Peter Trotman is a performer known for his unique physicality, heightened by graphic verbal abilities and a wry wit. Based inNaarm/Melbourne, Australia, he was a member of Al Wunder’s Theatre of the Ordinary from 1982 – 88. Following this emerged a fruitful and intensive 13-year period of research and collaboration with Andrew Morrish. Together, they performed in Australia and overseas to considerable acclaim. This periodforged many of Peter’s ideas about improvisation, dance, and language. Now predominantly a solo artist, with the occasional collaboration, he continues to explore his curiosity into the potential for both movement and text to emerge with richvibrant form in the present moment of performance. An ongoing aspect of his work has been the progressive evolution of a map of developmental strategies and forms, always searching for what is useful, clarifying, challenging, and generative.
In this episode of 'Interviews with Improvisers', Peter Trotman, an experienced performer from Melbourne, Australia, shares his journey into the world of improvisation. Peter discusses his background in dance, the influence of mentors such as Al Wonder, and his collaborative work with Andrew Morrish. He delves into the nuances of combining movement and language, the importance of disrupting habitual patterns, and his improvisational practice involving techniques like fast-talking and imaginative storytelling. Additionally, Peter speaks about his interest in teaching and developing a series of analytical workshops. He reflects on how political and personal contexts permeate his performances, shaping them into rich, multifaceted experiences.
00:00 Introduction to Peter Trotman
01:25 Peter's Early Life and Career Beginnings
02:10 Discovering Dance and Improvisation
03:15 Formative Years
06:35 Theater of Ordinary and Beyond
07:21 Exploring Language and Movement
10:11 Experimental Performances and Techniques
18:55 The Elements Framework
23:47 Exploring Character Personas
24:12 Personal Reflections and Performances
25:58 The Evolution of Performance Art
27:30 Imaginative Storytelling Techniques
28:59 Political Themes in Improvisation
36:53 Teaching and Workshops
40:14 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans
