Voice is a physiological, active process, inseparable from the body. This concept is integral to vocal pedagogy and is the primary focus of vocal training and yet, in rehearsals processes with student actors, directors, choreographers and musical directors often treat the voice and body as separate entities.
In this thesis, I will engage with current vocal theory to explore how rehearsal processes currently reinforce the misconception that the voice and body are independent from one another. Through my research of the rehearsal processes at UC Santa Cruz, I will show that this is detrimental to the vocal efficiency of student actors.
This paper explores how the integration of physical awareness and an understanding of the physiology of vocal production can benefit student actors. Once students learn to use their voice effectively, then they can be expressive and affect audiences as they communicate ideas and emotions on stage.