Over the last couple of weeks I attended my first workshops. It has, I appreciate, (partly due to my own nervousness) been a while coming!
The first was run by Director Psyche Stott on “Maintaining Creativity” and was organised through the West & South West London Branch of Equity. It proved to be a very insightful afternoon combining techniques to maintain positivity through the challenging periods between jobs and a look at best practice for Actors in casting situations. It taught me a lot about the business and also helped build my confidence (I didn’t feel like I was any different to the others in the room – many of whom have had long and successful careers). I was also lovely to be in the room with other Actors and to hear their experiences.
The second was somewhat different but no less enjoyable. Run by Alison Sutcliffe – former Director at the RSC – it was a Scene Study workshop on Shakespeare’s Comedies. Focusing on scenes from Taming of the Shrew, Twelfth Night and Loves Labours Lost (which I confess I knew very little about) we dug into the text to understand the language and how it helps us to create performances. It really re-affirmed my love of Shakespeare and also emphasised that I can still think like an Actor – make choices and try things out without worrying that it might be ‘wrong’ (something I sometimes find difficult in normal life).
There is such a wealth of opportunities for Actors to learn more about their craft and also meet directors and practitioners who are happy to impart their knowledge and understanding of the industry to others. I highly recommend getting involved – who knows what you can learn and who you will meet.
The next quarter of workshops at the Actor’s Workshop have been announced and I will definitely be signing up for more.
William Baylis 