Kokyu Studio, a Laboratory for the Performer-Warrior

ABSTRACT This article investigates the transcultural dialogue between the principles of Jerzy Grotowski’s researches and Japanese martial practices, promoted by the laboratory work of the Kokyu Studio at the Grotowski Institute in Wroclaw. Based on field research conducted in 2020, the aim is to analyse how the transfer of psycho-physical and spiritual qualities, martial ethics and a culture of the self developed by aikido and misogi harai takes place for the performer. The testimonies collected and observations made allow us to concretely examine how the actor’s work is modified in order to build the performer-warrior of a ritualized theatre.