For the past few months, I've been involved in the school musical, CATS. I am cast as a dancer, and the character I play is Rumpleteazer. The main reason I signed up to audition was to gain performing experience. Even though I have been dancing the majority of my lifetime, I was still feeling slightly anxious before shows. Im not really a "natural performer" so to speak, and I just wanted more experience to try and increase my confidence and therefore maximize the quality of my performances. What seemed like a logical explanation to engage in a learning experience turned into so much more.
I didn't expect it to be so lively, and vibrant. Some of the singers in the show have absolutely beautiful voices. I don't sing at all, so I have almost no exposure to how choral education goes. I always thought that singing was more of a natural talent, in that those who are really good are mostly born with the ability(naive, I know). But there are so many technical aspects to it, like breathing, diction, posture, tone, etc. The more I listened in on the vocal practice, the more it started to sound like a dance class. Everyone received notes to improve upon, no matter how talented they were. There was always room for improvement, and everyone was trying their hardest to do their best.
Aside from the hard work of the cast members, there are so many people working to make the show possible. Costume and makeup volunteers, stage crew, tech supervisors. The audience applauds for the performers, but the performers applaud the volunteers.
I also didn't expect to make so many friends. Of course I already knew the other dancers from my dance studio, but the theater kids just seemed so loud and expressive. Not in a bad way, but Im not the kind of person to belt out random show tunes for fun. But everyone was super nice and inviting. As rehearsals have progressed, we have all become much closer, and we all get along really well.
As the hours count down to our first show, I can't believe how much I've enjoyed being in the musical. Just being backstage, silently standing with my back to the rough wooden supports for the set, I feel completely at ease. Performing isn't about being completely comfortable and perfect onstage. Rather, it is about a genuine desire to show the audience what you've been working on, and working together with your fellow performers to provide the audience with the best show you can muster.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UthNI8QosMY
Dear Jean,
ReplyDeleteMy experience was so similar. I only auditioned for a dancing part because I cannot sing for my life. Watching them work on all the songs showed me how much work it will be for them to act, sing and dance at the same time. The experience we've had has been amazing. The friends I've made I know will last me a long time. The hour long constant session of posts last night on Facebook are proving of that. I am excited to do these shows, we will have tons of fun both on and of stage. I definitely think I've learnt a lot about myself as well. Looking back on it, it took a lot of time, and a lot of stress, but the memories are worth it.
Jean, I know we weren't too close of friends before the musical this year, but it has been amazing to get to know more about you! Spending a lot of time with you has been great and although I am nervous for tonight I think we will be amazing! I agree with what you said about the actors. I never thought I would become so close with them since our personalities are so different, but I really learned a lot about not judging people at first sight. It is so cool to be around people who can sing and play guitar and make silly jokes. Thanks for making this experience great for me ! :) best of luck
ReplyDeleteI completely understand where you're coming from, Jean! I feel that way whenever I perform. I hope you continue performing, because it really opens you up to others.
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