An Artist's Mindful List

Preparation and tact make an unskilled or average artist seem better than they are-imagine what it can do for a gifted and trained artist! It's been a year since I've been on stage, and yes, I suffer from the same adrenaline-deficient worries: that I'll forget how to act, that my training will dissipate, and that I won't remember how to be a good collaborator. These inane apprehensions only matter when you stop practicing, and exercising your voice and body. Realistically, upon your return to a room of collaborators, your training will kick in, and everything else is just mindfulness and forethought. 

I've compiled two lists of tips on how to be a good collaborator and actor in productions, no matter their caliber. NEWSFLASH: These are also tips on how to be a good person to work with, regardless of your position; never underestimate how people would rather cast someone who is easy to work with instead of a talented Diva. 

An Artist's Mindful List 

• Always be prompt with all forms of communication to anyone involved-and read the emails. I know no one reads the emails, but come on.
• Greeting people daily is essential for morale and great for networking
• Learn names of as many people involved as you can
• Be courteous and aware of when work is being done and do not distract
• Respect the space and clean up after yourself
• BE. ON. TIME.

An Actor's Mindful List 

• This is obvious, but doesn't always happen: READ THE PLAY at least twice before the first rehearsal. Be as off-book as you can-your collaborators will thank you for it!
• Once in rehearsal
• Remember your lines and blocking
• Make your own choices-do not wait until rehearsal to choose them as you will waste time and it is not fair to the others in the room.  Even if it's not the "right" choice, it's something to work from
• Do NOT direct another actor-go through the director if you have any input
• Do not vary blocking or rehearsed action once in performance (serious judgement on this one)
• Treat the designers & crew as well as you treat the director. Remember they are the ones that make you look and sound good

Bottom line: Be KIND and thoughtful. Positivity goes a long way!

Maria in Twelfth Night-with Lulu Rossbacher