Show Business is a highly competitive industry. Breaking into the industry can require more than talent, it also requires discipline and a strong mentality.
Currently I am most interested in musical theatre. Musical Theatre requires a range of different performing skills. I am interested in other areas such as film and stage acting. My interest in musical theatre has grown from being exposed to musicals such as Hamilton and Le Miserable, but also from performing in college. Due to being a broad spectrum performer, I have found that my skill set and abilities are most suited for this style. Therefore I have chosen on focusing and developing my skills in the areas required for this style.
Musical Theatre is extremely popular and there have been many new musicals produced in recent years. Productions such as Hamilton and Sister act as added to new dimension to this style, whilst existing productions are still in high demand.
Skills Development
Musical Theatre is varied and performers need to develop acting, singing and dance skills. It is in essence of combination of styles. Actors would be required to work with different performers, some who may only have a background in their specific area. Due to my interest in musical theatre and broad spectrum ability, I have looked to expand and develop my skill set in this area.
Acting - I started acting only when I started college in 2020. My first acting experience came from the various workshops in class, exploring different styles of performance such as Greek Theatre and Brecht. To begin with I was extremely nervous and found I was unable to fully express myself. I found playing characters helped create a mask that made performing more comfortable. I was involved in the musical 'Hair Spray' where I played the 'Spritzer' character during 'You can't stop the beat'. This cameo role provided confidence to continue to persist with acting and developed an interest in musical theatre.
Since then, I have studied and explored practitioners in areas such as devising, physical theatre and realism. I was able to use physical theatre to create a character for a Frightmare style performance. My character was extremely aggressive and used varying tempo to cause many reactions. Workshops that I found most useful for developing in physical theatre include the 7 levels of tension, flying workshops, the 8 efforts, fright fest training, and animal style movements.
I also performed Pinter 'Review Sketches' in college. The plays are absurdist, but realism techniques were used when analysing the script, such exploring subtext, developing a character backstory, emotional memory and the method of physical action (gestures).
Outside of college, I have been involved within amateur dramatics. I have been rehearsing for a production of the pantomime 'Treasure Island'. This is to be performed on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd of July. I have been attending rehearsals for many months and have been able to integrate with the other performers. The rehearsals have provided confidence and the company has been very supportive. My role includes acting, but also singing and some dance. I have a secondary role as a background character. The company I am involved with for this production is 'The Dean Theatre Company'.
Training: Realism, Physical Theatre, Absurdity
Dance: Dance is an important part of Musical Theatre. Many of the songs and scenes use dance of some form. The dance within musical theatre are normally collective and performed in chorus and part of the show. Dance is a key element that makes musical theatre distinct from other styles. Quite often the performer may work in chorus with other performers, or perform routines solo. Even actors would be required to dance. It is therefore important that an actor has skills beyond acting. Before I started at college, most of my dance experience had been from nightclubbing or when generally listening to music. My dance style was generally considered clownish. I also attended some Zumba classes, as I use dance as a form of exercise. Attending college revealed that I have some potential as a dancer and have my own natural style, but I can have some difficulties picking up choreography. I have been able to explore and perform different styles such as street, contemporary and chorus dancing in college.
Outside of college, I regularly use dance as part of my exercise. I find the exercise more beneficial than typical exercise. I am currently exploring ball room dancing, which I attend weekly if I do not have commitments elsewhere. The styles include the Waltz, Samba and Jazz. Although I am still learning the steps, I feel that the style has added another dimension to my own technique and also an activity to supplements my performer lifestyle. I have been able to network with the dance instructor and they may possibly be able to help me with learning dance styles required for films. The class is an important part of my support network, where even if I am not performing or in college, I can still attend classes to work on skills and socialise with friends.
Singing - Musical Theatre often requires performers to sing songs, either solo, duets or in chorus. The performer would need to be able to learn the songs for various productions they are involved in. I have always liked music, but lacked confidence singing. Out of the 3 styles, I am most focused on working on my singing techniques and style. Before college, I was too nervous and lacking the confidence to sing in public. Being part of a chorus in college performances helped break down some of my inhibitions and I felt I gained the skill to at least perform in chorus if required. Recently in college, I was required to develop a vocal repertoire of songs from various musical genres. I was also required to perform solo during a live production as part of this term. I have been able to explore many songs for the term coming from musicals such as Les Miserables, Sunday in the Park of George and The Man of La Mancha. I had not performed solo for a live audience before and was still nervous in this regards. However, having now gained confidence from this performance, I now feel more relaxed on stage. Finding my own interpretations of songs and not trying to be too technical has also improved my vocal skill.
For the last year, I have been part of a choir group in the Forest of Dean. The choir has allowed me to work on learning songs an encouraged me to develop skills such as projection, singing to specific keys, correct technique and choral work. Like the dance class, the group is an important part of my social support network and I have received positive feedback within the group. I have also been able to network within the group. The choir also perform to live audience, having performed in two events and also due to perform at the Coleford Music Festival. Therefore, the choir gives my experience performing to a live audience and potential exposure as a singer. The choir group I am part of is: https://www.forestsingers.co.uk/
I have networked with the conductor in the group and again his services for 1-2-1 signing tuition. I have been learning 'Living la Vida lo ca' and having difficult meeting the demands of the song. Therefore he was been able to provide instruction to help me own this song. The main problems I had with this song were that I was too tense, lacking confidence, being too technical and singing from the chest in a lower range. I now enjoying the song. I was taught foremost to simply smile and have fun, its a pantomime. This helped me relax and starting performing to a basic level. I was advise to start using a rock/pop style for this song as I had become to regimented from choir. Lewis was able to use his skills and own experience of the song as a performer to demonstrate the song using a 'Bon Jovi' style. Since gaining this new understanding, I have been able to find myself more capable of performing the song and have developed my own interpretation. Lewis has also helped me develop technically and to not be as so tense singing. The training includes a range of songs, mostly focused on softening and rounding of the voice. His feedback and working with him has provided me with confidence as a performer. Although I have only had a few lessons. The singing coach I am networked with is:
Where am I at?
Currently, with all the experience and confidence I have gained, I now see myself at a level of a family entertainer. My preference is to be able to perform to a family or inclusive audience, so I feel I am heading in the right direction. I have received positive feedback from the theatre company I am connected to, so I am also capable working in Amateur dramatics, in productions such as pantomimes. I am still raw and developing, but I am capabilities of learning character roles, dance and songs. At this moment, I feel a lot more confident on stage, I am beginning to own the stage, not just the parts. I am finding myself and also able to apply my personality to the stage. I have no issue with breaking the forth wall and interacting with the audience and often the audience is more intimidated by me than I am of them. I realise now most of nervousness comes from my own inner pressure and I needed to let go of some of the pressure in order to apply my relaxed nature to stage, This has helped me develop most as a performer. Technique is important, but being comfortable on stage is essential.
I have a big heart and I will give everything in performance. I have come full circle. I had become so focused on technique and study I had pushed aside the essential of heart and soul. Out of any skill, talent or abilities I may or may not posses, this is my primary asset. I will give my last ounce of courage, will try when my arms are too weary, when performing to an audience.
I have now explored different styles of acting and theatre styles. I have dived into different worlds learning various different characters. I have been involved in performances, but also in crewing and production. I am now defining myself and where I want to be. I am still interested in playing characters and working with others, but also I have other areas to explore.
Although working on skills is important it is also important to explore the media from an audience. Before attending college, I had little experience watching live performances outside of bands and musicians. I have come to find more interest in stage plays and musicals, than for example, watching films. I have been to watch varying styles I wish to work in the industry, it is essential that I gain more exposure to live theatre productions. During a live performance there is more energy and intimacy. The energy of the performers can be felt and live performance is also a stronger social norm than film.
Where do I aim to be?
The impossible dream?
Although I am most interested in Musical Theatre, I am working to working within other areas of the industry such as film+TV roles. I am also open to crewing or working production roles within my capabilities.
Paid Work: Now I am some confidence and performance skills, it would be worth considering looking for work that allows me to use my new skills and performing abilities Although I am currently on benefits, ideally, in the long run I would like to be able to work for an income. Not only does this provide an income, but also experience. An example of the type of roles I could gain work as a performer is Fright Fest or similar roles. Due to my experience performing in college, creating a terrifying act during our own fright mare style performance, I feel I could be capable of working in this role. This is a niche market which only runs during the Halloween period, but is worth still considering working in this area.
Amateur Dramatics: I already have some experience of amateur dramatics through working with the dean theatre company on the production of 'Treasure Island'. The group has given me a lot of confidence as a performer and allowed me to network. There are some professional and veteran amateur performers who I am able to converse with in regards to the industry and sharing skills. My college experience and additional training has enhanced my performance to create a unique and interesting character. Even though I am an outsider, I am a strong personality within the group and I am considering continuing to work with the company on further productions.
Workshops: Having now picked up a good understanding of certain skills and a passion for different performance styles, I have considered running workshops within a local venue. I would offer acting and performance related classes. The classes may be a method of using my skills to create income. I can also work with local performers, students or help people explore performance. Tropes and companies could also be formed from the workshops. I have been able to run workshops in college as part of the course. I have also gained confidence from performing and this would provide encouragement of my capability to provide instruction to a group.
Agencies: Now I have some experience and am putting together a portfolio of my work and training, it would be worth looking to start join agencies. Often, a performer would not gain work directly by applying to a company but by registering with a an agency. Before I join an agency I must have a portfolio of my work and different photographs such as a head shot. An example of an agency is https://phoenixcasting.tv//. Due to my interest in musical theatre, it is would be recommended to join agencies suited for this industry.
Running Crew: I enjoyed the process of crewing during the production. I felt the buzz, the energy that is generated during rehearsals and the production, but part of me also feels like I want to be in it. I am capable as a running crew member and able to perform in varying roles. In life I have more experience in roles that are similar to being a running crew than a performer. Professionally, being part of the running crew is a useful tool to finding a gateway into the industry. This could be exclusively as a crew member, in production, or as a performer. Working on a production is a useful networking strategy even if you are not performing.
Background (Extra): Before I start auditioning for speaking roles, it may be worth applying to be a background performer in various productions. This would provided experience of working in a professional production and increase my profile. Potential, I may be able to gain further roles by networking whilst working as background in productions.
Musical Theatre: Professionally, I would like to work in musical theatre. There are many styles that appeal to me, but from the 'player' perspective, I enjoyed most being involved in musical theatre. This is because my natural personality is musical and melodramatic. Although I would accept many roles, I would better when music is involved. I am also more capable of learning songs than script. Most of my training and study of theatre has become most focused on musical stage and film productions.
Solo Act: As I have my confidence on stage, I feel I have the potential to working on solo acts for small/local venues. My act could work towards performing multiple character, or performing particular style of songs. I recently watch a '1 man show' and discovered a model of performing solo, which included story telling, voice acting, shapeshifting, playing multiple characters and folk style songs. The scene included projections such as distant characters, that added further dimensions to the performance. The performance also included pre recorded dialogue and the performer was able to hide technical equipment within the scenery. Being able to perform in small venues or to niche audiences, could be a method of earning an income. Importantly I will gain additional experience and exposure.
Small ensemble troupe: Recently in college, we were asked to produce a themed musical that would be used to showcase our individual work. For this, I had chosen to perform songs for the production. My part overall was a cameo role, where I came in, said a few lines and then performed. I would then leave the stage. I also play a cameo role in the pantomime production. I prefer this role to a lead and potentially could form troupe, where we create small performances which are then used to showcase our various abilities.
Producer: Although I have many tools of the performer, including a child like personality, my mind works like a producer. I would like to create new performances and even open a theatre. As a producer I would work with local and/or unknown talents than aim to produce performances based on interests of the troupe or company. Productions could vary from independent films and documentaries, stage productions such as musicals and dark comedy, An example could be to use Public Domain Works such as Shakespeare. I have gained experience as a producer by producing my own work. I have worked in production areas such as running crew or lighting. TO gain further production experience and gain an understanding of the business side of the industry, I am looking to explore the role of a producer next term.
Trends
The model of performance is constantly changing. The changes occur because of new technologies being introduced, new styles being developed, new stories being produced and changes in culture However, the most fundamental driving force of change in the industry recently has been the pandemic. This has lead to a trend for more productions being made available via media platforms. This is now what is considered the 'new normal' and although there is a demand for theatre, digitisation is also a method for performance.
The New Normal- The Pandemic has changed the shape of the performance arts industry Live Performance was the possible the industry most affected due to lock down restrictions. This is because Theatre is dependent on a present audience, that attends the venue to watch the performance. The pandemic has created a need and trend towards digitalisation, where live performances are also recorded for cinema or streaming services. This allows the industry to persist with productions during crisis such as COVID 19. With live performance the most effected by the pandemic other styles benefited Voice acting became a more prominent art form during the crisis as the actors can work in isolation in potentially any location. Therefore, it is worth considering developing a profile as a voice actor. I have some experience from creating work in college and it would be wise to create examples in my portfolio.
Social Media - Facebook, Instagram, Tik-Tok and YouTube are now useful tools and a potential platform for an artists. Many professional or personalities have become mainstream or achieve cult status through their use of social media. The individual does not need to be a performer to gain success from these platforms and many of the most popular social media are gamers or podcasters.
Streaming Service: Streaming service have now become almost the de facto method for delivering films. This trend has been growing for a while, but the pandemic has encouraged even live performances to streaming levels. Improved technology has also allowed the quality of the broadcasts of live performance to become more intimate. Streaming service such as Netflix offer a platform for Independent Film producers to broadcast their films to a mainstream audience. Services such as Amazon Prime also premiered films that were originally scheduled to be shown in cinema.
Crowdfunded Productions Many productions such as independent films, are now moving towards crowdfunding. Crowdfunding is a method where individuals and donate money to a concept such as a new idea, technology or films. This could be fans or people with a shared interest. Essentially, a producer will have an idea and 'the crowd' become the executives IN return for their donation, they may receive some credit, or some input into the concept. This method is useful knowledge to any potential producer.
Digital Theatre: Live Theatre has now been able to harness the use of technology such as LCD and pixelated lighting in order to enhance the performance. Screen can be used to display accurate representations of scenery. Technology has also been used to create stage performances that are made for streaming cinema's or released in a cinema. This trend has been influenced by the pandemic and would be utilised again if their was a similar outbreak in the future.
The latest trend in digitalisation of performance comes through deep fake and hologram technology. These technologies have been mainly used to recreate, or return to life, deceased performers. It has also been used for an ABBA performance, where the original band were made to appear as they were during their early career via the use of this technology I personally feel this technology is something of a novelty. However, there is a dark side to this technology, such as is it ethical to recreate deceased performers? Do performers have a right to die? Yes, their material still exists and is available to the public, but to recreate them holographically is different. Personally, I do not agree that we should be bring the dead back to life in this manner, unless their is an ethical or specific reason to do so.
However, despite the trend in movement towards digitalisation, I feel that live performance is still extremely popular.
Zoom/Virtual Auditions: Although theatres are now producing live plays, since COVID, most professional theatres and TV/film producers will now audition using technology such as zoom. This makes auditioning more challenging for the performer as they now need to become self producers and be experienced with working with digital technology. There are benefits to working a face to face audition, as it is more natural and it is easier to develop a chemistry with the company. If they like you they may give you the part even if you are not perfect technically. It also shows commitment to the role as you have to travel to the audition at your own cost. Virtual auditioning creates greater competition as the audition become more accessible to a wider network. IT is therefore worth gaining media experience as a performer, training to work with a camera, even if you are working towards a career on stage,
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