Ok guys and girls, as we're approaching the final hurdle of module 1,how's everyone feeling?
I think we should all be very proud of ourselves. Juggling full time employment and university work this way takes a great deal of discipline. I know I have certainly begrudged the commitment some times, but hopefully I'll be able to look back and laugh this time next year...or be bald and stressed to the eyeballs!
I must admit I often wonder, Is anyone really listening. Did I just spend my whole Sunday researching and writing away just put some words on a website that will never be read? I guess we all need to get into the habit of checking the blogs more and making comments more, or maybe you all do and I'm totally wrong.
I have noticed that I tend to switch off when trying to wade through huge chucks of text (which is exactly how my work is laid out!) note to self, be more creative next term!
But for now good luck on the essays.... If anyone wants to discuss/share ideas, ask each other questions or give each other feedback my email is kt_hurley@yahoo.com
As they say in Greek καληνύχτα (goodnight)
P.s. I'm not Greek :)
Tuesday, 30 April 2013
Sunday, 28 April 2013
Task 3C Sources of Information
After reflecting on the ways that I learn, obtain, retain and source information I have decided for me THEE most important source for me is MY PROFESSIONAL NETWORK.
If I think about my day to day practice it comes into play time and again. Within my professional network are...
Colleagues: When I am struggling finding resources, want an objective point of view on a lesson plan, need support in methods of delivering a lesson, this is my first point of call. I've mentioned before about sharing practice, and to me this is the most organic way to do so.
Friends: This refers mainly to friends working within the same profession. As above this is a great source to share practice but also less formal discussions can often lead to exciting developments for both parties and opportunities to collaborate.
BAPP Students: As I said, I use the blogs as a point of reference to source information for my degree work.
WORKSHOPS AND CLASSES this links with above by enabling me to expand my professional network by meeting and collaborating with new people. Participating in classes allows me to explore different approaches and techniques in a safe environment, where I can receive feedback from other professionals. It also gives me the opportunity to work with new texts and discuss developments in the industry.
Having a profile on SOCIAL NETWORKING sites such as twitter enables me to find information about upcoming productions and events. I follow lots of playwright's, production company's and theatre company's which often use twitter as a way of advertising auditions and other collaboration opportunities. It also allows other professionals to find and 'follow me' . I agree with Iona Holland though about being careful HOW you use your profile, sometimes it can be to your detriment if you have a wild social life that's not to everyone's taste it may put people off working with you. In situations like this it's probably better to have a separate profile for work and play.
THE INTERNET is probably the quickest way to source information. Particular websites I use such as www.castingcallpro.com allow me to access castings, and join forums. Another site I use a lot is called www.ideastap.com. This arts based website has articles and features, advertisements for courses and shows as well as job opportunities. It focuses on a variety of creative industry's which means I get to learn about other people's practice as well as receive unbiased information. I use the internet often when looking for teaching resources particularly new drama games and starter activities.
As Michael Schiffer mentioned on his blog though there is danger of drifting off task when you have so much information available to you. The Internet as isn't always 100% accurate, sights like Wikipedia are renowned for having unreliable information so it's important to chose wisely.
Other sources of I use are MEDIA such as newspapers, television program's and films. TV and FILM keep me up to date with who is casting what, what production companies are producing the sort of shows I like etc with this information I am then able to research further into said producers work (using sights like www.imdb.com) and approach them. I tend to use newspapers to read theatre reviews and to find out what's on and where.
Certain BOOKS that I also find useful are directories such as contacts and an actors guide as they house contact details for every industry professional you could hope for as well as text books such as 'Shakespeare's words' glossary by Ben and David Crystal when approaching classical text.
Monday, 22 April 2013
Task 3B Theories relating to networking
Cooperation
co·op·er·a·tion
noun
1.
an act or instance of working or acting together for a common purpose or benefit; joint action.
2.
more or less active assistance from a person, organization, etc.: We sought the cooperation of variouscivic leaders.
4.
Economics . the combination of persons for purposes of production, purchase, or distribution for theirjoint benefit: producers' cooperation; consumers' cooperation.
5.
Sociology . activity shared for mutual benefit.
I found this concept challenged my perception of cooperation. If you look at the definitions I have pasted above, there is a reoccurring theme of togetherness and mutual gain. The word 'co' in my opinion signifies partnership and links between people, places and things. The idea of succeeding at someone else's expense hadn't even crossed my mind and I'm not sure if I agree that this is then a successful tool in networking if ultimately it leads to taking advantage of others?!
I tried to make connections between my work and the concept and found many scenarios which I feel I have been 'screwed over' but that's the same of many industry's and I'm not sure if these examples really follow the same pattern. There maybe similarities in the sense of the audition process for example, but even with this example I'm not sure I fully see the connection. The way I understood the reader, it painted a picture of almost using other people until you don't need them anymore and then dropping them when when you have achieved what you set out to achieve. I certainly don't agree with this practise but maybe nobody behaves this way knowingly. As I went on to read the Robert Axelrod extract something really resonated with me. When should you be cooperative and when should you be selfish. Unfortunately as human beings part of our make up is to be selfish and although I don't consider myself a selfish person at all I'm sure there have been occasions in my life where I have been. The expression 'dog eat dog' rings a bell at this point and maybe if I had behaved more ruthlessly in my career I would be more successful but I'm not sure I'd like myself very much for it. This lead me to consider another saying I've heard time again 'Be careful how you treat people on the way up - you'll meet them again on your way down' . The thing is, if both parties are aware of this concept, why does it have to be a bad thing? and does it always have to end with someone being hurt? Can't you just work mutually with someone until you both have what you want out of the situation and then defect? Does someone always have to lose?
The example Axelrod gives of a friend you continuously do favours for who never reciprocates triggered my thinking further and I realised that being to cooperative/passive can then give others the opportunity to take advantage of you and without realising it your the one allowing it to happen.
So all in all I'm in two minds about this concept but certainly have a much greater awareness and rightly or wrongly, suspicion of motives now.
Affiliation
I was having a conversation with a friend last night regarding this topic. They were telling me that an old friend of there's who's an actress (talented and successful in her own right but not 'well known') we're call her girl A. Anyway girl A is very good friends with an extremely famous influential actress (girl B) and often uses this friendship in strange ways. For example if both girls are meeting friends for drinks, girl A wont arrive until girl B is there so they can walk in together, but more importantly so people can see them walking in together. Now I find this behaviour quite false but I certainly understand the reasons behind it.
Not all means of affiliation have to be so obvious. As the reader implies, I see affiliation as an extension of friendships. The people you chose to have relationships with are surely the people you wish to be affiliated with. The relationships may not have to extend to something as strong as friendship but certainly a mutual respect and understanding in my opinion. I would say I tend to lean more towards the private side, I have a group of very close friends rather than several acquaintances like I have done in my past. A major part of this is that I just don't have the time to nurture loads of relationships anymore.I have defiantly noticed more recently how much emphasis is placed on networks now and how beneficial it can be, in terms of work and socially. As someone who is returning to the industry I'm certainly hoping to rebuild connections and make new contacts in order to get my face out there again, and I'm very excited to do so as I love meeting new people. I'm not against networking at all and certainly think it has many values, but over the years I have seen so many young actresses throwing themselves at pervy old casting directors and shagging there way to the top it has left a bitter taste in my mouth. Unfortunately there are lots of people ready to take advantage of there situation. I feel that talent should speak for itself and we shouldn't have to go against our own morals to achieve success. The rise in social media has created new levels of sharing and connection which is great on one hand but what does it all mean? Do these relationships have any substance?
Social Constructionism
Social constructionism has a lot to offer I believe. In the last 10 years we have seen incredible developments in the way we communicate and network. Going by the idea that how we interact allows us to 'construct meanings of the world' this concept is hugely relevant to our time. We are able to share practise now on such a vast scale, through various means of social media. The amount of information available is never ending and anything you want to no the answer to your be able to find it. Who did we ask these questions to before? Its evident in my mind that we have become more open minded in our views and awareness.We are able to connect with people from different country's,cultures and religions. Our beliefs are being challenged and we are able to make more informed decisions based on a variety of sources rather than just being influence by what we are fed by ruling bodies.
Our planet is certainly changing and these changes have allowed fantastic developments in the arts. Stories are being shared worldwide and news is spreading faster than ever.
If I wanted to collaborate with a director in South America it wouldn't be impossible, you can even audition via Skype now.
The world is becoming a smaller place and its exciting but also quite scary. Everything is moving incredibly quickly its hard to keep up. Future generations will never no a world without facebook and will have there entire lives documented. My main fear is that through this we lose the ability to communicate on a basic humanistic level. There is a lot to be said for the convenience of a text message, but it's just that... text. People can chose to interpret that text in which every way they please but you cant beat a good old fashion face to face conversation. I like to listen to people speak passionately about things, I find human beings far more interesting to look at than a computer screen.
Its important for us to be curious and have opinions on things and its equally as desirable to feel like your not alone in your views and actually contribute ideas that help others find meaning. We all like to analyse why things are the way they are. I would never pretend to know the answers but its nice to ask the questions.
Connectivism
This concept leads on nicely from the previous discussion above. Connectivism suggests the way we learn has been hugely influenced by the spread of the Internet. We are slowly moving away from the more traditional teacher to student transfer of information and are now able to collaborate and learn through a variety of networks.
I personally believe that there is value in ALL methods of learning, and actually opening our minds to different styles and approaches will surely help us become more rounded individuals.
There is no harm, in my opinion, in following up teacher lead study with your own person research, if fact I should imagine in most fields its encouraged.
There have been times during this course that I have struggled, and unlike the ROL module, where my academic adviser would have been present to past on knowledge and encouragement, I have looked to my current professional network (The BAPP blogs) for support and ideas.
Connectivism doesn't refer only use of the Internet. I take an acting class every Thursday night. The teacher maybe my primary source of knowledge but as a network, myself and the other participants constantly share ideas and discuss practise. We are all out there doing it now. We have just as much right and intelligence to pass on our 'wisdom' and experience as someone qualified to do so. It may not be appropriate for doctors for example but as artists I think its important we communicate via a range of mediums. As it states in the reader 'Informal learning is a significant part of our learning experience'.
What is more important, how we learn? Or what we learn? Again I feel this course is a good example of how I have achieved both in recent months. I set up my blog in order to learn but by doing so how I learn was challenged. I used different websites and played with computer programs I'd never heard of,I had no teacher in front if me telling me what to do. My way of thinking or way of learning was more independent and through this I found confidence I areas I hadn't been confident in before. I'm not sure if there is scientific knowledge as to what is thee most effective way to learn. I believe its specific to each individual. Connectivism as a concept is just a natural progression in the world we live.
Communites of Practice
When I think about community I feel safe and supported. Therefore having a community of people available to you to share practise with, I see this as only a positive thing. Referring to our course again, I'm not sure I would be able to find the energy sometimes to keep us with the work load whilst juggling a full time job, but I get strength from the other students who are experiencing the same struggles.
I have different communities for different strands of my life but they all involve a certain amount of networking. My friendship group for example, wouldn't be able to share my fears about auditions but they can relate to other things I'm going through and visa versa. If you have a social interest in a topic, it is only natural you would like to share your views with others who are also interested in that topic.
Once you are out of your training (e.g. drama school) You need to make more of an effort to develop your communities. I have a range of 'acting friends' some are actors, some directors, script writers and teachers all at varying levels of success but with out any type of hierarchy. At as network these people allowed me to develop my craft and look at situations from alternative points of view. I learn from them all the time, even if its not a 'formal' style of learning.
My brain is burning and I'm extremely aware another 12 hour working day is on the horizon.
Night all :)
Not all means of affiliation have to be so obvious. As the reader implies, I see affiliation as an extension of friendships. The people you chose to have relationships with are surely the people you wish to be affiliated with. The relationships may not have to extend to something as strong as friendship but certainly a mutual respect and understanding in my opinion. I would say I tend to lean more towards the private side, I have a group of very close friends rather than several acquaintances like I have done in my past. A major part of this is that I just don't have the time to nurture loads of relationships anymore.I have defiantly noticed more recently how much emphasis is placed on networks now and how beneficial it can be, in terms of work and socially. As someone who is returning to the industry I'm certainly hoping to rebuild connections and make new contacts in order to get my face out there again, and I'm very excited to do so as I love meeting new people. I'm not against networking at all and certainly think it has many values, but over the years I have seen so many young actresses throwing themselves at pervy old casting directors and shagging there way to the top it has left a bitter taste in my mouth. Unfortunately there are lots of people ready to take advantage of there situation. I feel that talent should speak for itself and we shouldn't have to go against our own morals to achieve success. The rise in social media has created new levels of sharing and connection which is great on one hand but what does it all mean? Do these relationships have any substance?
Social Constructionism
Social constructionism has a lot to offer I believe. In the last 10 years we have seen incredible developments in the way we communicate and network. Going by the idea that how we interact allows us to 'construct meanings of the world' this concept is hugely relevant to our time. We are able to share practise now on such a vast scale, through various means of social media. The amount of information available is never ending and anything you want to no the answer to your be able to find it. Who did we ask these questions to before? Its evident in my mind that we have become more open minded in our views and awareness.We are able to connect with people from different country's,cultures and religions. Our beliefs are being challenged and we are able to make more informed decisions based on a variety of sources rather than just being influence by what we are fed by ruling bodies.
Our planet is certainly changing and these changes have allowed fantastic developments in the arts. Stories are being shared worldwide and news is spreading faster than ever.
If I wanted to collaborate with a director in South America it wouldn't be impossible, you can even audition via Skype now.
The world is becoming a smaller place and its exciting but also quite scary. Everything is moving incredibly quickly its hard to keep up. Future generations will never no a world without facebook and will have there entire lives documented. My main fear is that through this we lose the ability to communicate on a basic humanistic level. There is a lot to be said for the convenience of a text message, but it's just that... text. People can chose to interpret that text in which every way they please but you cant beat a good old fashion face to face conversation. I like to listen to people speak passionately about things, I find human beings far more interesting to look at than a computer screen.
Its important for us to be curious and have opinions on things and its equally as desirable to feel like your not alone in your views and actually contribute ideas that help others find meaning. We all like to analyse why things are the way they are. I would never pretend to know the answers but its nice to ask the questions.
Connectivism
This concept leads on nicely from the previous discussion above. Connectivism suggests the way we learn has been hugely influenced by the spread of the Internet. We are slowly moving away from the more traditional teacher to student transfer of information and are now able to collaborate and learn through a variety of networks.
I personally believe that there is value in ALL methods of learning, and actually opening our minds to different styles and approaches will surely help us become more rounded individuals.
There is no harm, in my opinion, in following up teacher lead study with your own person research, if fact I should imagine in most fields its encouraged.
There have been times during this course that I have struggled, and unlike the ROL module, where my academic adviser would have been present to past on knowledge and encouragement, I have looked to my current professional network (The BAPP blogs) for support and ideas.
Connectivism doesn't refer only use of the Internet. I take an acting class every Thursday night. The teacher maybe my primary source of knowledge but as a network, myself and the other participants constantly share ideas and discuss practise. We are all out there doing it now. We have just as much right and intelligence to pass on our 'wisdom' and experience as someone qualified to do so. It may not be appropriate for doctors for example but as artists I think its important we communicate via a range of mediums. As it states in the reader 'Informal learning is a significant part of our learning experience'.
What is more important, how we learn? Or what we learn? Again I feel this course is a good example of how I have achieved both in recent months. I set up my blog in order to learn but by doing so how I learn was challenged. I used different websites and played with computer programs I'd never heard of,I had no teacher in front if me telling me what to do. My way of thinking or way of learning was more independent and through this I found confidence I areas I hadn't been confident in before. I'm not sure if there is scientific knowledge as to what is thee most effective way to learn. I believe its specific to each individual. Connectivism as a concept is just a natural progression in the world we live.
Communites of Practice
When I think about community I feel safe and supported. Therefore having a community of people available to you to share practise with, I see this as only a positive thing. Referring to our course again, I'm not sure I would be able to find the energy sometimes to keep us with the work load whilst juggling a full time job, but I get strength from the other students who are experiencing the same struggles.
I have different communities for different strands of my life but they all involve a certain amount of networking. My friendship group for example, wouldn't be able to share my fears about auditions but they can relate to other things I'm going through and visa versa. If you have a social interest in a topic, it is only natural you would like to share your views with others who are also interested in that topic.
Once you are out of your training (e.g. drama school) You need to make more of an effort to develop your communities. I have a range of 'acting friends' some are actors, some directors, script writers and teachers all at varying levels of success but with out any type of hierarchy. At as network these people allowed me to develop my craft and look at situations from alternative points of view. I learn from them all the time, even if its not a 'formal' style of learning.
My brain is burning and I'm extremely aware another 12 hour working day is on the horizon.
Night all :)
Saturday, 13 April 2013
Task 3a Current Networks
What are the current and different ways you have or do engage with your professional network?
What are the established (and different) ways that others use their networks, especially if they are more established or experienced practitioners that you admire?
A lot of professional actors have there own websites to showcase themselves. These might include showreel footage, a gallery of professional photos, imdb links, reviews etc. Depending on who your being represented by, you may also have your own page on your agents websites. Which allows you to be actively seen by someone else's network of professionals.
I suppose the more established you are the less you have to do with regards to developing your network. Mainly because you have agents and mangers to do that for you and a successful reputation to fall back on. However ambitious individuals who want to make it across the pond for example would still have to put themselves out and network. And actually the more career driven you are in this industry the more successful you will become.
I believe the more established individual would rely mainly on, what I consider to be the most effective method of networking which is in person. This could be by inviting people to see your work or quite commonly at industry party's. I do find these situations rather uncomfortable as they can open the door to a lot of false behavior and sucking up. However if you can do that I believe it's a great skill to have as a performer, it gets your face out there. In any field of employment I'm sure it's benifitical to build contacts with people who could help you or who you to help.
Are there methods, approaches and technologies that you use socially that might apply and help you develop your professional networking?
I have recently deleted my Facebook account for personal reasons but do question how good a move that was as more and more production company's are using sites such as Facebook to post castings and network with actors. The thing is I often find those particular means of networking 'unprofessional'. I understand the desire and frustrations of 'getting noticed' by the right people. However more often than not many of the company's that use such public means of advertising job roles are not the right people. Unfortunately the industry elite are a very small close knit group of individuals, and I'm not saying that I wouldn't like things to change but at the moment the people at the top of the chain don't need to use these forms of social media. In such an over-saturated industry they can have there pick.
I do think there are certain approaches that would ultimately benefit my own career and allow me to develop and gain more confidence. The approach I take to life generally is very on the ball. I'm extremely motivated but I do feel maybe I have become quite jaded over the years and I no there's a lot more I could being doing with regards to my acting.
When you reflect upon current networks, can you think about the motives of others to be in the network and what values and purpose they have in mind?
I've read this question a few times and am struggling to come to terms of what it's actually asking. So based purely on speculation I will try and make some sense of it.
Family speak for themselves I believe, we have to like each other!!
I guess with my friends they value my loyalty. We have common interests such as fashion and music.
With regards to my acting friends and tutors we obviously have the mutual appreciation of the arts. We are also able to help each other out by closing the gap between each others connections.
What would your ideal network look like and why?
Ideally my professional network would look a lot fuller! My employers would merge completely with the industry professionals, and I'd also hope to add to this and network of artistic directors, production company's and film crews.
My hope is to start making my own work which would be responsible for a growth in my contacts.
I'd like to have a lot more face to face communication with my professional network as I find this generally leads to creative discussion and opens the door to other opportunities and ideas. Emails etc are quick and efficient but are quite impersonal so tend not to allow much growth.
What realistic things could you do to your work towards developing your ideal network?
I could start to put ideas into practice. I need to finish writing scripts, get a showreel made, get a website up and running, write to people and ideally be in a play that I can invite people to. I no there is a lot more I could be doing at this point in time. It's really a case of prioritising so I don't get overwhelmed and start to make things happen.
What tools and methods do you need to use? What do you know about your current and intended networks and importantly what do you not know?
Time and money (investments) are sadly the things that I'm lacking that would genuinely make a difference.
What I know.... I know that people are very busy and developments in the industry are rapid. You need to stay on your toes. In the 7 years since I've graduated so much has changed. Much of this is to do with technology. It's quite frightening how much progress the 'online' world has made. It has changed the way we audition, the way we train and most prominently the way we communicate. I have to say I am a bit old fashioned in the respect I much prefer to talk to someone than send a message but I do see benefits in both. I think it is important to stay relevant. If you want to stay fresh in someone's mind then you need to be constantly active within your network.
What I don't know... I don't know how a lot of technologies work. For example I have a friend who is able to update her own showreel using a Mac program. That would be hugely beneficial to me. As I mentioned above I feel lack of money has huge restraints on what I'm able to achieve and the ability to edit my own work would save me from paying others to do it.
I don't feel I no what the industry professionals are looking for anymore. You hear such contradicting information from people I find it difficult to judge. There are lots of casting workshops advertised now in which you pay to do a dummy audition/workshop day with a well known casting director. From the point of view if the actor it's a chance to get seen by someone who could potentially give you work. I used to go to loads as I thought it was a fantastic idea. But as time went on I began to become quite skeptical about the whole thing. Casting directors are just people who need to make a living. Like actors they are self-employed and if they can make £500 for a 5 hour session then why wouldn't they. I literally don't no anymore that has been 'spotted' via one of these classes, and yes I understand stand its still a good way to make 'connections' but part of me feels like its taking advantage of actors who are willing to do anything to get noticed, and actually that's casting director would go straight to there own network of agents and managers if they had work on.
What are the established (and different) ways that others use their networks, especially if they are more established or experienced practitioners that you admire?
A lot of professional actors have there own websites to showcase themselves. These might include showreel footage, a gallery of professional photos, imdb links, reviews etc. Depending on who your being represented by, you may also have your own page on your agents websites. Which allows you to be actively seen by someone else's network of professionals.
I suppose the more established you are the less you have to do with regards to developing your network. Mainly because you have agents and mangers to do that for you and a successful reputation to fall back on. However ambitious individuals who want to make it across the pond for example would still have to put themselves out and network. And actually the more career driven you are in this industry the more successful you will become.
I believe the more established individual would rely mainly on, what I consider to be the most effective method of networking which is in person. This could be by inviting people to see your work or quite commonly at industry party's. I do find these situations rather uncomfortable as they can open the door to a lot of false behavior and sucking up. However if you can do that I believe it's a great skill to have as a performer, it gets your face out there. In any field of employment I'm sure it's benifitical to build contacts with people who could help you or who you to help.
Are there methods, approaches and technologies that you use socially that might apply and help you develop your professional networking?
I have recently deleted my Facebook account for personal reasons but do question how good a move that was as more and more production company's are using sites such as Facebook to post castings and network with actors. The thing is I often find those particular means of networking 'unprofessional'. I understand the desire and frustrations of 'getting noticed' by the right people. However more often than not many of the company's that use such public means of advertising job roles are not the right people. Unfortunately the industry elite are a very small close knit group of individuals, and I'm not saying that I wouldn't like things to change but at the moment the people at the top of the chain don't need to use these forms of social media. In such an over-saturated industry they can have there pick.
I do think there are certain approaches that would ultimately benefit my own career and allow me to develop and gain more confidence. The approach I take to life generally is very on the ball. I'm extremely motivated but I do feel maybe I have become quite jaded over the years and I no there's a lot more I could being doing with regards to my acting.
When you reflect upon current networks, can you think about the motives of others to be in the network and what values and purpose they have in mind?
I've read this question a few times and am struggling to come to terms of what it's actually asking. So based purely on speculation I will try and make some sense of it.
Family speak for themselves I believe, we have to like each other!!
I guess with my friends they value my loyalty. We have common interests such as fashion and music.
With regards to my acting friends and tutors we obviously have the mutual appreciation of the arts. We are also able to help each other out by closing the gap between each others connections.
What would your ideal network look like and why?
Ideally my professional network would look a lot fuller! My employers would merge completely with the industry professionals, and I'd also hope to add to this and network of artistic directors, production company's and film crews.
My hope is to start making my own work which would be responsible for a growth in my contacts.
I'd like to have a lot more face to face communication with my professional network as I find this generally leads to creative discussion and opens the door to other opportunities and ideas. Emails etc are quick and efficient but are quite impersonal so tend not to allow much growth.
What realistic things could you do to your work towards developing your ideal network?
I could start to put ideas into practice. I need to finish writing scripts, get a showreel made, get a website up and running, write to people and ideally be in a play that I can invite people to. I no there is a lot more I could be doing at this point in time. It's really a case of prioritising so I don't get overwhelmed and start to make things happen.
What tools and methods do you need to use? What do you know about your current and intended networks and importantly what do you not know?
Time and money (investments) are sadly the things that I'm lacking that would genuinely make a difference.
What I know.... I know that people are very busy and developments in the industry are rapid. You need to stay on your toes. In the 7 years since I've graduated so much has changed. Much of this is to do with technology. It's quite frightening how much progress the 'online' world has made. It has changed the way we audition, the way we train and most prominently the way we communicate. I have to say I am a bit old fashioned in the respect I much prefer to talk to someone than send a message but I do see benefits in both. I think it is important to stay relevant. If you want to stay fresh in someone's mind then you need to be constantly active within your network.
What I don't know... I don't know how a lot of technologies work. For example I have a friend who is able to update her own showreel using a Mac program. That would be hugely beneficial to me. As I mentioned above I feel lack of money has huge restraints on what I'm able to achieve and the ability to edit my own work would save me from paying others to do it.
I don't feel I no what the industry professionals are looking for anymore. You hear such contradicting information from people I find it difficult to judge. There are lots of casting workshops advertised now in which you pay to do a dummy audition/workshop day with a well known casting director. From the point of view if the actor it's a chance to get seen by someone who could potentially give you work. I used to go to loads as I thought it was a fantastic idea. But as time went on I began to become quite skeptical about the whole thing. Casting directors are just people who need to make a living. Like actors they are self-employed and if they can make £500 for a 5 hour session then why wouldn't they. I literally don't no anymore that has been 'spotted' via one of these classes, and yes I understand stand its still a good way to make 'connections' but part of me feels like its taking advantage of actors who are willing to do anything to get noticed, and actually that's casting director would go straight to there own network of agents and managers if they had work on.
Tuesday, 9 April 2013
2d Inquiry Task
What in your daily practice gets you really enthusiastic to find out more about? Who do you admire who also works with what makes you enthusiastic?
I am really enthusiastic to find out more about how people define good acting and how we create truth in performances. I think for me when I really believe a performance that's when I think the actor is talented. You have to feel relaxed in allowing them to take you on a journey and for me if there is no truth I cannot fully relax, I'm aware of watching a 'performance' Instead of someone just being. I've studied technique during my training which I found a very effective method in creating a internal life for your character. It works by removing the focus from yourself and placing it all on the other person or persons in the scene. By doing this you are able to respond/react totally truthfully in the moment as you aren't caught up in your own head but have given yourself over entirely to the given circumstances of the piece. I really feel it is only then the 'truth' can reveal itself and interesting stuff starts to happen.
The person who introduced me to this way of acting was a teacher I had called Adam . He is a very inspirational man and performer. He has his own theatre company called 'The Sticking Place' who focus mainly on improvisation. I watched them perform in Edinburgh a few summer's ago and they improvised an entire musical off the back of a fake review. He allowed me to find different ways in which to approach my work and is hugely knowledgeable of his practice.
What makes you angry or makes you sad? Who do you admire who shares your feelings or has found away to work around the anger or sadness?
In relation to my work I feel angry and sad about how corrupt and elitist it can be. Its a very fickle world at times and more often than not people are judged purely on the way they look or who they no rather than their ability's. Sadly I don't think the same opportunity's are available to everyone and so much of the good we do as performers is outweighed by the pretentious inflexible views of those in control.
This leads on nicely to the world around me which can be a cruel place. As individuals we are able to, and should look for our own truth, but a lot of us are to lazy and let the media feed us what they believe is news worthy. The two tie together nicely as our obsession with fame and famous people can often distract us from the harsh truth of what's going on out there. I'm not judging people who are I interested in celebrity, I get sucked into it also. It provides escapism from our own life's and can be aspirational for some. I find it frustrating when 'celebs' are cast in roles just because of there status when there are far more talented 'no bodies' who could do a better job. But unfortunately people are greedy and a 'name' will bring in more money.
My boyfriend has influenced my views and helped me understand the value of what I do. We share a frustration of our surroundings and he has encouraged me to look beyond what's right in front of me and look a little deeper into things, not to just accept what I'm being told.
We are both working in education now and this is a valuable opportunity to give something back and help shape the future. Working with children is so worth while and helps you see good in the world. I think the creative industry can be a dark place at times and its easy to get wrapped up in things that don't really matter. What I do now keeps me grounded and helps me realise what's actually important.
What do you love about what you do? Who do you admire who seems also to love this or is an example of what you love?
I love the freedom you have to express yourself as an artist, you can be silly, you can be serious it doesn't matter. Its scary at times and you have to open yourself up to being vulnerable.But I think its good to do stuff that scares you, it keeps you alive. Ultimately acting is just playing and who doesn't like to play?! Your able to put yourself in different situations, different times. I love the joy it brings people. I love watching my students progress and grow in confidence.
My friend Simon is an actor. His journey has been very different to mine and he has worked continuously since leaving drama school. I'd say he is an example of what I love about being an artist as he is such a free spirit and so intelligent with it. He isn't restricted by boundaries of fear or confidence, he truly lives it. I wish I was more like him in away. He has had a much easier ride in the industry than I have and maybe it's his lack of bitterness which allows him not to hold back and just totally be himself or maybe it's because of this he is so successful. But when I think about the freedom to be creative I think of him.
What do you feel you don't understand? Who do you admire who does seem to understand it or who has found a way of making not understanding it interesting or beautiful, or has asked you the same question?
After my year travelling I began to ask many questions about the world a round me. There is so much I don't understand that I probably never will.I certainly feel travelling broadens the mind and I'm not sure I've been them same since my return. Relating this to my practice I struggle to understand how we measure success. We seem so obsessed as a nation with image and I think success comes under that umbrella. How many times have you bumped into someone you used to know and one of the first things they ask is 'What do you do?' Almost as if this is a judgement of how well your doing or more importantly who you are.
I haven't been involved an professional acting work for a long time. I wasn't getting the breaks and was fed up of working for free on students films (there's only so many you can do) so I decided to try and make my own work.I started writing scripts, go to acting workshops regularly and am always at the theatre. I still consider myself as an artist but I teach drama, waitress a little and work with children special needs. To me, I feel unsuccessful in my desired career which is why now I am doing this course in order to better myself. However does being a successful artist mean you need to have 3 Oscars and a glittering film career? I can't say I'd turn it down but would I be content with that or would I still want more. Surely to be happy is to be successful?
Whilst I was in Bali I met a very spiritual man named . He was always smiling, loved his family and repeated one phrase to me continuously 'Enjoy the life'. I consider him the most successful person I no.
Sunday, 7 April 2013
Task 2c Reflective Theory
I consider myself quite a reflective soul by nature. However until looking into the process of reflection in more detail via this reader I wasn't aware how much I reflect or the different ways in which I go about it and furthermore how this then shapes my learning.
By looking at what others have said about reflection I have been made aware of techniques and tools I do use and learnt the significance of others that I don't.
So I've had to ask myself, how do I reflect on events? I thought about times I'd find myself going over conversations or replaying scenarios in my head, generally when I'm relaxed,at night, in the bath or on the bus. I later came to understand this is called reflection on action. Which I was surprised to discover is seen as academic approach to reflection. Schon defines this response 'taking the time out to go away, conceptualise and look back'.Artists tend to lean more towards reflection in action basically responding to something as it happens in the moment. I do this all the time and hadn't even considered this as a type of reflection but just the way I work. I always thought the definition of reflection was to look back on something, so was pleased to see techniques I use in my practice regonised as tools.
Robert Kottcamp refers to these states as offline and online. When offline (in the bath etc) you are able to give your full attention to analysis without needing immediate action. He sees online as being harder to achieve as you are present in the moment but still have to have the awareness of a spectator to analyse your action and intervene immediately. Almost like two streams of thought,internal and external. This is very significant to the work of an actor. When building a character for example one of the most important tasks is to create an internal and external world in order to portray a fully rounded individual.
Kottcamp being an academic, is maybe his reasoning behind seeing online as being more difficult to achieve. When I reflect now on the way I work as an actress and teacher being online is just part of whom I am, I couldn't do my job successfully if I wasn't able to adapt to situations naturally. I see value in both methods for professional development and I'm not sure one can exist without the other. I may spend all day rehearsing a scene, and each time I perform that scene it will be different because I'm listening and reacting to the other actors in the moment. That doesn't mean to say I wont, later that night be thinking about the scene again, what worked, what didn't, what I want to try tomorrow.
Dewey discusses "different levels of experience" and suggests the education process is "continual reorganisation, reconstruction and transformation of experience"
I think the quote is valid in the respect we all come to a situation with varied levels of experience. However no individual has all the answers and we all continuously develop. Our experience levels maybe be different but it's experience none the less and as long as we are aware that the learning never stops I think it doesn't matter what level your on as long as your hungry for more. I often have thought I learnt something through experience but what I think that actually means is from making mistakes. So maybe our education system should be seen as establishment that we feel able to make mistakes with the safety of professionals around us who will guide us in the right direction. I no personally drama school was an environment and I was encouraged to make mistakes and take risks. School maybe not so much, but I don't understand why it can't be. If they weren't so concerned with money and league tables and focused that energy into challenging young minds and encouraging them to ask the right questions rather than 'this is black this is white' we may all get more from the experience. Dewey goes on to say 'full experience and full engagement with our lives leads to a better society' - 'reflective thought describes an awareness of an experience'. Awareness is surely always a good thing and I agree that awareness of the world we live in will lead to positive choices in the way we live our lifes.
Lewin took this idea further, with his interest in social change and experiential learning and divided an experience into spiral steps.
These mentioned practitioners then informed frame work of Kolbs cycle of learning. I found the idea of a cycle is extremely significant in a process of learning, its a continual journey. Another interesting suggestion is that we all have the capabilities to use any element of the cycle but what makes us individuals is the point we enter. It's this that reflects our learning style.
At what point of the cycle do I enter? I was instantly drawn to concrete and active. Although I found it very hard to differentiate between the two as surely whilst doing something your are trying things out? As I went around I found I related to them all and am aware I use each phase depending on my given circumstance. When approaching a difficult problem, say something mathematical (finances) I will take my time to calculate. With my blog, trial and error came first, I just had a go (active) but I could only do this because of my knowledge of Facebook and other social media (concrete) and only knew vaguely what I was expected to produce by looking at others work (reflective) once it was of a certain standard and I wanted to improve what I had done I began reading up on forums etc (abstract).
Similar to an extract in reader 2 I have always welcomed the label kinesthetic learner as it makes me feel better about my academic abilities. I find it easier to 'do' rather than to 'think', but I'm unsure if that's because I can't or I won't. I'm not unintelligent and I no if I really focus I am capable of producing good quality work, however it's difficult for me to keep that focus. I'm really easily distracted and struggle with spelling and making sense of things on paper. But I do have other qualities that might lend themselves to a more logical person, I'm very organised for example, I like to make lists and manage situations practically. When returning from traveling I considered interning as an agent as I felt maybe my knowledge and interest of the industry out weighed my talent and desire to be so involved in it. However after learning more about the role I decided that I'd find it to difficult to put others forward for work having not have fully let go of the desire to perform myself. I also thoroughly,enjoy directing students which is a bit more hands on and lead me down the teaching route. I've realised that I do crave structure, and whilst at drama school this is present, when your sent out into the world alone it's common to feel lost.I love performing, but I'm not sure I can just flit in and out of it anymore, I'm abit all or nothing and I really find it difficult to juggle both work for money and keeping an enthuiasium for performing alive.
Howard Gardeners work on intelligences broke the cycle down into even more detail for me. I was aware of links between the cycle and your learning style. I no from my work in schools one of the first things teachers do when students begin yr7 is find out if your a visual, audio or kinesthetic learner.I liked the idea of the intelligences and feel like this made me question my own style once again. I was very much draw to the interpersonal and intrapersonal descriptions, but can you be both? I can't differentiate at the moment, but I shall certainly revisit it later in the course.
I was really interested in Moons idea of the articulation of reflective practice. How can something have understanding and meaning if we cannot make it accessible to others? Artist don't have to use words to recall but often muscle memory lends itself to demonstration. I struggled with this whilst working on my ROL module as I couldn't verbalise feelings that I referred to as 'instinctual', and actually quite often as an artist if you are required to go against your instincts in practice and make conscious effort to describe it can hinder you and force you to second guess your choices. I understand its important to communicate for professional practice. During my training I would relie on other senses or forms of notation to explain my practice or to aid me in creation of character and emotion.Drawings, music, pictures and clothing are an example of some useful tools.
Whilst reading Bouds chapter on journals I was very interested in the idea that a journal can be used To reflect in anticipation of, I also wasn't aware that I do this all the time maybe I hadn't labeled it as reflection because as I mentioned before I always assumed reflection was looking back on, but I see now preparing ourselves for what's to come is something in grained in us as humans and manifesters itself into the way we approach situations. It allows us to review our intentions and outcomes, how strongly we hold our intents. It is important though to allow a certain amount of flexibility in our thoughts or will they blind us from exploring other possibilities. What do I want to bring to a situation? And be mindful of what may distract us from desired outcomes or intentions. For example this course, this task even, this module. The what if element of task B now makes complete sense to me from this perspective!
Attending to feeling also struck a core with me and I now no I need to address this with regards to things I been negative about at work and during this course and change my mind set as negativity can hinder progression and/or distort perceptions. I was inspired by the notion that through sharing our thoughts and ideas (like we are in the blogs) we can change perspectives, challenge old patterns and re-evaluate our own believes.
Important themes that came up with all the practitioners is our desire and ability as humans to understand and be understood. I will be certainly looking further into techniques of reflection and enjoy having the awareness of what I'm doing and how I'm doing it. I will also make more of an effort to work and make time for my journal as it is a fantastic way of monitoring developments.
“Life is a journey, not a destination.”
― Ralph Waldo Emerson
Tuesday, 12 March 2013
Task 2b: Journal Writing Experience
The first thing I have noticed during this task is how little time I have! I cram WAY to much into a day which ultimately has left me stressed out about this work and making every excuse not to sit down and get on with it.
I found keeping up with a journal difficult. By some strange coincidence this task has fallen on quite a hard few weeks for me. Both in my personal and professional life. In many ways this has been part of my struggle as I haven't wanted to revisit those difficult moments. I guess I feel as though I constantly reflect anyway. I replay conversations in my head, talk things through with others, think about what I could have done differently, how other people feel and generally give myself a hard time! I spend hours a day talking to myself!! The thing is when it comes to writing those feelings down I feel very uncomfortable. I'm still not really sure why, I feel quite unnatural to me and self indulgent. I didn't actually find it useful but rather a hassle, a step in the wrong direction. I realise this is quite a negative opinion, and I'm not against the idea of a journal in the professional sense, (taking notes during a rehearsal period for example) I just didn't enjoy it in this context. I found myself making a lot of lists as this seemed to be the easiest most unattached way of getting it done.
Later on in the process after trying different methods I discovered it isn't the writing I disliked so much but the re-reading. I cringed going over my notes and found it hard to connected with what I had said even though, I no at the time I was totally immersed. Maybe that's because it's all relatively fresh or maybe that's how we all feel when we re-read our work. I have even felt that way going over previous blogs. As time passes our feelings towards certain moments or encounters change. Maybe we have made piece with a situation or simply no longer care, there are many possible scenarios.
Getting back to the point of this blog, I feel my evaluation skills are developing and this is certainly a preferred technique for me. I found the another view idea pretty pointless, I would only be going on assumption and speculation which I'm not sure would help me achieve anything. It can however raise questions but I'm not sure that these aren't questions you would come to anyway. I have similar feelings toward the pictures graphs and charts however I enjoyed looking back over these as it was a simplified way to gauge how my day went and think could be quite useful if you wanted to monitor something over a period of time eg. Stress levels during the day or productivity of a week.
What if, was an interesting technique,I felt quite inspired by my own ambitions but then a bit disappointed at the restrictions I feel prevent me from achieving them.
Lists (as I mentioned above) were my friend, short and right to the point, although I'm not sure they developed my writing skills.
After reading over some of the other students blogs I noticed that one student was making video diaries. Again I'm not sure how this will benefit my writing but if this module is more about developing and deepening my reflective skills then I feel this medium might relieve some of the pressure for me and its certainly something I'm excited to try for a week.
Ok, now to give the reader another go, I wish I wasn't so easily distracted!!! Keep going everyone :)
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