After drilling & drilling & drilling (AND drilling) one of my tap combinations into my head for hours this morning before anyone else awoke, I took a break for a little Facebook-time. A message was waiting for me when I logged on; a perfectly timed missive of encouragement from an inspiring Broadway performer friend of mine with whom I did a reading a few years back.
In the message she shared a fact I never would’ve suspected, while in rehearsal for her Broadway debut she suffered from the same anxiety I’m currently feeling about my dancing abilities – but how? How could such a brilliantly accomplished comedic performer suffer from the same insecurities as I? How could someone, who in my opinion, personifies all that I’d like to be as a performer suffer at all?
It put things into perspective for me, and made me think, mayhaps, if forced to improv with the guests and be funny on demand, my cast-mates might suffer the same as I. We were hired for what we excel at; each bringing to the table something different, something unique, that when combined, create an awesome theatrical experience for those watching.
Knowing I’m not alone, knowing someone I respect so highly can have the same doubts as me makes me feel… less alone. I have a feeling, next week at rehearsals, I won’t be feeling as if I belong on the “short bus” anymore…
No matter what…you will be brilliant
Hello! Stumbled across your blog, and as a fellow actress it seems like a great read!
I really do love this post. Its so nice to hear sometimes that you’re not wrong for being nervous or having doubts. Sometimes it seems like the greats are just perfect without any practice. Thanks for reminding me
Good luck! I’ll be following up on it for sure!
@ Mackenzi –
Well, welcome to the party!
I feel ya, it’s good to know that even the folks making it happen have doubts and fears and insecurities. It’s gives those of us struggling a little piece of mind…
I hope you stick around a little while – my journey isn’t unique, but it certainly isn’t boring, glad to have you on board.
Vinnie
Just remember-the botards always put on a great show…except for that one Phantom of the Opera final, but you weren’t a part of that-so no worries!