Mel Stein

Mel Stein serves as a University Professor at the Music and Arts Private University of the City of Vienna since 2005, specializing in performance arts integration with physical combat techniques and somatic practices.

Education:

• Classical dance training (1990–1992)
• Degree in musical entertainment theater from Vienna Conservatory (now MUK) (1996)
• Stage fencing master certification (St. Gallen & Mödling Fencing Union, 2000/2001)
• Classical vocal training (2009–present)
• Muscle balance and movement analysis certification (PerformDance Institute, Linz, 2010–2012)
• Unarmed combat training (2010)
• Reiki master (Vienna, 2015)
• Physioenergetics practitioner (International Academy for Physioenergetics Vienna, 2015–2016)
• Kinesiology Taping certification (Vienna, 2015/2016)

Research focuses on the biomechanics of theatrical combat, cross-disciplinary movement diagnostics, and energy-based performance enhancement. Stein pioneered methods integrating historical fencing techniques with contemporary dance pedagogy while developing somatic frameworks for injury prevention in stage combatants. Current work explores the physiological impact of Reiki and kinesiology on vocal production in musical theater performers.

Professional practice includes workshops in stage combat choreography, weapons training, and movement analysis for major European theaters including Theater der Jugend, Wiener Metropol, and Theater im Rabenhof. Since 2017, Stein has advanced clinical applications of physioenergetics for performer rehabilitation.