Adversity

How we face pressure and adversity defines us as people but also as artists, some people rise up and some people give up when tried.

Those who succeed will find the positive even it be very small, they fight, they persevere, they focus on the positive: Coming out on the other side is the best thing one can do. Those who give up when threatened by adversity can end up embittered. 

Persevering through adversity makes one stronger and healthier. 

Through honesty and integrity one can do anything, one can be faced with anything and still end up on the other side. Concentration, commitment, compassion and conquering will alway leave one feeling better and stronger. Quitting and quarrelling will get one no where and will leave one feeling frustrated and weaker.

Things don't go always to plan, one will be faced with trials, speed bumps, ickiness, one may feel like giving up but what does that say about you if you do? And what does it say about you if you stick it out and get to the other side?

Lost in translation

I have started teaching & coaching again and I am over-the-moon. The actors in the studio inspire me & move me.

I have found that what I hold dear (a technique that I learnt under the mentorship of Amy Werba, an actor who worked directly with Lee Strasberg and Shelley Winters on a scholarship at the actor's studio) is being lost in translation.   I have found myself righting the wrongs that have occurred elsewhere, places churning out confused and hurt actors. Be careful of your heart, actors.

Is there any way to get back to the root of this teaching with the main man no longer here?...Is this lost-in-translation-new technique hurting actors? Making them confused, absolutely. Hurting...just ask them.

I employ classical and Stanislavski exercises in my class too but I would say that Strasberg method runs deep in my work. I am a second generation Strasberg teacher and when I teach Strasberg exercises I make sure that it is clear the WHY the exercises were devised and WHY actors are doing them and WHERE they come from.   I, especially, do not take credit for them. Strasberg exercises aren't magic! It is acting work 'tis all.

Question: Why do actor's no longer read?

No matter what technique you adhere to make sure you do your homework, see if it is a right fit for you. Try everything, find what works for you. I enjoy actors who can have an open mind. An actor's tool box should be full and full with many different tools.

I continue to love doing the job I do, I am constantly changing with the time but when I teach old exercises I do not adapt them, I do not steal, I give credit where it is due.