In Singapore, we are often given the ‘right’ answers to follow. Even though we are each unique and different individuals, there seems to be a ‘model’ version of success for us, and we are taught to move and live according to the choreography stipulated by the higher-ups. Given the rigid structures, what can we do for ourselves to find our own answers to life?

This training is suitable for non-performers/non-athletes, while experienced performers and athletes can look forward to a time of breaking habits, of increasing awareness and sensitivity, and of creating something personal and unique with their bodies. How can you provide a personalised version of a stipulated choreography or of a scripted/directed line?

To put it simply, in Split Theatre’s Work On The Self programme, we use Grotowski-inspired actor training activities to help participants gain more awareness of and control over their selves. For us, we refer to the “self” as a combination of the mind (memory and imagination) and the body. The habitual way of moving in our society (sitting or standing for long hours) may result in us using less and less of our bodies. The habitual way of being in our society (putting on a front/fulfilling a role at school/work or in life) may result in us losing touch with who we truly are inside.

Part I

We first explore what our bodies can do. That is why we feel good after a fun workout or a yoga session. We uncover and create possibilities for our own bodies, so that we begin to feel like we can progress. We can move forward. We can gain skills, and we can do something different. We can accomplish something of our own. We engage our imagination too, so that we increase the possibilities that we have for our bodies. Imagine running a race with a stadium full of people cheering for you – the emotions stirred up within you can cause an adrenaline rush that pushes you beyond what your body can normally do. That’s the power of your imagination. Physically strenuous activities are therefore a part of this programme to help build strength, endurance, and self-awareness.

That’s part one of the programme. Participants will find possibilities for their minds and bodies. Reflections and group discussions will take place to encourage participants to think more reflexively about their bodies, their thoughts/opinions, their beliefs, and their knowledge of their self/others. You’ll become more aware of your self and you’ll grow to be attentive to yourself and others. Listen to your body – it speaks clearly when you really listen.

Part II

For Part II of the programme, you’ll begin exploring the various memories that your body can hold – we call these our body-memories. Because we have very personalised experiences, our bodies work differently, and we create unique experiences for ourselves and for others – we have very personalised rhythms. That is why we feel uneasy moving and living according to the choreography stipulated by others. How can we learn to move, think, and remember in a very personal way? How can we craft our own answers within rigid structures in life? How can we work on our selves while caring for and relating to others?

The programme runs every Monday or Saturday.

Mondays – 7.00pm-10.00pm

Part 1: Building Strength, Endurance, and Awareness through Physical Theatre Activities (5 weeks x 3 hours) –  30th January, 6th February, 13th February, 20th February, 27th February

Part 2: Uncovering your Personal Rhythms and Body-Memories (5 weeks x 3 hours) – 6th March, 13th March, 20th March, 27th March, 3rd April 2023

Venue for Mondays: 169 JOO CHIAT ROAD, #02-01, SINGAPORE 427729

Saturdays – 7.00pm-10.00pm

Part 1: Building Strength, Endurance, and Awareness through Physical Theatre Activities (5 weeks x 3 hours) – 4th February, 11th February, 18th February, 25th February, 4th March 2023 Part 2: Uncovering your Personal Rhythms and Body-Memories (5 weeks x 3 hours) – 11th March, 18th March, 25th March, 1st April, 8th April 2023

Venue for Saturdays: Sigma Collective Space