Mastering Angika Abhinaya: somatic actor training with Seraikella Chhau

Abstract

Various Asian somatic practices, such as Kalarippayattu, Thangta, Kathakali, Koodiyattam, Noh, Butoh, Taijiquan, and Yoga, have been utilised for pre-expressive actor training. The article contends that Chhau movement training, commonly practised in many Indian actor training institutes, can enhance Angika Abhinaya (externalising internal emotions and thoughts through the body) and produce similar outcomes to the pre-expressive actor training that Philip Zarrilli and Eugenio Barba describe. The Chhau movement training has the potential to be explored further as a means of somatic actor training. The article examines the Chhau movement training approaches employed by two veteran Seraikella Chhau trainers. The effectiveness of the training is evaluated through case studies, and primary data is gathered from participant observations, group discussions, and personal interviews. The results indicate that the training is highly effective in enhancing physical conditioning, body language, and expression of inner reality, improving Angika Abhinaya. The Chhau training enhances the participants’ ability to express emotions effectively through movement, enriching their performances.