With the deadline nearly upon us I thought I would post a brief conclusion on what I feel I have learnt so far. Although I struggled to start I feel that once I got into the course it became easier to maintain my focus. I have learnt a lot of new theories and ways of focusing my ideas which I shall continue to use throughout the course and i am sure they will aid me in becoming a more rounded learner. My Professional Networking is now something i am far more conscious of and i know the importance it has in my career and therefore the attention i need to give it in the future.
I look forward to embarking on the next part of the course with you all soon!
About Me
- Lisa B
- I am 22 years old and having recently graduated from the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts I have decided to embark on the Workbased Learning Course at Middlesex University. I have been interested in performing since a very early age, participating in ballet lessons from the age of 5. As I got older my passion only grew stronger and at the age of 19 after completing 4 A-Levels i decieded to study performing arts full time and have never looked back. Spotlight Link: http://www.spotlight.com/interactive/cv/063134220241 Skills include: · Advanced 2 modern ISTD · Advanced 1 Tap ISTD · Intermediate Ballet IDTA · Gold Jazz ISTD · Voice – Mezzo Soprano, Strong Belt · Accents – RP, Cockney, Standard American · Foundation Certificate in Stage Fighting · Competent Horse Rider · Grade 4 Violin ABRSM · Grade 4 Piano ABRSM · Full Driving Licence
Thursday, 6 January 2011
Wednesday, 5 January 2011
Task 2c - Reflective Theory
Reflective practice is something which I have never analysed before. Although it may be something I have used it has never been something I have ever thought about. I believe reflection to be important as it gives you the opportunity to look at your experiences in more than one way and therefore question previous assumptions. Being able to look back on something and analyse it gives you the chance to see it in a new light and through somebody else’s eyes. Kolb’s learning cycle is a good way of understanding how different people approach different situation in order to make sense of them. Kolb stated that people learn in one of the following ways:
Dewey’s views on learning are linked to this in that he talks of continually reconstructing your experience and reorganising it so you’re able to better understand its importance. Once you have had time to sit back and reflect on what’s happened you may find that your initial gut feeling was way of the mark. Impulse reactions are not something we can control but they are something we can reflect upon and therefore learn from. This could be a very powerful attribute to have in Professional Networking
As a performer I find Moons research on how to articulate tacit knowledge to be fascinating. I often find it hard to put together the words to describe what I’m thinking and in a professional situation this can be extremely detrimental. People aren’t able to read minds and if you can’t narrate what you are thinking it is almost impossible for others to understand. For example; nobody would want a director who cant project the image in their mind out into words for others to act out. It is essential to be able to articulate your thoughts, again this is something I wish to develop further throughout my career.
Writing a critical reflection would be described by Schon as a ‘reflection-on-action’ process, it is something you have to do after an experience not during it. Whilst writing my journals I have reflected on events gone by where my ‘reflection-in-action’ - what I did at the time - may not have worked out so well. Having the ability to both think on your feet and later reflect on what has happened is vital to growing as an academic and as a person. If you don’t learn from your mistakes and those of others you will continue to make them. I shall use many of these theories on my journey of professional networking and I shall continue to post bloggs to update you on my development!
- Doing something
- Reflective observation
- Abstract Conceptualism
- Active Experimentation
Dewey’s views on learning are linked to this in that he talks of continually reconstructing your experience and reorganising it so you’re able to better understand its importance. Once you have had time to sit back and reflect on what’s happened you may find that your initial gut feeling was way of the mark. Impulse reactions are not something we can control but they are something we can reflect upon and therefore learn from. This could be a very powerful attribute to have in Professional Networking
As a performer I find Moons research on how to articulate tacit knowledge to be fascinating. I often find it hard to put together the words to describe what I’m thinking and in a professional situation this can be extremely detrimental. People aren’t able to read minds and if you can’t narrate what you are thinking it is almost impossible for others to understand. For example; nobody would want a director who cant project the image in their mind out into words for others to act out. It is essential to be able to articulate your thoughts, again this is something I wish to develop further throughout my career.
Writing a critical reflection would be described by Schon as a ‘reflection-on-action’ process, it is something you have to do after an experience not during it. Whilst writing my journals I have reflected on events gone by where my ‘reflection-in-action’ - what I did at the time - may not have worked out so well. Having the ability to both think on your feet and later reflect on what has happened is vital to growing as an academic and as a person. If you don’t learn from your mistakes and those of others you will continue to make them. I shall use many of these theories on my journey of professional networking and I shall continue to post bloggs to update you on my development!
Task 3d - Critical Questions & Issues that Emerge
I have always struggled with organisation, juggling work, studying and a social life can be hard to say the least! I have discovered that I need to dedicate more of my time to Networking and research in order to keep up with the course. I find it hard to focus sometimes as I find I am more of a hands on person. I find sitting at a desk and typing very hard to engage with, especially when it is about a topic I am not overly familiar with.
I don’t have that many follows of my blog which has made me realise that I need to make more of an effort. I need to ensure that my blog is informative and worthwhile else why should I expect others to take an interest in what I am writing. I know that I need to take time to comment on other peoples work. Although I look at other blogs and think of commenting I never actually take the time to do so. I have found that by not keeping up to date with my blog postings people have already moved on and therefore don’t wish to revisit a topic. This is entirely my own fault, but due to work commitments I have not spent as much time and energy on this module as perhaps others have. This is definitely something I wish to improve on in the future and have decided to set aside at least an hour a day from now on so I don’t get behind with the next module.
Although I haven’t yet embraced the Blogging world fully I do see how sharing ideas and communicating with others can be beneficial. On several occasions I have read a peers blog and realised something I would have never thought of on my own. It has then made me question my own view so I then read more blogs and manage to form a new opinion based on having access to more information.
As I write I find things become clearer in my mind, its almost as if seeing it in black and white makes it appear real. Critical reflection has helped me to discover the thought process I go through in order to come to a conclusion. It has made me focus more deeply on what professional networking really is and how to get the most out of it in the future.
Before embarking on this course I would never have stopped to think about my professional networking. I would have continued to use the internet and read books etc. but I never would have sat down to think what it all actually means and how to make the process work to my advantage. The following quote from the reader on reflective practices really inspired me to question everything I think I know and approach new information with an inquisitive mind … “Reflection involves a focus on uncertainty, perplexing events and exploration without necessarily knowing where it will lead. It is in the interest of learning that writers express their doubts, reveal their lack of understanding and focus on what they do not know”.
I found that in relation to Honey and Mumford’s model I would previously miss out two stages completely. I would have an experience and conclude from that experience. This alone does not make it beneficial! I now know that in order to gain from the experience I also need to review the experience critically and then go on to plan the next steps. This model has helped a lot when getting started on this course and it is one I intend to continue to work with in future. I also think that John Dewey’s approach to education as an experiential action very useful. Reading about his views made me not afraid to make mistakes, to say what I think and then to look at it from different points of view and see if I still thought the same at the end of it. Learning is an ongoing process, ideas grow and evolve and this is what keeps me interested.
Looking at professional networking in this new way has definitely left me thinking differently to at the start of the module. I feel more comfortable to analyse what I’m being told and not to just take it as a fact. I am able to take my experiences and move forward from them knowing that I have learnt something in the process and this to me is invaluable.
I don’t have that many follows of my blog which has made me realise that I need to make more of an effort. I need to ensure that my blog is informative and worthwhile else why should I expect others to take an interest in what I am writing. I know that I need to take time to comment on other peoples work. Although I look at other blogs and think of commenting I never actually take the time to do so. I have found that by not keeping up to date with my blog postings people have already moved on and therefore don’t wish to revisit a topic. This is entirely my own fault, but due to work commitments I have not spent as much time and energy on this module as perhaps others have. This is definitely something I wish to improve on in the future and have decided to set aside at least an hour a day from now on so I don’t get behind with the next module.
Although I haven’t yet embraced the Blogging world fully I do see how sharing ideas and communicating with others can be beneficial. On several occasions I have read a peers blog and realised something I would have never thought of on my own. It has then made me question my own view so I then read more blogs and manage to form a new opinion based on having access to more information.
As I write I find things become clearer in my mind, its almost as if seeing it in black and white makes it appear real. Critical reflection has helped me to discover the thought process I go through in order to come to a conclusion. It has made me focus more deeply on what professional networking really is and how to get the most out of it in the future.
Before embarking on this course I would never have stopped to think about my professional networking. I would have continued to use the internet and read books etc. but I never would have sat down to think what it all actually means and how to make the process work to my advantage. The following quote from the reader on reflective practices really inspired me to question everything I think I know and approach new information with an inquisitive mind … “Reflection involves a focus on uncertainty, perplexing events and exploration without necessarily knowing where it will lead. It is in the interest of learning that writers express their doubts, reveal their lack of understanding and focus on what they do not know”.
I found that in relation to Honey and Mumford’s model I would previously miss out two stages completely. I would have an experience and conclude from that experience. This alone does not make it beneficial! I now know that in order to gain from the experience I also need to review the experience critically and then go on to plan the next steps. This model has helped a lot when getting started on this course and it is one I intend to continue to work with in future. I also think that John Dewey’s approach to education as an experiential action very useful. Reading about his views made me not afraid to make mistakes, to say what I think and then to look at it from different points of view and see if I still thought the same at the end of it. Learning is an ongoing process, ideas grow and evolve and this is what keeps me interested.
Looking at professional networking in this new way has definitely left me thinking differently to at the start of the module. I feel more comfortable to analyse what I’m being told and not to just take it as a fact. I am able to take my experiences and move forward from them knowing that I have learnt something in the process and this to me is invaluable.
Up to date C.V
Curriculum VitaeLISA JAYNE BIRD
Spotlight Number: 0631-3422-0241
Address: Flat 1, 40 Caledonian Road, London, N1 9DT
Tel: 07888222767
Email: lisajbird@googlemail.com
Training:
(2010-2011) BA (Hons) Proessional Practice - Middlesex University
(2007-2010) National Diploma in Musical Theatre - Italia Conti
Academy of Theatre Arts
Height: 5’3”
Hair: Dark Brown Eyes: Blue
DOB: 15/03/88
Qualifications/Skills
- Advanced 2 Modern ISTD
- Advanced 1 Tap ISTD
- Intermediate Ballet IDTA
- Gold Jazz ISTD
- Voice – Mezzo Soprano, Strong Belt
- Accents – RP, Cockney, Standard American
- Foundation Certificate in Stage Fighting
- Competent Horse Rider
- Grade 4 Violin ABRSM
- Grade 4 Piano ABRSM
- Full Driving Licence
Credits whilst training
Year | Type | Role | Production | Company/Venue | Director |
Theatre | |||||
2008 | Variety show | Singer/Dancer | Legends | Italia Conti/New Wimbledon theatre | Bonnie Lythgoe |
2009 | Variety show | Singer/Dancer | Wimbledon at the Shaw | Italia Conti/The Shaw Theatre | Karen Halliday |
2009 | Play | Fabian | Twelfth Night | Complete Works/Avondale Theatre & Touring | David Willoughby |
2009 | Musical | Singer/Dancer | Cabaret | Italia Conti/Avondale Theatre | Karen Halliday & Simon Carr-Minns |
2010 | Musical | Sister Mary Brendan | Nunsense | Italia Conti/Avondale Theatre | Ada Posta |
2010 | Variety show | Singer/Dancer | Count Down | Italia Conti/New Wimbledon theatre | Karen Halliday |
Television | |||||
2009 | Advert | High School Student | Tastified | Pot Noodle | Unilever |
2009 | Advert | TV Spot | Confessions of a Shopaholic Premiere | Leicester Square TV | Elizabeth Toni |
Task 3c - Sources of Information
My 5 most important sources of information can all be sub-categorised under one term…
The Internet!E.g….
Obviously I am aware that there are other very valid sources of information out there, all of which have there place.
If I am looking for a monologue and wish to read the play first, even if its available online I would rather get the book from the library. This is just personal preference but I think many people will agree with me. Another example of this is music. I would rather have the book in my hand than downloading it off the internet. I find it helps to see it as whole when trying to learn its content. I also benefit from gathering information from magazines and newspapers I find them informative and easy to carry around if you are commuting or spend a lot of time waiting to be seen.
The television is a highly valuable source of information for any actor/actress but again many shows can be found on the internet. I find watching other people perform and seeing current trends that are being used very useful when it comes to auditioning. I like to imagine how a well known actress may perform such a role and then use this as a base for my own character.
Meeting with other like-minded people to discuss is also a good way of gathering information, as a performer I tend to be best at reflection-in-action. I can think on my feet so in a heated discussion I have valid points to back up my views. Some people may not have these skills but given time after to think about what was being said they could probably put together a very informative comeback. People like this who prefer reflection-on-action may rather use chat rooms or messaging services such as MSN. This is because they don’t have to post a reply straight away, they can take time to think about what they are trying to get across, which they couldn’t do in a heated personal discussion.
It is all down to the individual, but I find that using varied sources of information keeps it interesting and helps me to learn faster. Yes the internet is usually my first and main port of call, but this doesn’t mean it is the only one!
The Internet!E.g….
- Wikipedia
- Youtube
- MSN
Obviously I am aware that there are other very valid sources of information out there, all of which have there place.
If I am looking for a monologue and wish to read the play first, even if its available online I would rather get the book from the library. This is just personal preference but I think many people will agree with me. Another example of this is music. I would rather have the book in my hand than downloading it off the internet. I find it helps to see it as whole when trying to learn its content. I also benefit from gathering information from magazines and newspapers I find them informative and easy to carry around if you are commuting or spend a lot of time waiting to be seen.
The television is a highly valuable source of information for any actor/actress but again many shows can be found on the internet. I find watching other people perform and seeing current trends that are being used very useful when it comes to auditioning. I like to imagine how a well known actress may perform such a role and then use this as a base for my own character.
Meeting with other like-minded people to discuss is also a good way of gathering information, as a performer I tend to be best at reflection-in-action. I can think on my feet so in a heated discussion I have valid points to back up my views. Some people may not have these skills but given time after to think about what was being said they could probably put together a very informative comeback. People like this who prefer reflection-on-action may rather use chat rooms or messaging services such as MSN. This is because they don’t have to post a reply straight away, they can take time to think about what they are trying to get across, which they couldn’t do in a heated personal discussion.
It is all down to the individual, but I find that using varied sources of information keeps it interesting and helps me to learn faster. Yes the internet is usually my first and main port of call, but this doesn’t mean it is the only one!
Task 3b - Theories Relating to Networking
There are many theories relating to networking that I have discovered over the past few months, most of which I had never even heard of before embarking on this course.
Altman’s ‘Privacy Regulation’ Theory is one which I believe helps a lot in the understanding of why some people are more interested in Professional Networking than others. I think it links in well with the theory of ‘Affiliation’. Each person has a different level of desired contact at any given time. If for example you meet a person for the first time who has been in a crowded environment for most of the day and has had their affiliation needs met, they may not be willing to take the time to get to know you. Their need for privacy will have kicked in and they will find anything you do or say to be a hindrance. In such a case it is important to remember that should you meet the same person again at a different time their attitude towards you may be completely different. This is why I have found that it is always important to chase up your leads. Say for example you had been given a number for a potential casting contact. If you can’t get through at first it may simply be because the person is not in the mood to talk. Obviously to continue calling them that night would be inappropriate, but calling back the next day could often work in your favour.
Social Constructionism is something that also may help me develop my professional networking in the future. It is true that not everybody sees the world in the same way and therefore will have different views and opinions. If we do indeed construct meaning through experiences and not just based on what we have been told then professional networking can be extremely hard. Take having a bad experience with a bicycle as a child. When (as an adult) somebody suggests riding one to work you will have an adverse reaction, the word is automatically linked in your brain to the bad experience you have previously encountered, no matter how long ago it was. It is important when trying to establish a good professional network that we take social constructionism into consideration. Don’t automatically assume that your interpretation of something is going to be the same as that of the person next to you. Listening to what other people have to say will only make your knowledge of that subject grow.
I find the theory of objectivism to be somewhat narrow-minded. It may simply be that my interpretation of the concept is not correct, but I don’t see how an object can have meaning without somebody first associating it with that meaning through experience. I think in the ever-growing world we live in, with access to information so readily available people must surly question this theories validity.
The Theory that knowledge can be ‘half life’ on the other hand is something I find very modern. With everything progressing so fast, it is inevitable that information will change - things we previously believed to be true e.g. the world is flat… are eventually proven to be incorrect. It is important when creating a professional network that you know about the current 'hot topics' for your industry. I now understand that if you don’t do your research regularly you are likely to look a fool. At the end of the day it is true that you are only cheating yourself when you don’t do work you know you will benefit from.
Altman’s ‘Privacy Regulation’ Theory is one which I believe helps a lot in the understanding of why some people are more interested in Professional Networking than others. I think it links in well with the theory of ‘Affiliation’. Each person has a different level of desired contact at any given time. If for example you meet a person for the first time who has been in a crowded environment for most of the day and has had their affiliation needs met, they may not be willing to take the time to get to know you. Their need for privacy will have kicked in and they will find anything you do or say to be a hindrance. In such a case it is important to remember that should you meet the same person again at a different time their attitude towards you may be completely different. This is why I have found that it is always important to chase up your leads. Say for example you had been given a number for a potential casting contact. If you can’t get through at first it may simply be because the person is not in the mood to talk. Obviously to continue calling them that night would be inappropriate, but calling back the next day could often work in your favour.
Social Constructionism is something that also may help me develop my professional networking in the future. It is true that not everybody sees the world in the same way and therefore will have different views and opinions. If we do indeed construct meaning through experiences and not just based on what we have been told then professional networking can be extremely hard. Take having a bad experience with a bicycle as a child. When (as an adult) somebody suggests riding one to work you will have an adverse reaction, the word is automatically linked in your brain to the bad experience you have previously encountered, no matter how long ago it was. It is important when trying to establish a good professional network that we take social constructionism into consideration. Don’t automatically assume that your interpretation of something is going to be the same as that of the person next to you. Listening to what other people have to say will only make your knowledge of that subject grow.
I find the theory of objectivism to be somewhat narrow-minded. It may simply be that my interpretation of the concept is not correct, but I don’t see how an object can have meaning without somebody first associating it with that meaning through experience. I think in the ever-growing world we live in, with access to information so readily available people must surly question this theories validity.
The Theory that knowledge can be ‘half life’ on the other hand is something I find very modern. With everything progressing so fast, it is inevitable that information will change - things we previously believed to be true e.g. the world is flat… are eventually proven to be incorrect. It is important when creating a professional network that you know about the current 'hot topics' for your industry. I now understand that if you don’t do your research regularly you are likely to look a fool. At the end of the day it is true that you are only cheating yourself when you don’t do work you know you will benefit from.
Monday, 3 January 2011
Task 3a - Current Networks:
There are many tools that I currently use in order to engage my professional network such as:
As described in the course reader a Professional Network is ‘a work related community held together by either close working affiliation or more distant but common work interests or needs’. Therefore to be a Networked Professional it is important to become an active part of as many of those communities as possible.
Everyone who is trying to network will have a need, whether it be to find a job, to find and employee or even to gain affiliation. I find the theory of affiliation to be one of great interest. The fact that professional networking may simply be another way of meeting our affiliation needs could be beneficial, at least we know that the people we are networking with need something from us as well as the other way around.
My ideal Network would consist of as many people as possible that I could keep up to date with and learn from. I would also like to think that I would also be able to help them in some way too. Being in contact with up and coming and established producers, directors, agents etc. could be a really good way of getting a foot in the door when an audition opportunity arises. In order to create this dream network I need to start getting in contact with people, I need to send out copies of my C.V and headshot, include links to my Flickr page and Blog. I need to put myself out there. If nobody knows who you are then how can you expect them to employ you!
I have only been out of college for a few months but I have already learnt that jobs don’t come looking for you, you have to put yourself out there and make yourself seen or you’ll simply slip off the radar.
I need to research into getting some business cards printed, I think this is the next step in my professional networking. Handing out your email address on a bit of scrap paper makes you look unorganised and unreliable. You have to promote yourselves how you want to be seen, even though I don’t feel I have much to write on a business card I still think it would be an attribute to my professional self.
Another thing I would like to do is to set up a Blog, similar to the one I have created for this course but dedicated to the work I have done so far. I think this would be particularly useful as then anybody who wants to see what I am capable of will have an easy link to follow. I understand now that networking is an essential part of being a successful performer and I intend to work hard at promoting myself as a well networked professional in order to develop my career and my knowledge of the industry I wish to be a part of.
- Computer - I use many web 2.0 tools on my computer including: Facebook, Wikipedia, Flickr, Youtube and Blogs. Since I started this course I have learnt to embrace these further by developing my knowledge of what is accessible to me. I would have never thought of promoting myself with a Blog before for example, but now I know the power that such a web page can have and I definitely think it is a valid networking tool.
- My Blackberry - I use this when I’m out and about, being away from my computer doesn’t mean that I can’t keep up to date with new information coming in. My email account and Facebook profile are both synced in with my phone and get automatically updated. More obviously than this I use my phone to call people such as work colleagues and friends in order to stay on top of new jobs available.
- Books - I know it may sound old fashioned but I still like to use specialist books to find certain information. Although it is probably all available on the internet I find books such as ‘The Actors Yearbook’, ‘Contacts’, and ‘The Actors Guide to Getting Work’ very useful. I like to have a hard copy so I can go through and make notes, highlighting important information. I am a visual learner so having something physical such as a book helps as a reminder when trying to keep on top of my correspondence.
- Friends - I find one of the best ways of meeting new contacts is through ones I already have. Meeting new contacts through parties and social gatherings is really useful as it is so much more personal than any other form of contact. Getting to meet someone in person means they are much more likely to remember me and this is useful if they hear of any jobs in future which I may be suitable for.
As described in the course reader a Professional Network is ‘a work related community held together by either close working affiliation or more distant but common work interests or needs’. Therefore to be a Networked Professional it is important to become an active part of as many of those communities as possible.
Everyone who is trying to network will have a need, whether it be to find a job, to find and employee or even to gain affiliation. I find the theory of affiliation to be one of great interest. The fact that professional networking may simply be another way of meeting our affiliation needs could be beneficial, at least we know that the people we are networking with need something from us as well as the other way around.
My ideal Network would consist of as many people as possible that I could keep up to date with and learn from. I would also like to think that I would also be able to help them in some way too. Being in contact with up and coming and established producers, directors, agents etc. could be a really good way of getting a foot in the door when an audition opportunity arises. In order to create this dream network I need to start getting in contact with people, I need to send out copies of my C.V and headshot, include links to my Flickr page and Blog. I need to put myself out there. If nobody knows who you are then how can you expect them to employ you!
I have only been out of college for a few months but I have already learnt that jobs don’t come looking for you, you have to put yourself out there and make yourself seen or you’ll simply slip off the radar.
I need to research into getting some business cards printed, I think this is the next step in my professional networking. Handing out your email address on a bit of scrap paper makes you look unorganised and unreliable. You have to promote yourselves how you want to be seen, even though I don’t feel I have much to write on a business card I still think it would be an attribute to my professional self.
Another thing I would like to do is to set up a Blog, similar to the one I have created for this course but dedicated to the work I have done so far. I think this would be particularly useful as then anybody who wants to see what I am capable of will have an easy link to follow. I understand now that networking is an essential part of being a successful performer and I intend to work hard at promoting myself as a well networked professional in order to develop my career and my knowledge of the industry I wish to be a part of.
Poetry Challenge
I have finally had a chance to upload my poems to my blog and I hope you like them. I found that taking the time out to do this each night for a week was very effective as it acted as a summary for me to develop in my full journal. I don't think I would use it instead of a journal as I don't think I am able to encompass all my emotion into one poem, but it was fun to do and I think it is something I shall continue to play with and hopefully improve upon in the future.
Poem 5:
Listen
Fear
Heartbeat going faster
Nervous
Laughter
Your name will be called after
Hopes
Dreams
What more can we live for
No thanks...
Not this time...
There will always be one more
Fear
Heartbeat going faster
Nervous
Laughter
Your name will be called after
Hopes
Dreams
What more can we live for
No thanks...
Not this time...
There will always be one more
Poem 4:
Busy bar no time to worry
Customers need serving in a hurry
Can't think of fame or my name in lights
Just got to focus on getting through the night
Dreams pushed aside but never forgotten
Always there waiting at the bottom
Your moment will come your moment to shine
But until that point when are we calling time?!
Customers need serving in a hurry
Can't think of fame or my name in lights
Just got to focus on getting through the night
Dreams pushed aside but never forgotten
Always there waiting at the bottom
Your moment will come your moment to shine
But until that point when are we calling time?!
Poem 3:
Missing college and all my friends
But new experiences never end
Finding time to stay in touch
With all the will in the world there isn't much
A phonecall here a message there
Is it enough to show we care
Everyones busy their new lives just started
It's just a shame that we'v been parted
But new experiences never end
Finding time to stay in touch
With all the will in the world there isn't much
A phonecall here a message there
Is it enough to show we care
Everyones busy their new lives just started
It's just a shame that we'v been parted
Poem 2:
Always rushing no time for fuss
I'd brush my hair but i'd miss the bus
Always rushing organisation pushed aside
I've got so much to do and nowhere to hide
London is busy everyone running
They don't look up to see what's coming
Open your eyes the answers are there
Open your eyes no need to stare
Always rushing no time for a fuss
Look around you're just one of us...
I'd brush my hair but i'd miss the bus
Always rushing organisation pushed aside
I've got so much to do and nowhere to hide
London is busy everyone running
They don't look up to see what's coming
Open your eyes the answers are there
Open your eyes no need to stare
Always rushing no time for a fuss
Look around you're just one of us...
Poem 1:
Time goes by tick followed tock
I try to concentrate but all I hear is the clock
Deadlines to meet work to be done
All I want is a little fun
Auditions I find but no time to go
Rent has to be paid soon so money must flow
Time goes by tick followed tock
I try to concentrate but all i hear is the clock!
I try to concentrate but all I hear is the clock
Deadlines to meet work to be done
All I want is a little fun
Auditions I find but no time to go
Rent has to be paid soon so money must flow
Time goes by tick followed tock
I try to concentrate but all i hear is the clock!
Task 2d - Inquiry:
I am enthusiastic about every aspect of performing, it is such a fast genre that there is always something else to learn. I particularly love the relationship between the performer and the audience and I find the ability for a performer to change the outlook of an audience member to be fascinating! Specifically I find comedy acting particularly inspiring. There is so much that goes into being a good comedy actor and I think it is a never ending learning curve that I wish to pursue for a long time.
In order to develop as an actress I need to keep up to date with the ever changing trends of the industry and it makes me angry that this is not always an option due to insufficient funds. I think that more support should be given to young people going into the performing arts industry by the government but instead they are taking it away. I think every young person trying to get a break in this industry will feel the financial strain, it is hard to hold down a job whilst auditioning as things come up to quickly and time off cant always be planned. This is why teaching can be a great way to earn some extra cash.
I love teaching and performing and I think that being able to impart your knowledge on to others is the most rewarding feeling. I think being in this profession, although uncertain at times, has a lot of positive aspects. I hate being stuck in one place, I get bored easily and I love meeting new people. I find although working on short contracts can be financially stressful it makes you more determined to be at the top of your game. There is no time to rest on your laurels, the next job is never guaranteed and although this is a scary prospect it is also an exciting one, as one door closes another is sure to open.
I really admire the actress Lynda Bellingham, she went to the same high school as me and I understand how difficult it is to study at an academic school when you are more artistic. She was also adopted at a young age and I think so often people use negative aspects from there past to justify wasting there life away. Lynda instead has looked on it as a positive thing and has worked hard to achieve outstanding things. Other actresses I admire include Dame Judi Dench and Jennifer Aniston. I think that Judi Dench’s ability to perform so brilliantly on both stage and television is remarkable. She knows how to work a camera and an audience and to get the same reaction from each. I admire her for being able to raise her daughter whilst remaining in the public eye. You can tell that acting is what she loves as even now when she cant possibly need the money she still continues to work.
Jennifer Aniston is both funny and intelligent, she knows how to keep a good public image even through the break-up of her marriage. She continues to produce excellent movies such as ‘The Break-Up’ and ‘ The Bounty Hunter’ but I think that ‘Friends’ really showed her to the best of her comic ability.
There is lots that I don’t understand, but I don’t think that this is necessarily a bad thing. It gives me the desire to continue learning and to continue to further develop as an artist. If you understood everything about your profession then it would no longer be exciting or worthwhile. I think one of the greatest inspirations I have had in my career was my acting improvisation teacher. An elderly gentleman he had seen the world and knew the industry back to front. He was never scared to say what he thought and always treated us students as young performers. He taught me to not be afraid of who you are and not to care what other people think of you. I really owe a lot to him and I feel so much more comfortable on stage thanks to him.
As I have previously stated I love to learn new things and I think this is how we continue to grow as people and performers. I cant pinpoint one event that has made me want to learn more about my industry as everything I experience inflicts such a feeling. Every show I take part in, every audition I go to makes me want to do more and I think that this course is helping me to understand how to make the most out of every opportunity I get.
Reading back over this I think a good line of enquiry to start with is how what people see on stage can effect them emotionally. If I can start to understand what it is that connects people to something that they know is not real then I think my skills as an actress will grow significantly.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jennifer_Aniston http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judi_Dench http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lynda_Bellingham
In order to develop as an actress I need to keep up to date with the ever changing trends of the industry and it makes me angry that this is not always an option due to insufficient funds. I think that more support should be given to young people going into the performing arts industry by the government but instead they are taking it away. I think every young person trying to get a break in this industry will feel the financial strain, it is hard to hold down a job whilst auditioning as things come up to quickly and time off cant always be planned. This is why teaching can be a great way to earn some extra cash.
I love teaching and performing and I think that being able to impart your knowledge on to others is the most rewarding feeling. I think being in this profession, although uncertain at times, has a lot of positive aspects. I hate being stuck in one place, I get bored easily and I love meeting new people. I find although working on short contracts can be financially stressful it makes you more determined to be at the top of your game. There is no time to rest on your laurels, the next job is never guaranteed and although this is a scary prospect it is also an exciting one, as one door closes another is sure to open.
I really admire the actress Lynda Bellingham, she went to the same high school as me and I understand how difficult it is to study at an academic school when you are more artistic. She was also adopted at a young age and I think so often people use negative aspects from there past to justify wasting there life away. Lynda instead has looked on it as a positive thing and has worked hard to achieve outstanding things. Other actresses I admire include Dame Judi Dench and Jennifer Aniston. I think that Judi Dench’s ability to perform so brilliantly on both stage and television is remarkable. She knows how to work a camera and an audience and to get the same reaction from each. I admire her for being able to raise her daughter whilst remaining in the public eye. You can tell that acting is what she loves as even now when she cant possibly need the money she still continues to work.
Jennifer Aniston is both funny and intelligent, she knows how to keep a good public image even through the break-up of her marriage. She continues to produce excellent movies such as ‘The Break-Up’ and ‘ The Bounty Hunter’ but I think that ‘Friends’ really showed her to the best of her comic ability.
There is lots that I don’t understand, but I don’t think that this is necessarily a bad thing. It gives me the desire to continue learning and to continue to further develop as an artist. If you understood everything about your profession then it would no longer be exciting or worthwhile. I think one of the greatest inspirations I have had in my career was my acting improvisation teacher. An elderly gentleman he had seen the world and knew the industry back to front. He was never scared to say what he thought and always treated us students as young performers. He taught me to not be afraid of who you are and not to care what other people think of you. I really owe a lot to him and I feel so much more comfortable on stage thanks to him.
As I have previously stated I love to learn new things and I think this is how we continue to grow as people and performers. I cant pinpoint one event that has made me want to learn more about my industry as everything I experience inflicts such a feeling. Every show I take part in, every audition I go to makes me want to do more and I think that this course is helping me to understand how to make the most out of every opportunity I get.
Reading back over this I think a good line of enquiry to start with is how what people see on stage can effect them emotionally. If I can start to understand what it is that connects people to something that they know is not real then I think my skills as an actress will grow significantly.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jennifer_Aniston http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judi_Dench http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lynda_Bellingham
Sunday, 2 January 2011
Journal Writing Experience:
Having done the below Journal writing task I have found it to be very beneficial. The journals that I have kept previous to this have not been as detailed and looking back I can see they are missing key information. In order for me to start learning from my experiences I need to ensure that I am reflecting on them in detail.
“Understanding you don’t know something is important because it is the first stage of learning, seeing something is missing” - this quote taken from the Reflective Practices Reader is one that has helped me the most. I have always believed that not knowing should be seen as a downfall but now I see that if you are aware you don’t know something and can admit this and ask for help, then it is easily solved. I am not good at keeping journals or at least I haven’t been in the past. I now know that this is because I was simply writing without purpose, I was writing because I was told to not because I wanted to. Seeing how beneficial it can be to my development as a professional as made me more aware of the importance of reflection in practice. Although as a performer most of the time I need to ‘reflect in action’ rather than ‘reflect on action’ (Donald Schon) the later does have its place. Granted in an audition if I forget a step I need to make it up on the spot, but this doesn’t mean that later that evening writing a reflective journal about the experience wouldn’t be beneficial.
I find the concept of ‘Tacit Knowledge’ to be one of great interest. I have always been taught that if you have the correct language at your disposal it is easy to communicate your thought with others. I am now open to the thought that this might not be the case. Muscle memory for a dancer is essential and it cannot be translated easily into words. Some of the best dancers make the worst teachers as they simply can’t cant translate what they know into something others will understand. When they dance it is an unconscious process and breaking it down and thinking about what they’re doing isn’t always possible.
I found the ’List’ section of my journal to be of most benefit, simply listing my feelings as they came into my head was quick and easy and gave me something to go back and expand on later in my journal. I am going to take this with me into further journals along with the ‘Themes’ section, which I also found a great help. Being able to see where a certain event fits in not only with your day, week, month or year, it was useful to see where I was in my life as a whole. How I was feeling, who I had to support me and who was bringing me down. I think these are all things that will help be learn from my experiences and grow as a professional. I cant wait to try out other forms of reflective writing such as interpreting my thoughts as poetry, I think I will find this useful as it should add an element of fun to an otherwise challenging task.
“Understanding you don’t know something is important because it is the first stage of learning, seeing something is missing” - this quote taken from the Reflective Practices Reader is one that has helped me the most. I have always believed that not knowing should be seen as a downfall but now I see that if you are aware you don’t know something and can admit this and ask for help, then it is easily solved. I am not good at keeping journals or at least I haven’t been in the past. I now know that this is because I was simply writing without purpose, I was writing because I was told to not because I wanted to. Seeing how beneficial it can be to my development as a professional as made me more aware of the importance of reflection in practice. Although as a performer most of the time I need to ‘reflect in action’ rather than ‘reflect on action’ (Donald Schon) the later does have its place. Granted in an audition if I forget a step I need to make it up on the spot, but this doesn’t mean that later that evening writing a reflective journal about the experience wouldn’t be beneficial.
I find the concept of ‘Tacit Knowledge’ to be one of great interest. I have always been taught that if you have the correct language at your disposal it is easy to communicate your thought with others. I am now open to the thought that this might not be the case. Muscle memory for a dancer is essential and it cannot be translated easily into words. Some of the best dancers make the worst teachers as they simply can’t cant translate what they know into something others will understand. When they dance it is an unconscious process and breaking it down and thinking about what they’re doing isn’t always possible.
I found the ’List’ section of my journal to be of most benefit, simply listing my feelings as they came into my head was quick and easy and gave me something to go back and expand on later in my journal. I am going to take this with me into further journals along with the ‘Themes’ section, which I also found a great help. Being able to see where a certain event fits in not only with your day, week, month or year, it was useful to see where I was in my life as a whole. How I was feeling, who I had to support me and who was bringing me down. I think these are all things that will help be learn from my experiences and grow as a professional. I cant wait to try out other forms of reflective writing such as interpreting my thoughts as poetry, I think I will find this useful as it should add an element of fun to an otherwise challenging task.
Task 2b - Reflective Writing:
Description:
On Thursday 2nd of December I went to watch my friend perform at a stand up comedy show at
Leicester Square Theatre.
Initial Reflection: At first I was apprehensive I have never been to a live comedy show before, but from watching shows on the television I am aware that if the audience don’t take to you the whole experience can be a nightmare. I was nervous for my friend as it was a very small venue with no stage or lighting to hide you from the audience you were literally face to face with your judges! Two of my friends performed that night along with one of my old teachers and although they were all excellent there were a few awkward hesitations and moments of uncertainty that I don’t know how well I would have handled had it been me up there instead.. I was there to support my friends and was therefore open minded, but it had been a long day and I had travelled two hours to see the show, I also knew I had to get up at 6AM the next day to go to work so I must admit I was critical of other acts and resented having to sit through the whole show as my friend was almost one of the last acts on.
List:
I was nervous as to how the rest of the audience would respond to them and therefore protective over them against any criticisms that may come their way.
On this occasion I wasn’t performing and it felt weird. Whenever I go to see a show I always wish I could be up there with them performing. It has made me think a lot about how much I miss college and having the opportunity to act sing and dance everyday. I know now that I need to find a regular outlet for my creativity even in between performing jobs.
Evaluation: I learnt a lot from the experience, it really is true that when you are performing confidence is key. When people go to see a show they don’t want to feel nervous that you might not hit the ‘money’ note or that you might forget the next line. This makes the audience feel uncomfortable and they are not able to relax. If you have paid to see a performance of any kind you want to be able to sit back and view with ease, not be sat on the edge of your seat hoping they don’t make a mistake. This is where confidence comes in, even if you know exactly what you are doing and are capable of achieving if you don’t believe in yourself how can you ever expect anyone else to.
At one point one of the artists performing forget his lines. Although this could have been a disaster he managed to cover it up well thinking on is feet to correct it showing ‘Reflection in Action’. I think this is an essential skill for any performer as there is no time to revisit the problem, it has to be fixed there and then else it could cost you your job.
What If? What could have happened … now there is a question! Absolutely anything could have happened. I would have hated it if one of my friends had forgotten their lines or felt so uncomfortable that they couldn’t complete there set. I know the experience wouldn’t have been happening to me but when it is someone you are close to it can be just as bad!
In a dream world I would have had something up my sleeve that I could have performed and would have had the courage to throw myself into that situation without any preparation and would have been a success!
Another View: I have chosen to view the day through the eyes of the Director of the show…
Today was a great success, at first I was nervous as it is always hard to know how new acts will go down with the audience but everyone was well received. This isn’t the first comedy night I have bought to this theatre but each time I use different acts and it is sometimes there first time at performing a stand-up show in front of a paying audience. Although I chose acts that I have every believe in it is still not certain that they wont freeze when put on the spot, so I am never able to fully relax when watching the show. I think a key part of performance is being able to think on your feet. It is inevitable that things will go wrong and I cant help them to put it right. I have to put all my faith in the acts that should the situation arise they will be able to correct themselves without the audience realising.
Themes: I valued the opportunity to be there to support my friends, to watch them grow as performers. After training together daily for three years you form a very close bond and it is important to continue that into your professional career. There will be many people out there just waiting to bring you down so having your friends there to pick you back up is of utmost importance!
I think if I was to do anything differently next time as a spectator it would simply to be more enthusiastic. As I was tired and itching to get to bed I didn’t feel I was as supportive in the audience participation as I could have been which may have had a negative effect on the performer themselves. It may have come across as I wasn’t enjoying the show when really I was just tired.
Over the rest of December I am working long shifts and commuting in and out of London leaving no time to socialise at all. This evening has been an opportunity to enjoy myself in the middle of a busy working month and as it is so rare at the moment I really appreciate it. Although it has been a stressful part of my week having to get into London and back out in a short space of time, I think I will look back at it as a highlight of the month that otherwise would be solely dedicated to work.
It has made me question why I have not yet been able to get a job performing and whether I am going about the situation in the correct manor. After graduation in July with a lot of debt I decided to go back to an office job during the day and waitressing in the evening as I knew it was guaranteed income and that is what I needed to pay off my debts. Although I am working it is not in a job I like and I know that in January I will be able to pursue my performing but in the meantime I feel like I’m missing out. I have a good group of friends around who are supporting me and getting to see them fulfil their dreams makes me all the more determined to fulfil mine!
On Thursday 2nd of December I went to watch my friend perform at a stand up comedy show at
Leicester Square Theatre.
Initial Reflection: At first I was apprehensive I have never been to a live comedy show before, but from watching shows on the television I am aware that if the audience don’t take to you the whole experience can be a nightmare. I was nervous for my friend as it was a very small venue with no stage or lighting to hide you from the audience you were literally face to face with your judges! Two of my friends performed that night along with one of my old teachers and although they were all excellent there were a few awkward hesitations and moments of uncertainty that I don’t know how well I would have handled had it been me up there instead.. I was there to support my friends and was therefore open minded, but it had been a long day and I had travelled two hours to see the show, I also knew I had to get up at 6AM the next day to go to work so I must admit I was critical of other acts and resented having to sit through the whole show as my friend was almost one of the last acts on.
List:
- Stressful
- Tired
- Anxious
- Excited
- Happy
- Reminiscent
- Enthusiastic
- Ambitious
- Proud
- Nervous
- Protective
I was nervous as to how the rest of the audience would respond to them and therefore protective over them against any criticisms that may come their way.
On this occasion I wasn’t performing and it felt weird. Whenever I go to see a show I always wish I could be up there with them performing. It has made me think a lot about how much I miss college and having the opportunity to act sing and dance everyday. I know now that I need to find a regular outlet for my creativity even in between performing jobs.
Evaluation: I learnt a lot from the experience, it really is true that when you are performing confidence is key. When people go to see a show they don’t want to feel nervous that you might not hit the ‘money’ note or that you might forget the next line. This makes the audience feel uncomfortable and they are not able to relax. If you have paid to see a performance of any kind you want to be able to sit back and view with ease, not be sat on the edge of your seat hoping they don’t make a mistake. This is where confidence comes in, even if you know exactly what you are doing and are capable of achieving if you don’t believe in yourself how can you ever expect anyone else to.
At one point one of the artists performing forget his lines. Although this could have been a disaster he managed to cover it up well thinking on is feet to correct it showing ‘Reflection in Action’. I think this is an essential skill for any performer as there is no time to revisit the problem, it has to be fixed there and then else it could cost you your job.
What If? What could have happened … now there is a question! Absolutely anything could have happened. I would have hated it if one of my friends had forgotten their lines or felt so uncomfortable that they couldn’t complete there set. I know the experience wouldn’t have been happening to me but when it is someone you are close to it can be just as bad!
In a dream world I would have had something up my sleeve that I could have performed and would have had the courage to throw myself into that situation without any preparation and would have been a success!
Another View: I have chosen to view the day through the eyes of the Director of the show…
Today was a great success, at first I was nervous as it is always hard to know how new acts will go down with the audience but everyone was well received. This isn’t the first comedy night I have bought to this theatre but each time I use different acts and it is sometimes there first time at performing a stand-up show in front of a paying audience. Although I chose acts that I have every believe in it is still not certain that they wont freeze when put on the spot, so I am never able to fully relax when watching the show. I think a key part of performance is being able to think on your feet. It is inevitable that things will go wrong and I cant help them to put it right. I have to put all my faith in the acts that should the situation arise they will be able to correct themselves without the audience realising.
Themes: I valued the opportunity to be there to support my friends, to watch them grow as performers. After training together daily for three years you form a very close bond and it is important to continue that into your professional career. There will be many people out there just waiting to bring you down so having your friends there to pick you back up is of utmost importance!
I think if I was to do anything differently next time as a spectator it would simply to be more enthusiastic. As I was tired and itching to get to bed I didn’t feel I was as supportive in the audience participation as I could have been which may have had a negative effect on the performer themselves. It may have come across as I wasn’t enjoying the show when really I was just tired.
Over the rest of December I am working long shifts and commuting in and out of London leaving no time to socialise at all. This evening has been an opportunity to enjoy myself in the middle of a busy working month and as it is so rare at the moment I really appreciate it. Although it has been a stressful part of my week having to get into London and back out in a short space of time, I think I will look back at it as a highlight of the month that otherwise would be solely dedicated to work.
It has made me question why I have not yet been able to get a job performing and whether I am going about the situation in the correct manor. After graduation in July with a lot of debt I decided to go back to an office job during the day and waitressing in the evening as I knew it was guaranteed income and that is what I needed to pay off my debts. Although I am working it is not in a job I like and I know that in January I will be able to pursue my performing but in the meantime I feel like I’m missing out. I have a good group of friends around who are supporting me and getting to see them fulfil their dreams makes me all the more determined to fulfil mine!
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