I took part in an intensive workshop that looked at the dynamics of movement, with influence from the training of Jacques Lecoq’s theatrical principle ‘toute bouge’ (everything moves). With Clout I explored intense movement and character creation, using the elements of nature (Earth, Air, Fire and Water) to observe how they can be channelled into a performer’s physicality.

Using these elements, different materials, colours and movement, I was able to further my abilities in character development and choral work. I also greatly improved my skills in collaboration and improvisation, as we improvised multiple scenes using the physical abilities we were taught. We also looked at an Aspirin tablet dissolving in water, baking paper scrunched up and attempting to regain its shape, and the way jelly moves when disturbed. Choosing one of these objects, we sought to recreate them in an absurdist manner, utilising Lecoq principles, and devised a short piece with our small groups.

Clout Theatre are a Lecoq-trained physical theatre ensemble with members from Russia, France, Turkey and Scotland, who strive to make physically bold theatre for an international audience. Using absurd humour, violence, mess and visual poetry, the work casts an irreverent eye on the human condition in all its sublime ridiculousness. They used all of these elements utilised in their productions to help me look closely at physicality and movement, and explore how this can be effectively conveyed on stage.