Jerzy Marian Grotowski (1933–99) was a Polish theatre director and theorist, considered one of the most influential figures in 20th-century experimental theatre. His innovative approaches reshaped performance, emphasizing an actor’s physical and emotional expression over elaborate staging.
Born in Rzeszów, Poland, Grotowski studied at the Ludwik Solski Academy for the Dramatic Arts in Kraków and later at the Russian Academy of Theatre Arts in Moscow. In 1959, he founded the Laboratory Theatre in Opole, Poland, developing his “Poor Theatre” concept, stripping away theatrical excess to focus on the actor’s craft. He immigrated to the U.S. in 1982, teaching and directing before settling in Italy, where he founded the Workcenter of Jerzy Grotowski (1985.) His later research, “Art as Vehicle,” explored theatre as a spiritual practice.
His seminal work, Towards a Poor Theatre (1968,) influenced avant-garde movements worldwide. His productions, including Faustus (1963,) Hamlet (1964,) and The Constant Prince (1965,) showcased his rigorous actor training methods. He later explored ritualistic theatre in Undertaking Mountain (1977) and Undertaking Earth (1977–78.)
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Intimate or drastic elements in the work of others are untouchable and should not be commented upon even in their absence. Private conflicts, quarrels, sentiments, animosities are unavoidable in any human group. It is our duty towards creation to keep these in check in so far as they might deform and wreck the work process.
—Jerzy Grotowski
Topics: Work
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