This panel explores relationships between meditation, Buddhism, and psychophysical actor training. Despite the flourishing of research into the effects of meditation in health, education, and other contexts, there have to date been few reports on the contribution of meditation to the performing arts, and even less attention paid to the ways in which acting and actor training can contribute to a broad understanding of the nature and role of contemplative modalities. This international panel comprises artists and academics whose research and practice explore the dialogue between the insights and techniques of the Buddhist meditation tradition and the embodied psychophysical experiences of the actor. We will discuss the potentials for contemplative performance to embody, and engage audiences in, experiences of mindful awareness. The session will include short practical demonstrations and the opportunity for discussion.
