a community of practitioners

On-site Massage for Actors

Hello all-I have a friend who is starting up a new theatre project and she'd like me to provide on-site massage for the director and actors, etc once I have my license. As you know actors and performers experience a particular type of stress and pressure during rehearsals and performances and they have a great need for relaxation, not just for their own mental well-being, but also for the benefit of the body and the voice. Do I provide chair massage in 10 to 15 minute massage sessions or take my table and go all out? I know that massage is particularly good for relaxing and revitalising the upper part of the body prior to a performance.

I am curious though as to what type of massage is best for an actor's needs? Just a general relaxing Swedish Massage? Does it matter if it's before they go on stage, in between scenes or after the show like it would for massage for athletes or at sports events?

Thanks,

Lara

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Bridget Turnbach on July 15, 2010 at 8:53am

Thank you for the question Lara. To answer the first part of your question. I would bring both the chair and the table, leaning more toward giving table massage. Having the chair on hand gives your options as well as your clients. If its the neck and throat the actors need to continue on then lying flat on the table will allow for better traction and effective work. The needs of an Actor is the same as the needs of the individual. In order to best meets those needs you will need to get to know your clients. That is why I suggest bringing both table and chair to be prepared. Use your intuition in determing "what type of massage" the person needs. Perhaps even a 15 reflexology treatment will be most effective.