappling with personal struggles, all the while focusing on creating a work of art worthy of presentation before an audience. The contention that Self-Rev is both a form of drama therapy – offering healing and transformation, and a unique genre of theatre – with elements that lend themselves toward compelling and poignant performance – is explicated.
Self-revelatory performance, a form of drama therapy and theatre, involves the creation of an ori... more Self-revelatory performance, a form of drama therapy and theatre, involves the creation of an original theatrical piece based on current personal issues in need of investigation, healing or transformation. This chapter extends previous published work by examining the process leading up to the performance of a Self-Rev, including intensive self-exploration and creative collaboration between performer and director. As the Self-Rev journey culminates in a live performance, the chapter analyzes the interaction with an audience, along with the role the audience plays in such intimate theatrical productions. Finally, the author addresses the potential pitfall in Self-Rev of self-indulgence, and also articulates the ways in which the personal translates into the universal, and sociocultural dimensions intersect with the personal.
Abstract 1. Outlines 4 developmental stages of training in drama therapy (DT), exemplified by cou... more Abstract 1. Outlines 4 developmental stages of training in drama therapy (DT), exemplified by courses in DT process and technique, DT theory, DT practice, and casework in DT/Internship Supervision. The author suggests that dramatic enactment can deepen ...
Self-Revelatory performance is defined as a form in which a performer originates a theatre piece ... more Self-Revelatory performance is defined as a form in which a performer originates a theatre piece drawn from current life issues in need of healing. The author articulates the similarities and differences between ‘Self-Rev’ and autobiographical theatre as well as other related forms, and describes drama therapeutic methods of grappling with personal struggles, all the while focusing on creating a work of art worthy of presentation before an audience. The contention that Self-Rev is both a form of drama therapy – offering healing and transformation, and a unique genre of theatre – with elements that lend themselves toward compelling and poignant performance – is explicated.
Current Approaches in Drama Therapy, Third Edition, 2021
The Integrative Five Phase Model of drama therapy emphasizes emotion, relationship, and perspecti... more The Integrative Five Phase Model of drama therapy emphasizes emotion, relationship, and perspective. It is a developmentally-based model, in which interactive play heightens engagement, and an aesthetic awareness enhances therapeutic depth. Inherent in the Integrative Five Phase model (IFPM) is the belief that there are many essential properties and potentialities within the realm of theatre as therapy-none of which need to be excluded: "1) the healthful if not essential value of play; 2) the liberation afforded by acting; 3) the need for a laboratory space to rehearse, review, preview, and experiment with real life; 4) the emotionally- and somatically-based opportunity to dramatically revisit, grapple with, and heal deep-seated wounding; and 5) the containing, transcendent, and integrative power of dramatic ritual" (Emunah, 2020, p. 3). The Integrative Five Phase model utilizes these properties naturally, rather than as an assortment, so that each facet is brought to the fore fully, skillfully and ethically.
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It is a developmentally-based model, in which interactive play heightens engagement, and an aesthetic awareness enhances therapeutic depth. Inherent in the Integrative Five Phase model (IFPM) is the belief that there are many essential properties and potentialities within the realm of theatre as therapy-none of which need to be excluded: "1) the healthful if not essential value of play; 2) the liberation afforded by acting; 3) the need for a laboratory space to rehearse, review, preview, and experiment with real life; 4) the emotionally- and somatically-based opportunity to dramatically revisit, grapple with, and heal deep-seated wounding; and 5) the containing, transcendent, and integrative power of dramatic ritual" (Emunah, 2020, p. 3). The Integrative Five Phase model utilizes these properties naturally, rather than as an assortment, so that each facet is brought to the fore fully, skillfully and ethically.