Steven Berkoff
1937 - Present | Total Theatre & Expressionism
Total Theatre
Steven Berkoff is one of the most distinctive voices in British theatre. He rejects Naturalism (which he calls "boring") in favor of a high-energy, exaggerated style known as Total Theatre. His work combines the precision of mime with the power of Shakespearean language, often focusing on the grotesque nature of society.
Interactive: The Grotesque Scale
Berkoff uses Expressionism to show the internal thoughts of a character on the outside. Move the slider to see how a simple action is transformed into Berkoffian Theatre.
Essential Terminology
Using every theatrical device to extreme effect. Nothing is subtle.
Making movement and vocal delivery larger than life to reveal the "truth" behind the social mask.
Showing a character's inner emotion through their outer body language (e.g., shaking violently to show fear).
Berkoff rarely uses props. Actors use mime to create tables and doors, forcing the audience to imagine the world.
Try Berkoff-style choices
Describe the scene. Get three physical, vocal or design choices inspired by Berkoff’s Total Theatre.