Ray Yang

Ray Yang is an international teaching artist for acting and voice. He is an MA candidate in Performance Studies at Tisch. He holds another MA in Physical Acting at the University of Kent (U.K.). Currently, He is pursuing teacher training at Michael Chekhov International Academy Berlin (MCIA) and is a member of the Michael Chekhov Association New York (MICHA).

Title of Project:

Embodiment of Instinct Love - A Conversation with Dawn Arnold for Self-Learning Reflection on Michael Chekhov Technique

Project Description:

This project explores Michael Chekhov’s acting technique and its application in contemporary theatre, providing a historical overview and personal reflection on its significance. Chekhov, a student of Stanislavsky and nephew of playwright Anton Chekhov, developed an innovative approach integrating the methods of Stanislavsky, Meyerhold, and Rudolf Steiner. His technique emphasizes the importance of genuine emotional experience, particularly love, in acting. Chekhov’s distinction between intellectual and real feelings of love is discussed, highlighting the necessity for actors to embody emotions physically rather than relying solely on intellectual understanding. The article also features insights from Dawn Arnold, a leading practitioner of Chekhov’s technique, and recounts a personal experience with the psychological gesture exercise, demonstrating the profound impact of physical practice on emotional expression. The concept of atmosphere and its influence on the actor’s body and performance is examined, underscoring the interplay between internal sensations and external environment in achieving authentic emotional portrayal on stage.

Areas of Academic Interest/Research:

His research interests are around Michael Chekhov's Archetype connected to Goethe's Archetype and also Michael Chekhov's technique connected to Psychotherapy. Also, Linklater Voice Studies, Body Movements, and Body Politics.