The Psychology of Performance
THESE PRESENTATIONS HAVE TAKEN PLACE
10th/17th/24th March 2009, Gresham College, Holborn, London
Theatre and Human Expression
What benefits do we derive from theatre (including film and TV)? It is excitement, vicarious experience, education, catharsis, or all of these things? Does our enjoyment depend upon the ability of the playwright to parade problems in a way that connects with our own? What do the archetypal themes emerging through great drama tell us about nature? Can we be harmed (e.g. depraved and corrupted) by theatre? If so, under what conditions?
The Power of Music
How does music exert such extraordinary effects on our emotions? To what extent does it depend upon our nature (biological rhythms, instinctive reactions to certain sound patterns) and to what extent experience (e.g. conditioned associations, nostalgia)? Particular attention is given to the tension-reduction and optimal uncertainty theories of musical enjoyment. We will also consider whether there is any truth in the claim that listening to music can increase intelligence in the listener (the so-called 'Mozart Effect').
Stage Fright and Optimal Performance
This talk gives an overview of the causes and cures of performance anxiety. Under what circumstances is it most likely to occur? When is emotional arousal beneficial to performance and when destructive? The pros and cons of various approaches to treatment of stagefright (beta-blockers, cognitive behaviour therapy, Alexander Technique, hypnosis, etc). Techniques for enhancing ('hyping up') performance, such as imagery and self-talk.
Please note: these are not STR-organised events.
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13th September 2008 |
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