Radiation and the Transmission of Energy: From Stanislavsky to Michael Chekhov

White, R (author)
(editor)
(translator)

Performance and Spirituality

2157-4049

1

1

2009

In Copyright

An actor’s ability to "radiate," during performance, that which cannot be conveyed through the spoken word is a prominent element of Michael Chekhov’s technique. This article argues that, although Chekhov clearly developed unique theories about actor "radiation," his foundational ideas about the process can be traced to his mentor, Konstantin Stanislavsky. Of particular significance is Chekhov’s work in the First Studio of the Moscow Art Theatre—the community in which he received his formative training as an actor. Through examining: 1) the points of contact in Stanislavsky’s System and Michael Chekhov’s technique regarding radiation; 2) the extent to which Chekhov borrows from Stanislavsky to formulate his own teachings about actor radiation; and 3) what Stanislavsky and Chekhov mean by "radiation," this article attempts to clarify an otherwise vague concept in both approaches to acting, and to bring Stanislavsky and Chekhov into greater alignment.