Hypnosis as a Tool for Theatrical Performance

Hypnosis significantly enhanced actors' immersion and ability to authentically represent characters, independent of gender. Sixteen male and sixteen female actors performed two distinct roles, a firefighter and a fire victim, randomly assigned under hypnotic and non-hypnotic conditions. The Elkins Hypnotizability Scale (EHS) measured individual hypnotizability. Post-performance questionnaires assessed perceived improvements in role absorption and character engagement. Hypnosis improved role congruence and acting performance, offering a valuable tool for theatrical training and performance enhancement.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Hypnosis has been described as a tool that facilitates immersion into roles by modulating cognitive and attentional processes. This study aimed to evaluate how hypnosis can help actors create and interpret characters. Previous research has occasionally reported gender differences in hypnotic susceptibility and responses to hypnotic interventions. Although not a primary aim of this study, gender-related variations in hypnotizability were explored as secondary findings. Sixteen male and sixteen female actors performed two distinct roles, a firefighter and a fire victim, randomly assigned under hypnotic and non-hypnotic conditions. The Elkins Hypnotizability Scale (EHS) was used to measure individual hypnotizability. Participants completed post-performance questionnaires to assess perceived improvements in role absorption and character engagement. Results demonstrated that hypnosis significantly enhanced actors' immersion and their ability to authentically represent characters, independent of gender. These findings suggest that hypnosis can improve role congruence and acting performance, offering a valuable tool for theatrical training and performance enhancement.