STOP THE WORLD! I WANT TO ACT!

You know as well as I do that the world is not going to stop spinning so that you can work on becoming a better actor, right? And you also know that other actors are out there working consistently on strengthening their skills. They are in class, attending workshops, working on their materials and their actor business. They aren’t waiting UNTIL THEY GET AN AUDITION to suddenly kick into high gear. They know it takes consistent attention to stay in the game and move steadily toward their goals and dreams.

Maybe you were one of the lucky ones. You had a few years in a conservatory or film school that allowed you to focus primarily on what it means to be an actor and how to develop your craft with minimal interference from the non-acting world. Ah, the luxury of living with the single focus of actor training! Now, things just aren’t the same. The ” real world” and it’s competing  responsibilities keep throwing you off balance. You “mean” to read more plays/screenplays. You ” know” you’d feel more confident and prepared if you were in a weekly acting class. You” try” to stay informed and keep your headshots current.
Life seems to get in the way. Yes, I know there are bills to pay, perhaps tests to study for, groceries to earn and to eat. And you don’t have an endless supply of cash. What are you to do?

 It starts with the power of decision and the commitment to do something every day toward our growth as artists and actors.  I know it’s possible because I am living it. Not without a good dose of trying and failing, I might add. Sometimes I forget to decide!
The good news is that it doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, it’s better if it’s not. A simple action every day.
“Do or do not, there is no try” – Yoda
KISS.  Keep it simple, sweetie.
A journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step.
How do you eat an elephant? A bite at a time. ( Ok, that makes my stomach turn, but you get the idea.)
You KNOW these things.  There is surprising POWER in deciding to take your dreams seriously. Each step you take toward your dreams brings more energy, vitality and enthusiasm to propel you forward on the journey!

Invest in the power of decision and priority. ( Don’t roll your eyes, you know I am right about this!)

Instead of waiting until you FEEL LIKE IT, DECIDE to ACT whether you feel like it or not.   Remember, it’s not the grand gestures but the daily small steps that build new habits and move us forward.

Nibble on that elephant. ( if you must)

Take that baby step. It’s important!

Do, not try.

Keep it simple, sweetie.

You may find yourself feeling encouraged and enlivened.

And the world can keep on spinning because you are acting on your  dreams every day.

Keep acting in joy, gang!

Mary

Acting in Joy (Thoughts on The Art and Soul of Acting Blog)

A good friend of mine encouraged me to begin this blog by explaining to you why it is that I decided to launch my website and small business, The Art and Soul of Acting.  “People need to know who you are at your core. What it is you want to do, what you care about and why.”  Nothing like your attorney friends to get you straight to the point!  Thanks, Lee.

As an actor myself, and one who has worked with and taught actors of all ages for years, I’ve seen a lot of unhealthy approaches to working with actors and a lot of damage done.  Actors have a deep desire to give of themselves and share what is most important to them.  Acting requires a vital vulnerablity and tremendous courage. I honor and appreciate that deep commitment and treat it with respect.  I believe it is crucial to build relationships of trust with my students. I want the very best for each of them and I believe they can have it.

My goal is to provide a safe and nurturing space to explore and grow as an actor and artist. I am passionate about assisting actors to connect to their own innate and unique intelligence, spirit, creativity and power.   For those who choose to pursue acting as a career,  I provide a healthy balance of  both developing the students’ unique artistry while also assisting them with goal-setting and the development of their actor business.    I also wanted to provide a space for non-actors to reclaim their creativity, confidence and passion for living utilizing many of the imaginative and discerning skills of the actor and artist.

The Art and Soul of Acting is a place to be inspired, refreshed, encouraged, challenged and motivated!  A  supportive community that believes in the beauty and ability of every person.  It is also a community resource for actors and people who care about actors.  The Art and Soul of Acting teaches that if we are to live vibrantly and intentionally into the life of our dreams for ourselves and our community, we must act!   “Leap and the net will appear!”

I believe we can act in joy. I hope you will want to come along for the ride. I think the time is ripe to be who you are and live into the life you love!

Peace and joy!

Mary

P.S.  It takes a village to launch a website.  Thank you, friends and family!