Jacques Lecoq

Jacques Lecoq was a French actor, director, and movement coach best known for his teaching methods in physical theatre, movement and mime. Born in Paris, France on December 15, 1921, Lecoq was interested in physical education and sports at a young age, particularly gymnastics. He studied physical education and sport at Bagatelle College outside of Paris before becoming involved in theatre. Influenced by Commedia dell’arte, Lecoq is best known for his creation of the “neutral mask” and his 7 states of tension. Lecoq created his own school, L’École Internationale de Théâtre Jacques Lecoq, in 1956 and the school has become world renowned as a place to study physical theatre. In his personal life, Lecoq met his wife, Fay Lees Lecoq, in 1957. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, Fay moved to Paris to study mime. The two were married in 1960 and had three children together. Fay helped Jacque to run his school and worked as an interpreter and translator during conferences about Lecoq’s methods around the world. Jacques Lecoq died on January 19, 1999 from a cerebral hemorrhage. After his death, Fay took on the role of director at the school. After Fay’s death in 2012, their daughter Pascale became the director, carrying on her family’s legacy.

Key Dates & Events

• 1956 - Lecoq founds L’École Internationale de Théâtre Jacques Lecoq
• 1968 - Lecoq teaches his physical theatre methods at Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts
• 1999 - The documentary film about Lecoq's methods, Les Deux Voyages de Jacques Lecoq, is released