Berkoff

Berkoff focuses on the physical abilities of the actors in substitution for sets and props, often being called total theatre. He uses Brechtian styles and techniques from Jacques Lecoq.

Some techniques he used were:

• stylised movement, slow motion, robotic, ensemble
• exaggeration of facial expressions 
• direct asides and tableaux
• minimalistic use of costume and set
• use of mime and masks

Physical Theatre

Berkoff emphasized the importance of the body being used to tell a story. His work relies on exaggerated physicality to show meaning, emotion, and narration. Actors in his productions frequently use their bodies to create settings, objects, or different concepts, minimizing the need for elaborate stage props or scenery. 

• Movements were heightened, non-naturalistic, and created an alienated quality

Minimalism

Berkoff's productions are famous for their minimalistic approach to set, costume, and props. This minimalism puts the focus on the actors and their performance, forcing the audience to engage their imagination.

• He often used empty space to emphasise the actors' movements, and physical techniques.
• Symbolism was also used over practicality when props were used in him play, forcing the actors to rely more on portraying their characters in unordinary ways.

Non-naturalism

Berkoff rejected realism and naturalism in favour of a heightened, theatrical style. His work aims to challenge traditional storytelling methods and engage audiences in a more deep and imaginative way.

• Alienation effect- using Brechtian principles, Berkoff usually breaks the fourth wall, with direct address, or either making them aware of the uncomfortable atmosphere created by the actors.
• Chorus- the actors would normally perform as a group, speaking at the same time, same rhythm of movements, or even the same movements.

Influences towards Berkoff's style

Greek Theatre:

• Berkoff draws heavily on the traditions of Greek theatre, particularly its use of exaggerated language, and chorus work. Greek tragedy's emphasis on collective storytelling, where the chorus is a main role in narrating and commenting on the action, is used in Berkoff's ensemble work. Berkoff's plays often explore typical themes, such as power, corruption, and transformation, and moral dilemmas seen in Greek tragedies.

Commedia dell'Arte

• The Italian tradition of Commedia dell'Arte influenced Berkoff's use of exaggerated physicality, stock characters, and stylized performance.  Berkoff's actors use bold, theatrical gestures and physical movements, akin to the masked characters of Commedia dell'Arte. Berkoff's actors use bold, theatrical gestures and physical movements, akin to the masked characters of Commedia dell'Arte.

Expressionism

• Berkoff uses surreal and exaggerated techniques to convey psychological and emotional realities rather than literal truth. The stark, minimalist visual style of Expressionism such as, using light, shadow, and the actor's body to create atmosphere is a dominant theme in Berkoff's plays.

Brecht

• Berkoff was influenced by Bertolt Brecht's Epic Theatre, particularly Brecht's focus on engaging the audience intellectually and encouraging critical reflection, sometimes known as theatre for the mind. Like Brecht, Berkoff breaks the audience's focus on the play by breaking the fourth wall, and using direct address. Berkoff's plays often criticise society, mimicking Brecht's use of theatre as a medium for showing power dynamics and social injustices.