Audrey Shoop- Topic of Choice

     Multiple times this semester, I have noticed words and concepts spoken in this class that are also commonplace in the world of theater. It confirms for me that theater is a sacred practice and that a run of a show may even be a pilgrimage or journey. 

    In class we have talked briefly about dual consciousness, the idea of being both completely aware of two separate realities or trains of thought. When in theater, we must exercise dual consciousness so that we as actors can make character choices but also so that we can be safe on stage. In the instance of stage combat, we must have real reactions to the situation we are in as characters but also be very aware of our blocking as to not hurt our castmates, ourselves, or our set. This practice of dual consciousness benefits me in my day to day life as well. I am able to focus on something but also be mindful and aware of my surroundings. 

    Another thing both mentioned in this class and in the theater is the concept of flow: entering into that space where you are blissfully in between aware and unaware. We as actors also see it as the sweet spot between ease and challenge. In order to become a better actor, you cannot stay in your comfort zone. So you must challenge yourself just enough that you have to make progress to complete the end goal, but the end goal is not impossible for you or your cast. When I enter into that state of flow, I feel as if I am not reciting someone else's work but creating art of my own. I feel like both my mind and body are having a workout. I am most literally practicing how to be a human, how to react to things as a human would react, and how the mind of myself and minds of others work in collaboration with one another. 

    Theater truly is my sacred place, my sacred journey. Each show I do is a new pilgrimage. Each time I am on stage I learn something new and valuable.