I found inspiration for this blog in the interview with Josephine Kwhali who discusses ‘unconscious bias’ as part of the UCU black members’ standing committee oral history project. She argues that if, after many years of discussions, policies, strategies on the topic of race-equality, racial discrimination is still unconscious “then there is really something worrying about what it will take for the unconscious to become conscious” (2016). The question of consciousness in the art of acting is a very important notion. Being conscious is essential in actor training because it enables students to develop a strong connection with their characters and the narrative they are delivering. On stage or in front of the camera, it allows them to be more sincere, responsive, and emotionally available. It entails paying attention to one’s own thoughts, feelings, and surroundings as well as being fully present in the moment, both physically and emotionally. Actors who are conscious are better able to transmit to the audience the intents, feelings, and motives of their characters. Also, actor’s consciousness influences artistic choices, fosters empathy, and contributes positively to society as a whole. In my teaching practice, I use various techniques and exercises to help acting students develop consciousness, such as mindfulness practices, sensory awareness exercises, physical warm-ups, emotional exploration, etc. In addition to strengthening actors’ mind-body connections, these techniques enhance their listening and responding abilities, as well as cultivating a sense of complete consciousness. When students are fully present, they are given materials that explore the topic of racial and other types of discrimination in society that playwrights deal with in their works, most frequently in the form of contemporary interpretations of classical works like Toni Morrison’s adaptation of Shakespeare’s Othello (see image above). In this way, students become aware of the recurring patterns of racial, gender, socioeconomic, class, and other forms of discrimination and segregation throughout the history of western civilisation. It gives me great pleasure when I see how my students become not only skilled performers but also responsible and socially aware individuals.

2016, Witness: unconscious bias, Josephine Kwhali discusses ‘unconscious bias’. UCU black members’ standing committee oral history project: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y6XDUGPoaFw