Published by Bloomsbury
Niki Flacks is described as a director, actor, teacher and psychologist. The most pertinent role, it turns out, is the latter; for to be able to do any of the three requires knowledge of self and the human condition.
A regular tutor at the Actors’ Centre, the testimonials speak warmly of her skill to change lives; this comes down to re-learning, reversing the control learned in childhood, freeing emotions and fighting intellect. This last point is critical.
Many actors rely on an intellectual memory; using thought to remember lines and cues on stage. This brings tension to the body – and in an interesting first chapter, Flacks runs through parts of the body outlining how tension manifests itself – all mechanical reactions to prevent freedom of expression: the absolute opposite of what is required to give an authentic performance. She seeks to release the unconscious mind – locked in her ‘dungeon’ – a handy visual key for the reader.
For Flacks, life begins with the words of course and she gives some great tips for effective memorisation skills; here is the key to acting with passion: she advises speaking out loud, allowing the words to be proclaimed in several ways to explore the meaning.
The central tenet is ‘self-tuning’ – reconnecting with the body – or more likely, connecting with the body to understand what it feels like. Really comprehensive exercises – with an online audio guide that require repetition will help all serious actors.
Flacks makes a good point: ‘you wouldn’t expect to go from lifting one kilo weights to 15 after a couple of days, over time you will build incredibly strong neuromuscular connections.’
It sounds scientific, because it is. But Flacks’ engaging written style ensures the science bit is more than accessible. Handy.
Review by Allison Johnstone