Work in Progress and Creativity in Performance The Actor’s Training in 17^th- and 18^th-Century Theories

This article examines the relationship between creation and training. Exercise was at the heart of the creative process and body eloquence in the classical age as the actor-orator had to be in good shape. However, in the Age of Enlightenment, new notions were discussed, such as mental capacities and creative acting in performance. These notions have called into question the need for the actor to practice before going on stage.