Thursday, April 26, 2018

Energy!!!!- Trust the Vibes You Get...Energy Doesn't Lie

Wow! I haven't written in almost 3 years.  It is so hard to believe.  Many times I found myself wanting to write, but couldn't find the ENERGY to just do it.  As I reflect with my energetic cup of coffee in a coffee shoppe in Astoria, NY, I realize that in the time since my last post, I have completed my Master's degree in Educational Theatre, created an original work about the impact of theatre and identity, worked on a pilot education program for a Broadway show, taught probably over 450 NYC actors and students, auditioned for some major television shows filming in New York, filmed a commercial, and got engaged!  All that definitely took some energy. 

So here we are with enough energy to write today. This spring weather is definitely giving me life and energy.   

Energy, energy, energy! Maybe if we say it three times, it will appear like Beetlejuice.  Energy surrounds us every single moment of our day.  There is always an ebb and flow to our lives, especially as artists.  Many times actors and artists do not have stability.  Some artists thrive on this and gain some energy from the constant movement.  We are running from audition to audition, contract to contract, day job to day job and we have to keep our energy up. 

For many of us, I think we are constantly asking the question:

How are we expected to do all of this?

For myself, as a teacher, artist, and actor, I like to trust the energy in my gut or my soul.  I think deep down, we as humans know how to do it all and what small steps to take.  Sometimes we need a little guidance and that is why a good circle surrounding you is important in this business.  As an actor, I really try to ground myself in my work.  By planting myself into the ground and my work, I find that the Earth around me supplies the energy.  I know this sounds a little hippie dippy, but I truly believe simplicity is sometimes the key to success.  For me, a simple breath and being present in the moment gives me the energy to succeed.   (Confession--I am guilty of sometimes neglecting being present and discovered this through a lot of self reflection.) 

How many times do you obsess over the latest tweet, or game on your phone rather than looking up at what the world has to offer?  Sometimes, I think challenging yourself is good.  It creates a new energy in your life.   My challenge for myself is to find a new form of social energy for half the day that doesn't involve my phone or social media.  Movies, sports, writing, singing, who knows what?!

So as I take another sip of my coffee, I think about how actors and people use energy.  Many times directors will say, "I need more energy."  What does this mean to you and your own work?

As we look at the big picture, where are you placing your own energy? 

I think it is important to be a full performer which means a person and an artist.  Is there a project that your gut is telling you to pursue? Is there a person you haven't connected with?  Is there negative energy with a friend or relative that needs space in order for you to recharge in order to gain some positive energy? Is there a first date that sparks that love energy? 

Take five minutes now to listen to the energy surrounding you.  Positive and negative.  Make note it and see where this energy is trying to lead you.  Momentum is an amazing aspect of the artist's journey, and I believe moving, smiling, and healing is good for the soul. This allows us to empathize with others and the characters we get to create.  In the end, good vibes, positive energy, and amazing souls are all I want around me.  The energy I have in this moment is telling me I am heading in the right direction. 

As always, Live for Today, Laugh Always, and Love this Moment!

Get it, live it, book it, and love it!

Patty G.