Global Actor Training: Physicality, Digitality, and Sustainability in the Asian Conservatoire

This paper argues that the interconnection between physicality, digitality, and sustainability can be considered as a general parameter in the training of global actors. The argument considers this interconnection in relation to 21st-century globalization, the fourth industrial revolution, digital applications, China’s belt and road initiatives, and impending ecological crises. Specifically, the presentation explores the vision for training global actors as it is put into practice at the School of Dance and Theatre of LASALLE College of the Arts in Singapore. After providing a contextual introduction to the argument, the presentation pivots from specific examples of our approach to actor and performer training. The presentation concludes by highlighting four characteristics of a global approach to actor training: (1) the increasing need of a transcultural ethos to theatre and performance making globally; (2) the impact that the fourth industrial revolution and digital technologies will have in actor training; (3) the importance of aligning curriculum planning with ecological sustainability; and (4) the importance of reconsidering what an Asian conservatoire can be in such landscape and in relation to China’s belt and road initiatives.

Citation:
Cervera, Felipe. ''Global Actor Training: Physicality, Digitality, and Sustainability in the Asian Conservatoire.'' Proceedings of Asia Theatre Education Centre Conference, Beijing, China 05/2019, Asia Theatre Education Centre, 2020, pp. 155-177.