After doing floorwork to focus on breathing and playing on a virtual vocal playground (everything from a piano to the curtains were used to experiment with vocalizations) we spent some time exploring the concept of Sats.
Sats, developed by Eugenio Barba, is eloquently described like so in his book The Paper Canoe: the energy can be suspended.
It is the moment just before you are compelled to move, to speak or to act. A useful example is found in the Viewpoints book where they talk about an archer pulling back her bow; the milisecond before the arrow is let go - that is Sats.
Another useful piece of information from Barba:
The Greek word enirgbeia means just that: to be ready for action, on the verge of producing work.I like that phrase: on the verge of producing work.
In the jam, we split up into groups to do some open improvisations but always with the idea of Sats in mind to help propel us from one state to the next.
The most striking result of this was that as we progressed, we noticed a shift in the improvisations. The jammers became more constrained in when they moved. That is to say, they showed restraint, moving only when necessary. They held on to their energy for longer periods of time, stayed with one gesture or movement or shape for increased durations. Thus, when they did change states, the impact was felt all the more strongly.
I look forward to hearing your thoughts on this. Please continue the conversation in the comments section.
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