AG: Imagination is INFINITELY MORE IMPORTANT than Physical Form

My greatest realization: the importance of focusing on the image of the energy body.

When first introduced to AGs, I assumed that the greatest inspiration would come from the physical action performed when exploring/using AGs. 8 years later I finally grasp what I think is the most important way to use these tools: allowing the actor to step aside and give over to the image.

Too much focus on the physical body creates a disconnect with the imagination and can result in tension which blocks the energy pathways. Focus on the physical body means the actor is using the tool to experience rather than experiencing the effects of the tool. This is an important distinction because it completely alters the foundation of the tool and all subsequent explorations in acting. It is the difference between dictatorship and freedom.

I am now of the opinion that the mind-body connection will be most effective if the actor employs a neutral attitude toward the body's action and focuses more on the imagination. The imagination allows the actor to experience the energy body which will then inform the actor's body. Giving over to the imagination will allow the actor to experience a higher state of creativity where the analytic mind is absent and he no longer attempts to govern the actions of the body.

This realization fundamentally changes my experience of the Chekhov Technique. I think it is of paramount importance that this concept of giving over the actor body to the imagination be firmly established at the beginning of any actor training. Too long have I tried to govern the tools rather than allowing them to work for me. Yes, the tools still have power when the actor directs their use, but it is no where near the power of experiencing the tool through imagination. All you have to do is focus on the image and you will experience a level of freedom better described as Inspired Acting.

This is not to say that one should neglect the physical body. No, this is simply a shift in focus. The body will be informed by the imagination, it will continue to develop but from a creative state rather than an analytic one.