Student Blog: Workshopping a new show

This semester, I have the privilege of workshopping a brand new production! I wanted to share a little bit about this amazing experience. It has been a really valuable acting and general life skill to be able to connect with a group of people on a deeper level. I auditioned for Sleepy Hollow in the spring knowing it would be a devised version. This means that the director will write the play as the rehearsal process goes on.

Since the production is in this format, we have spent the past few days workshopping and exploring ideas. I believe that workshopping is something everyone should experience because it is an invaluable lesson to be able to work with your fellow cast members. I am lucky that this production has a small cast so we can all take time to know each other instead of just feeling like a number in a huge cast.

During workshopping we did many team-building exercises. One of my favorites was getting up and sharing our fears, goals, experiences, etc... At first, the idea was super scary. However, I believe we all walked away from that rehearsal having a deeper appreciation and understanding for everyone in the cast. Through that exercise, I realized that I share many attributes with people especially their fears. We were all able to really recognize that each one of us is only human with human emotions. I think that oftentimes we get caught up in our day-to-day activities and never really stop to talk and connect with someone. This is a really useful skill for anyone to have especially performers. In order to put on a great performance we have to understand everyone's strengths and weaknesses but most importantly, treat everyone with the same respect and dignity.

After the exercise, I had shared some thoughts with everyone. It is really amazing how powerful the stage is. I don't think we would go around telling everyone what our deepest fears are in everyday conversations. The stage brings all of that out in the open and is a safe haven for whatever people want to share/speak about. When you have a great cast, you never feel judged or accused of anything. This weekend has taught me so much about myself and who I am as a person. When you get an opportunity to work on a new production, take it! I promise that you won't regret it.

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