I’m sitting here watching the snow on my first day off in a long time. I feel really peaceful and pretty happy. If you had talked to me last week I was terribly low and frustrated. Such is life I suppose. Ups and Downs. Days like this are so special. Time to myself, beauty outside, and a positive outlook. What more can I ask for really?
We get distracted in this business. We are all so anxious to reach the next rung on our success ladder that sometimes we forget to take a breath and just enjoy the climb. We are not all destined for greatness. And even if we are, there is always a higher level of greatness to achieve. If we’re constantly yearning for something better that is not a very happy existence.
This year has been a little rough. I haven’t felt truly artistically stimulated since I did Bernarda Alba last fall. I’ve worked consistently, and they’ve all been good experiences in their own way. I would just love to do a show that makes my “gut rumble and my heart want to explode.” (-the lovely Kate Winslet) Funnily enough my two favorite theatrical experiences this year involved understudying. Going on for Man of La Mancha and Bombs Away were definite highlights of my year.
In the meantime I have tried to make the shows I’ve done as challenging as possible; I always want to learn something. I took an audition class with the amazing Doug Peck and Andy Hite. It really inspired me to work harder and not rest on my laurels. And I just keep trucking along. I look forward to the new year and new challenges.
Some words of sage advice for actors before I go:
1) For those that are still doing non-equity work, don’t be afraid to speak up when safety is concerned. With shows with smaller budgets a lot of times corners are cut to save money. If you feel unsafe at any time because of the set, costumes, or any other reason, SPEAK UP! You may be labeled a difficult actor for a day or two, but it’s better than the alternative of really hurting yourself. When you aren’t a member of the union, the only person truly looking out for you is YOU. So remember that.
2) Until you have a contract in your hand, you are not truly cast in a show. Remember that it feels great to be wooed for a part or a show, but that it doesn’t mean anything. A lot of times directors need to make sure that there are good people at their auditions. Basically they need to cover their bases. They need at least one person that will work for their production to show up at auditions or callbacks to cover each role. That doesn’t mean that when the audition comes that they won’t decide to cast the newcomer instead. So while it’s flattering, try to ignore it. Show up, audition, rock it out, and leave it to the Gods to decide.
That’s all! I really hope that all my friends and fellow artists have a wonderful Holiday. I’ll be with my family and I hope you’ll be with yours whether real or acquired. Enjoy each other. Treasure your lives, your loves, and your talents. I wish you the best in the New Year!
Love, Harmony
