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Bonnie L. Vorenberg
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Sometimes finding the balance between work and fun is difficult in Senior Theatre. We get so immersed in creating a performance that we forget that it's got to be fun.
One of the reasons I love classes is because they are so entertaining for both the students and for me, the teacher. When you're in the 'process' part of theatre, everything is right, no answers are wrong. Students, of all ability and skill levels, progress together, fully in the moment.
Things change when you focus on 'product.' It's as if the "let's put on a play" wallops the group with new goals. Suddenly, the more skilled actors get more attention and you begin to hear the old adage, "There are no small roles, only small actors!"It's a flurry of activity, the pace picks up as the show dates loom.
There are many reasons why the fun gets obscured. Perhaps the material is too difficult. Perhaps there hasn't been enough time for the group to coalesce into a tight esprit de corps. Whatever the reason, if it's not fun, actors may not want to participate in the next show. Everyone loses.
So, balance work and pleasure. Pause and make sure that both classes and rehearsals are fun. Laugh, enjoy, and share in the creative spirit. If you keep a light atmosphere, a happier cast will produce a better show for a more satisfied audience.
Yours in theatre,
Bonnie Vorenberg
ArtAge President
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