Jail Break
#PRISON CELL
Perfection is ingrained into us from our youth right through to our adult lives. Throughout our schooling years the concept of an A+ and a perfect academic record is something our parents hope we strive for and our teachers encourage. However, when it comes to the creative world, one plus one doesn't always equal two. A lot of actors get stuck in their own heads when striving for the 'perfect' technique. Some acting classes (particularly high school) and drama schools have taught us acting techniques that we could carry with us for decades; a step-by-step guide on how to perform. Step 1: write down your backstories, subtext and motivations. Step 2: learn your lines. Step 3: deliver lines accordingly. All while sticking to the strict formula you have been taught. If you can master these basics at a young age, you are given praise from your teachers. You continue to aim for this mathematical approach to an industry that thrives on the unknown, due to the constant affirmation you have received prior. The more you get caught in perfecting a technique that flourishes from creativity and exploration, the quicker you might find yourself confined to an imaginary prison cell. You have stripped yourself of any freedom to discover anything new, and the cell you now sit in seems to control your every action.
#HIDDEN TUNNEL
Unfortunately, you are often blind to the fact that it is your training that is restricting your creative freedom. Acting is far from getting everything perfect, and if you understand that, you've already won half the battle. As long as you are trapped in this prison of perfection, it doesn't matter how amazing your performances are, they will always lack truth. There is, however, a way out. It starts when you stop trying to impress your peers and mentors. Instead, reaching out to those that you admire or whose work you appreciate, and asking for some genuine feedback. It takes a lot of courage to look at your own work critically. Being open and accepting criticism could very well be the difference between a successful career and one that had so much potential but fizzled out before it began. You need to find people you trust. People who are on the same path, and are consistently striving to find the truth in their work. If you can't trust your peers, asking for their observations will be a waste of time. A true friend wants you to succeed as much as they want to. What they have to say could bruise the ego, but if you can hear their words and take them on board, it might just be the opening you need to break free of the jail that has stripped you of your creative impulses.
#THE GREAT ESCAPE
The truth can hurt but it can also set you free. Once you have allowed the prison walls to come down, the ball and chain that has held your creativity captive can finally be released. It can happen over night or it can take years. One thing is certain though, your work changes. You will have given yourself the liberty to play. You will also see a growth and maturity to your work that you never noticed before. You are present and listening. The best part about this is that it's the tip of the iceberg. There is so much more for you to discover. If you feel like your career has stalled this could be one possible reason. Before you decided to jump down your agent's throat for not getting you the auditions. You need to first look at yourself. Are you being honest with the work you are putting out there? Or are you too busy lapping up praises and thinking your performances are just what Hollywood need? If it's the later it's time to pause for reflection. You could have been sentenced to a life in performance prison... But what is a prison with out a great escape story?
Be honest with yourself and stop giving the 'perfect' line reads ever and begin seeking for the truth. Take your future into your own hands and break free!