What
can joining an amateur theatre company really do for me?
It’s well known that the
proverbial “first step” is notoriously the toughest to take when making a
change.
Therefore if you are one of
those individuals who has considered taking a stab at the acting world, don’t
hesitate another minute. Get your body in motion and head in the direction of
your performing dreams.
Why? The answer is simple,
but powerful. Becoming a thespian, director, stagehand, costumer, prop master
or stage manager in an amateur dramatics group has far more intrinsic benefits
than you probably ever realised.
One of the strongest appeals of amateur dramatics is
that you don’t have to necessarily be a fantastic actor, incredible dancer or
phenomenal singer to join a group of likeminded theatre-lovers. In fact, most
of the people with whom you’ll be working will be much like you regardless of
their ages, genders, or home lives—guys and gals who just want the opportunity
to whet their performing appetites.
You and your group of acting
buddies will have an instant connection, and you’ll soon find yourself with a
new set of friends and acquaintances. This type of rapport often forms
incredibly strong bonds, and will no doubt increase your social network.
Many people gravitate toward the theatre during a low
period of their lives. For instance, the recent divorcee needs a change and
desires to meet people in a non-threatening environment. The overweight
executive wants to be known for something other than his expanding waistline.
The awkward teen wants to be a part of a non-judgmental crowd.
For
those people (and others like them), being on stage and in front of an audience
is an amazing self-esteem boost. No longer are they locked into their everyday
existences; for an hour or two, they can be someone else. They can essentially
live another life, one for which they may even receive accolades from fellow
performers and onlookers.
It’s
the rare person who does not feel more appreciated and inwardly heartened
during and after an amateur dramatics stint. Quite honestly, the majority of
individuals feel more confident and self-assured than they were before.
Getting involved in amateur dramatics involves a good
amount of studying and “homework”. Whether you’re an actor, director, set
designer or costumer, you’ll need to conduct research and attend many
rehearsals. You’ll be expected to know the script, the production’s era and
similar items intimately.
This kind of education will
broaden your horizons in ways you might never imagine. Suddenly, history will
spring to life. Perhaps you will find yourself investigating a period you never
explored before. Or maybe you’ll begin to read more works by the author of the
play in which you’ll be appearing.
This type of self-motivated
schooling has no boundaries; not surprisingly, it can become very addictive… in
a good way.
The notion of teamwork is something that is highly
regarded in families and the workplace. And it’s essential among the players of
any amateur dramatics troupe.
From day one, you’ll have
commitments and expectations. True, they might not be too involved or
complicated, but they will be important nonetheless. Forget to do something,
and the whole production could be affected.
Consequently, most persons
involved in amateur dramatics find themselves becoming masters at juggling a
number of different projects. They know that to operate as a team, they cannot
let anyone down, so they do whatever is needed to support their theatrical
brethren.
The more you put into your theatrical experience, the
more advantages you’ll receive. Getting involved in amateur dramatics won’t
necessarily change your life, but it certainly has the potential to completely
alter your perspective on life.
No more excuses… take that
first step today.