Peter Senge- The fifth discipline
I found reading this article taken from 'infer.org' ,about Peter Senge, very thought provoking in terms of my professional practice. I have picked out points within the article that really drew my attention and sparked questions about my work.
1. Senge focused on 'decentralizing the role of leadership in organizations so as to enhance to capacity of all people to work productively toward common goals'. Does this work? I thought back to times where leadership has been completely necessary and times where working together has been more productive. When on my first job as a dancer on a cruise ship, I feel it always worked better for me, to have a dance captain. When cleaning a big production show, many people will have their own opinion and input as to what they think the set choreography is, often resulting in quibbles and arguments. Having one leader (dance captain) means only one input counts, so the show can be cleaned quicker and more effectively.
Yet when working within my vocal harmony trio, we all have equal input, each bringing something new and different to the table. I feel this equal level is vital to the chemistry of the group; knowing we have all worked just as hard together to create the best material possible.
2. This directly leads me onto learning organizations. According to Senge, 'people continually expand their capacity to create the results they truly desire' and where 'people are continually learning to see the whole together' (Senge 1990:3). I feel our trio have a mini learning organization, as we continually push ourselves and each other sharing and create ideas and learning as we go to see the desired results- A successful collection of shows and cabarets, appealing to high end corporate clients and guest entertainment on board cruise ships.
It links in with his theory of 'Mental Models' and 'Building shared vision'.Senge points out in order to move forward, we must bring our thoughts to the surface; 'where people expose their own thinking effectively and make that thinking open to the influence of others' (Senge 1990:9). This simply reiterates the idea of bringing forward thoughts and ideas, so that you may thrive as a team, with each idea influencing the next. As explained, we have a 'genuine vision' so we 'excel and learn, not because they are told to, but because they want to ' and have 'shared pictures of the future' (Senge 1990:9).
3. 'Reacting to the present to creating the future' (Senge 1990:69). This has been covered in my previous blogs; how reacting in-action and reflection, can have positive effects that change the future. However he goes on to explain 'we learn best from our experience, but we never directly experience the consequences of our most important decisions. (Senge 1990:23). He feels the cause and effect will always be relatively near so we only concentrate on solutions that are 'close by' rather than focusing on long term. It made me question my own actions- Do I simply focus on short term consequences or have a more long term focus? I do not actually agree with Senge on this, as I feel I think through my actions and experiences with a long term stable future in mind. I am not a natural academic, so taking this BAPP course was a huge step for me. Short term effects have been quite stressful, managing my own care home entertainment, vocal harmony group, UK tour and teaching work (not to mention the financial aspect). Yet I do not focus on the direct consequences of stress, lack of money etc but think about the long term effect will be of having a BA and what a positive effect it will have on my future.
4. Personal Mastery- Serge talks about how we a in a continual leaning mode. I feel this is a great way of explains WBL and how we must 'see the journey as the reward', always trying to better our practice and never 'arrive' and simply settle.
I feel Serge's opinions tie in well with Task 4B, where I will create a Special interest Group. His thoughts on a 'new view of leadership' and 'aligning and developing the capacities of a team to create the results the me veers truly desire' (Senge 1990:236), will draw like minded people closer. Using a forum such as Facebook, wiki, or a blog gives the opportunity to share ideas and take away opinions about our practice. This expands peoples knowledge, in turn bettering them in the long term.
Quotes and info taken from http://infed.org/mobi/peter-senge-and-the-learning-organization/
Saturday, 27 February 2016
Friday, 26 February 2016
Task 4A- Initial Inquiry questions
After going through Reader 4, my head was full of questions and queries that I face each and every day as a performer. I spoke to peers and work colleagues to try and come up with a suitable short list, ones that had room for development.
1. As discussed in my blogs, performers are required to be so much more than 'talents', but need many other skills in order to succeed. Should colleges teach music editing skills, how to create voice and show reels and basic production skills? I spend much of my work life gigging around the country and have had to teach myself all these skills, without having any knowledge or experience.
2. Whilst training, we were under the illusion that things only happened in London and if you were to move away from the walls of the M25, you career and life would be over. After 5 years in London in decided to move back home up North. I have been extremely successful with work (granted not West End) and have worked in many tours, festivals and huge corporate events all through Northern based contacts. However, is the performance industry biased against non London performers? What challenges to performers face when living outside of London?
3. Should colleges teach business classes? I'm sure this is a question nearly every single self employed performer wishes they were taught when training. I remember doing my first self assessment tax return and literally not having one clue where to start. Knowing all performers will have to do this, should it be included into a college timetable to prepare us for working life. Also sending invoices and receipts, although are relatively simple, we were never ever told anything before hand. I feel especially in third year, it should be brought in so graduating students are not going into a world completely clueless.
4. What do people count as success? I used to think unless I was in a West end show or Beyoncés backing dancer I was unsuccessful. I have since rethought this and found there are many paths to success and it can be on many different levels and platforms. Are we too harsh on ourselves and what we count as success?
I will continue to research these questions, surveying and interviewing friends and peers to find out their opinions and which questions interest them the most.
1. As discussed in my blogs, performers are required to be so much more than 'talents', but need many other skills in order to succeed. Should colleges teach music editing skills, how to create voice and show reels and basic production skills? I spend much of my work life gigging around the country and have had to teach myself all these skills, without having any knowledge or experience.
2. Whilst training, we were under the illusion that things only happened in London and if you were to move away from the walls of the M25, you career and life would be over. After 5 years in London in decided to move back home up North. I have been extremely successful with work (granted not West End) and have worked in many tours, festivals and huge corporate events all through Northern based contacts. However, is the performance industry biased against non London performers? What challenges to performers face when living outside of London?
3. Should colleges teach business classes? I'm sure this is a question nearly every single self employed performer wishes they were taught when training. I remember doing my first self assessment tax return and literally not having one clue where to start. Knowing all performers will have to do this, should it be included into a college timetable to prepare us for working life. Also sending invoices and receipts, although are relatively simple, we were never ever told anything before hand. I feel especially in third year, it should be brought in so graduating students are not going into a world completely clueless.
4. What do people count as success? I used to think unless I was in a West end show or Beyoncés backing dancer I was unsuccessful. I have since rethought this and found there are many paths to success and it can be on many different levels and platforms. Are we too harsh on ourselves and what we count as success?
I will continue to research these questions, surveying and interviewing friends and peers to find out their opinions and which questions interest them the most.
Thursday, 25 February 2016
TRANSDICIPLINARY- a multi skilled profession!
Following on from my last blog, I have been analysing my work more and more, discovering my situation is definitely TRANSDICIPLINARY. 'Gibbons et al' has a theory of Mode 2, 'although originally applied to scientific inquiry' (Reader 4) is applicable to my working life. As discussed previously, I use a many number of disciplines outside of performance arts- competences and capabilities;
* Administrator- As my main source of income is from performing in Care homes, I have to sort out all in prices for each residency, send marketing material, send off info to new clients, as well as dealing with all the banking.
* Social media consultant- We spent much of module 1 going over just how much we use social media as a platform to promote ourselves and network to benefit our career. A huge amount of my time is spent updating my Linkd In and Facebook, putting up new promotional pictures, as well as messaging and networking to make new connections. It is so important to keep on top of it in order to progress in an ever developing technical world.
* Tele sales Communicator- As I am self employed, I have to go out and get my own work, being responsible for getting new gigs constantly. This involves cold calling residential homes,hotels, event organisers, selling my product (myself) in order to book new gigs. It requires an awful lot of patience and thick skin as often you are spoken to in a rude manner or simply cut off. I prepare 'script' guidelines in order to ensure I get all the relevant information in, with list of prices, shows etc.
* Music Technician/editor- Providing a variety of shows to a variety of audience, I am required to have a huge repertoire of music of different genres. In order for the shows to run smoothly and slick, I have to edit tracks; cut songs, mixing two together, ensuring all volumes are balanced to name a few things. I do all of this myself using software programs and apps, something I have had to teach myself over my professional life.
Other competences include: costume and set designer, producer, prop maker, human relations and business manager.
It is safe to say performers really have to be 'jack of all trades' going above and beyond the performing arts skills we trained in. I feel these competences will continue to grow in the future as my career develops, as I am creating a website and a branching out nationally. This will mean learning graphic design along with many other entrepreneurial skills involved with a growing business.
* Administrator- As my main source of income is from performing in Care homes, I have to sort out all in prices for each residency, send marketing material, send off info to new clients, as well as dealing with all the banking.
* Social media consultant- We spent much of module 1 going over just how much we use social media as a platform to promote ourselves and network to benefit our career. A huge amount of my time is spent updating my Linkd In and Facebook, putting up new promotional pictures, as well as messaging and networking to make new connections. It is so important to keep on top of it in order to progress in an ever developing technical world.
* Tele sales Communicator- As I am self employed, I have to go out and get my own work, being responsible for getting new gigs constantly. This involves cold calling residential homes,hotels, event organisers, selling my product (myself) in order to book new gigs. It requires an awful lot of patience and thick skin as often you are spoken to in a rude manner or simply cut off. I prepare 'script' guidelines in order to ensure I get all the relevant information in, with list of prices, shows etc.
* Music Technician/editor- Providing a variety of shows to a variety of audience, I am required to have a huge repertoire of music of different genres. In order for the shows to run smoothly and slick, I have to edit tracks; cut songs, mixing two together, ensuring all volumes are balanced to name a few things. I do all of this myself using software programs and apps, something I have had to teach myself over my professional life.
Other competences include: costume and set designer, producer, prop maker, human relations and business manager.
It is safe to say performers really have to be 'jack of all trades' going above and beyond the performing arts skills we trained in. I feel these competences will continue to grow in the future as my career develops, as I am creating a website and a branching out nationally. This will mean learning graphic design along with many other entrepreneurial skills involved with a growing business.
Tuesday, 23 February 2016
Life Lessons
Life lessons.
How does learning in the workplace compare to a controlled classroom environment?
I spent much of my childhood and young adult life, training; dance classes, vocal coaching, drama lessons, amateur theatre works.. You name it, I did it. I was preparing myself for life as a professional performer, spending hours perfecting my skills and techniques. Yet that controlled 'bubble' of the classroom or studio cannot begin to equip you for the life as a working professional. After studying Reader 4, I began thinking of the pros of both classroom learning, and then work based learning and how each aspect has developed me into the person I am today.
Controlled environment
My time at theatre school was without a doubt invaluable; laying all the solid foundations and skill sets needed to put me on my way as a performer. I set aside three whole years of dedicated time to focus on my technique and performance finesse, concentrating only on performing arts.
Learning these core skills in a safe and controlled environment, meant I could learn effectively without any pressure that sometimes occurs in working life. Therefore I was able to thrive without any fear of knock backs, allowing my confidence to build. Also I was lucky enough to have wonderful teachers, all with amazing experiences and knowledge that I could learn from directly. Each day I had immediate help and support, correcting my mistakes and mentoring me throughout my training.
As Sawyers suggests, college provided me with all the essential 'tools for learning' (Sawyers 1948, in Burleigh, 1973) in a safe and steady surrounding.
Work based learning- On the job
Whilst the controlled setting of college was first-rate, I feel I have learnt so much more since being out in the world of work in so many ways. Rather than being corrected on your mistakes, you simply have to learn from your experiences, and reflect upon how you can improve each and every time. For example, at college we did have mock auditions and castings to prepare us for when we graduate. However you can never anticipate just how much nerves affect you, or what situation you may be put in. I have found that the more auditions I do, the less nervous I become, being more in control of the situation and in turn being more successful.
I have also really improved my reflective skills, as unpredictable events can mean you have to think on your feet and reflect in-action in order to deal with these circumstances. For example I was booked to sing at a gig, being told the cliental was elderly, so prepared a set list suitable for their era. To my surprise I arrived, and in fact they were much younger than expected and really quite lively. I had to quickly adapt my set list so the songs were more appropriate and the audience would enjoy it. The gig was a huge success and I got many more bookings from this event. Had I just stuck with the original plan, I would have left the audience unsatisfied, yet this in-action thinking turned around the circumstances and improved the situation.
The Reader talks about inter- disciplinary skills, which I think is the most important factor of work based learning that no classes in college could have taught you. As a self employed performer I am not just a dancer or a singer; I am required to be so much more in order to get the work in and be successful. I am my own marketing manager, accountant, musical editor, tele sales communicator, administrator and social media consultant. All these factors are essential in getting work as a self employed performer and teacher, often over ruling the actual skill sets of performance if you want to maximise your success.
In conclusion, whilst classroom/studio learning is essential, I feel this is only to lay good foundations, however to really thrive we must take every opportunity as a working professional to learn and grow from our experiences and mistakes.
Feel free to leave comments on your opinions and arguments on this matter.
How does learning in the workplace compare to a controlled classroom environment?
I spent much of my childhood and young adult life, training; dance classes, vocal coaching, drama lessons, amateur theatre works.. You name it, I did it. I was preparing myself for life as a professional performer, spending hours perfecting my skills and techniques. Yet that controlled 'bubble' of the classroom or studio cannot begin to equip you for the life as a working professional. After studying Reader 4, I began thinking of the pros of both classroom learning, and then work based learning and how each aspect has developed me into the person I am today.
Controlled environment
My time at theatre school was without a doubt invaluable; laying all the solid foundations and skill sets needed to put me on my way as a performer. I set aside three whole years of dedicated time to focus on my technique and performance finesse, concentrating only on performing arts.
Learning these core skills in a safe and controlled environment, meant I could learn effectively without any pressure that sometimes occurs in working life. Therefore I was able to thrive without any fear of knock backs, allowing my confidence to build. Also I was lucky enough to have wonderful teachers, all with amazing experiences and knowledge that I could learn from directly. Each day I had immediate help and support, correcting my mistakes and mentoring me throughout my training.
As Sawyers suggests, college provided me with all the essential 'tools for learning' (Sawyers 1948, in Burleigh, 1973) in a safe and steady surrounding.
Work based learning- On the job
Whilst the controlled setting of college was first-rate, I feel I have learnt so much more since being out in the world of work in so many ways. Rather than being corrected on your mistakes, you simply have to learn from your experiences, and reflect upon how you can improve each and every time. For example, at college we did have mock auditions and castings to prepare us for when we graduate. However you can never anticipate just how much nerves affect you, or what situation you may be put in. I have found that the more auditions I do, the less nervous I become, being more in control of the situation and in turn being more successful.
I have also really improved my reflective skills, as unpredictable events can mean you have to think on your feet and reflect in-action in order to deal with these circumstances. For example I was booked to sing at a gig, being told the cliental was elderly, so prepared a set list suitable for their era. To my surprise I arrived, and in fact they were much younger than expected and really quite lively. I had to quickly adapt my set list so the songs were more appropriate and the audience would enjoy it. The gig was a huge success and I got many more bookings from this event. Had I just stuck with the original plan, I would have left the audience unsatisfied, yet this in-action thinking turned around the circumstances and improved the situation.
The Reader talks about inter- disciplinary skills, which I think is the most important factor of work based learning that no classes in college could have taught you. As a self employed performer I am not just a dancer or a singer; I am required to be so much more in order to get the work in and be successful. I am my own marketing manager, accountant, musical editor, tele sales communicator, administrator and social media consultant. All these factors are essential in getting work as a self employed performer and teacher, often over ruling the actual skill sets of performance if you want to maximise your success.
In conclusion, whilst classroom/studio learning is essential, I feel this is only to lay good foundations, however to really thrive we must take every opportunity as a working professional to learn and grow from our experiences and mistakes.
Feel free to leave comments on your opinions and arguments on this matter.
Module 2- A fresh Term!
So it seems like forever since I last posted a blog, and am finding it weird and quite difficult getting back into the swing of things. I have begun reading through the handbook and Readers, sussing out what I would like to research and inquire about. The next couple of blogs will be just my initial thoughts as a whole, in order for me to process everything before making choices.
I am looking forward to getting my teeth into this module and progressing in my BAPP course!
I am looking forward to getting my teeth into this module and progressing in my BAPP course!
Monday, 21 December 2015
Task 3D
• Do some very specific ideas emerge about your networking and sources? Does your engagement to date seem appropriate? Limited? Focused? Planned? Unplanned?
Over the course of this module, I feel I have learnt so much about my networking and how I can improve my skills in the future. Although I am quite a focused person, I feel I am quite limited because of my location. I am based up North, so struggle to make those London connections as often as I like. I have planned several trips down to London in the near future, to attend classes and see some shows, so I feel more connected to my industry again, and will try to make this a regular thing, (work depending). Previous BAPP student Georgie Bird mentions how she was making an attempt to network and 'mingle' more, which I think is an important step in making those connections within the performing arts world. If we keep ourselves hidden away, behind a computer, although certain connections will be made, no real established relationships can be solidified, therefore you will get left behind.
• Are your ideas, position or concerns shared by others within and/or beyond your professional area of work?
It is both interesting and reassuring to see many others share similar opinions to myself, seemingly expressing the same thoughts and opinions about issues and topics raised within this module. Cassie Vercoe and I were discussing the importance of networking and that each person is like a cog in a machine, and although some people naturally take higher rankings, every single person is an important component, that simply wouldn't work without them. Looking through Cassie's blog, it is clear we share many of the same thoughts and concerns about the industry particularly in terms of networking and having trust and respect for other professionals around you in order to gain this back yourself.
• Does sharing ideas and communicating with others shift your thinking, planning or practice?
I enjoy discussing different ideas with others as I feel you further your understanding, whilst questioning and expanding your own thoughts and opinions. As mentioned in previous blogs, Bethany Huckle and I were discussing the importance of 'word of mouth' in this industry to gain information rather than Web 2.0. This was a great discussion for me as I was focusing before on networking more online, yet this discussion really shifted my thinking and now think 'word of mouth' is still as effective, even though technology have taken over certain aspects. The more you communicate with others, the more information you learn , which sparks my thought process into expanding to more ideas. For example Francois was discussing communities of practice and talks about everyone involved in putting in a performance. From costume and lighting, to directors, to stage management each person plays a vital role in a successful production. This post provoked my thinking and enabled me to understand more clearly the importance of networking, not only with people directly In your field, but a whole community of professions, that all join together to create a show,concert, film etc.
• Does critical reflection help you decide what really matters and the actions to take?
Before BAPP, of course I would reflect upon my actions in order to improve, but not in the way critical reflection throughout this module has made me look in depth to my actions. The journal writing experience was particularly effective in my reflective process, as I have never wrote down my actions of the days events before. By doing this I have to thoroughly go through each part of my practice, commenting on good and bad points, making the process much more in depth and thoughtful. I know use journal writing regularly to help me with my own critical reflection, looking upon my work and seeing how I can improve and grow as a professional. I really enjoyed Sophie Donald's blog 'Journal Writing experience' as she demonstrated ways of formatting journal entries, which I found helpful in my own journals. It's great to draw inspiration from fellow students, finding new and interesting ways of communicating your ideas.
• To what extent do concepts and theories assist you in thinking about your professional networking in different ways? And do these different ways of thinking have some purpose for you?
As discussed in previous blogs, concepts and theories so assist me in my professional thinking, but on many different levels. I feel it is most important to read up on many theories, whilst always thinking how they are directly relevant to your practice. Then take the aspects of that and use them in your networking, but do not solely latch onto one theory.
• Are you left thinking differently prior to this part of the module? And if so, how
I would not say I am thinking completely differently, but simply more in depth. Whilst a lot of the knowledge I have learnt over this module, has been an extension of what I already know, I know aim to not take things simply on face value but to be more aware of myself and my working environment. I aim to reflect much more, in order to grow and develop, whilst a challenging my thoughts and ideas reading up on more practitioners as the course continues.
Over the course of this module, I feel I have learnt so much about my networking and how I can improve my skills in the future. Although I am quite a focused person, I feel I am quite limited because of my location. I am based up North, so struggle to make those London connections as often as I like. I have planned several trips down to London in the near future, to attend classes and see some shows, so I feel more connected to my industry again, and will try to make this a regular thing, (work depending). Previous BAPP student Georgie Bird mentions how she was making an attempt to network and 'mingle' more, which I think is an important step in making those connections within the performing arts world. If we keep ourselves hidden away, behind a computer, although certain connections will be made, no real established relationships can be solidified, therefore you will get left behind.
• Are your ideas, position or concerns shared by others within and/or beyond your professional area of work?
It is both interesting and reassuring to see many others share similar opinions to myself, seemingly expressing the same thoughts and opinions about issues and topics raised within this module. Cassie Vercoe and I were discussing the importance of networking and that each person is like a cog in a machine, and although some people naturally take higher rankings, every single person is an important component, that simply wouldn't work without them. Looking through Cassie's blog, it is clear we share many of the same thoughts and concerns about the industry particularly in terms of networking and having trust and respect for other professionals around you in order to gain this back yourself.
• Does sharing ideas and communicating with others shift your thinking, planning or practice?
I enjoy discussing different ideas with others as I feel you further your understanding, whilst questioning and expanding your own thoughts and opinions. As mentioned in previous blogs, Bethany Huckle and I were discussing the importance of 'word of mouth' in this industry to gain information rather than Web 2.0. This was a great discussion for me as I was focusing before on networking more online, yet this discussion really shifted my thinking and now think 'word of mouth' is still as effective, even though technology have taken over certain aspects. The more you communicate with others, the more information you learn , which sparks my thought process into expanding to more ideas. For example Francois was discussing communities of practice and talks about everyone involved in putting in a performance. From costume and lighting, to directors, to stage management each person plays a vital role in a successful production. This post provoked my thinking and enabled me to understand more clearly the importance of networking, not only with people directly In your field, but a whole community of professions, that all join together to create a show,concert, film etc.
• Does critical reflection help you decide what really matters and the actions to take?
Before BAPP, of course I would reflect upon my actions in order to improve, but not in the way critical reflection throughout this module has made me look in depth to my actions. The journal writing experience was particularly effective in my reflective process, as I have never wrote down my actions of the days events before. By doing this I have to thoroughly go through each part of my practice, commenting on good and bad points, making the process much more in depth and thoughtful. I know use journal writing regularly to help me with my own critical reflection, looking upon my work and seeing how I can improve and grow as a professional. I really enjoyed Sophie Donald's blog 'Journal Writing experience' as she demonstrated ways of formatting journal entries, which I found helpful in my own journals. It's great to draw inspiration from fellow students, finding new and interesting ways of communicating your ideas.
• To what extent do concepts and theories assist you in thinking about your professional networking in different ways? And do these different ways of thinking have some purpose for you?
As discussed in previous blogs, concepts and theories so assist me in my professional thinking, but on many different levels. I feel it is most important to read up on many theories, whilst always thinking how they are directly relevant to your practice. Then take the aspects of that and use them in your networking, but do not solely latch onto one theory.
• Are you left thinking differently prior to this part of the module? And if so, how
I would not say I am thinking completely differently, but simply more in depth. Whilst a lot of the knowledge I have learnt over this module, has been an extension of what I already know, I know aim to not take things simply on face value but to be more aware of myself and my working environment. I aim to reflect much more, in order to grow and develop, whilst a challenging my thoughts and ideas reading up on more practitioners as the course continues.
Thursday, 10 December 2015
Task 3C Sources of information
Task 3c
Sources of information
Throughout my training and professional life, I have used a variety of sources to find out about upcoming auditions, new shows, latest crazes as well as general info about the industry. I strive to remain proactive at all times, which means me constantly searching for new ideas and fresh information to keep up with an ever changing business.
Over the years these sources have changed slightly, as technology has become more and more advanced and we can now access everything on our phone. Since being a young girl I used to get 'The Stage' newspaper; a regular update on what shows we're coming up, reviews and interviews with producers and directors as well as auditions and castings. It has been a go to item for many performers over the years as it provides a current snapshot of the industry with information on every aspect for you to easily access. Now it is even easier as they publish an e copy for you to access on your tablet and phone, so you can get to this information much quicker. I have 'The Stage' app so I can constantly look for updates without having to wait to go to the newsagents to buy a copy. There is also Spotlight, which is updated daily, giving information and breakdowns of auditions and castings you may be suitable for. Because they always update and change, it is so important to remain proactive to ensure you do not miss anything.
This module has covered the importance of Web 2.0, and again I am stressing just how heavily the industry depends on portals such as Facebook and Twitter for sharing news and information quickly and effectively. I use Facebook groups such as 'the Hustle' and 'British Actors Network' to find out about auditions, as well as information about other topics. For example, some people expose bad companies warning performers to stay away, so you stay safe from scams and unfair treatment . I also find out about new classes and workshops through these sites, as choreographers often post on these groups to advertise. As these groups are strictly for performers, you are kept in the loop of all things happening whilst feeling like part of a community. Twitter is a fantastic source of information too, as it is so fast paced, you here about things immediately, almost whilst it's happening. Most of my news I hear about first on Twitter as many people will quickly tweet an occurrence, during or shortly after a an event. One example of this was a West End show actually announced it's unexpected closure over Twitter, with the employers of the show finding out on this medium first before even being told in person. In this digital age, news travels so fast and we must utilise these social networking sites in order to keep ahead of the game.
This leads me on to my next source of information; my smart phone. What was once a humble device for calling is now an entire lifestyle with emails, texts, Skype and viber being just a few tools used on our phones. I remember in a group Skype session this module, one person mentioned how they were in a place of bad phone signal for a few days; during this time their agent tried to contact them for an audition, but couldn't reach their phone. It shows how we are expected to always be 'available' or 'online' as people are always trying to make contact, and if you are not on the end of a call, text or email you could miss out on many opportunities. As I am a freelance performer as well as a teacher, I am almost attached to my phone at all times, searching for new opportunities for gigs, or contacting schools to arrange classes, having to remain on the ball so I grasp every given opportunity.
Of course there is still the good old word of mouth for sourcing information, and often is an informal, yet successful way of finding out about things. Fellow BAPP student and blogger Bethany Huckle and I were discussing whether 'word of 'mouth' was in fact more Important than online in terms of networking. (See comments from Task 3a Current Networks). Although we do use the Web to connect with people a lot, this is far more impersonal and face to face contact is often much more effective. Meeting people and having conversations is a great way of sourcing information, whilst also building up networking skills. Lily Grundy seems to share this opinion with me, and it's great to know people do still prefer face to face contact, as we grasp a persons emotions and intentions much easier when we can physically see and hear them. We must however be careful of the accuracy of information when gained through conversation, as this may not be completely correct, so it is important to always follow it up and check all the details are correct.
The last source of information is Television. Each morning the first thing I do is switch on the news to find out about occurrences around the globe. This also includes the arts and showbiz, which of course is directly relevant to my profession. You may also see snippets from new works, films and shows, giving you an insight into what's around at the time. I also use the music channels as a source of inspiration for choreography, taking ideas to use within my classes, and to also see what is relevant and 'in' at the moment. Television is also a great source of information of pop culture, fashion and music and style. I often take tips from fashion and lifestyle programs and apply them within my work. I sometimes work as a promotional model so it is important to keep up to date with trends and looks that are appealing to potential clients, sourcing this all from the television.
These are the sources I use most frequently, but of course we gather information all the time from a number of other sources. The key is to stay focused and always look out for things that may be of use, you never know when you may need it.
Sources of information
Throughout my training and professional life, I have used a variety of sources to find out about upcoming auditions, new shows, latest crazes as well as general info about the industry. I strive to remain proactive at all times, which means me constantly searching for new ideas and fresh information to keep up with an ever changing business.
Over the years these sources have changed slightly, as technology has become more and more advanced and we can now access everything on our phone. Since being a young girl I used to get 'The Stage' newspaper; a regular update on what shows we're coming up, reviews and interviews with producers and directors as well as auditions and castings. It has been a go to item for many performers over the years as it provides a current snapshot of the industry with information on every aspect for you to easily access. Now it is even easier as they publish an e copy for you to access on your tablet and phone, so you can get to this information much quicker. I have 'The Stage' app so I can constantly look for updates without having to wait to go to the newsagents to buy a copy. There is also Spotlight, which is updated daily, giving information and breakdowns of auditions and castings you may be suitable for. Because they always update and change, it is so important to remain proactive to ensure you do not miss anything.
This module has covered the importance of Web 2.0, and again I am stressing just how heavily the industry depends on portals such as Facebook and Twitter for sharing news and information quickly and effectively. I use Facebook groups such as 'the Hustle' and 'British Actors Network' to find out about auditions, as well as information about other topics. For example, some people expose bad companies warning performers to stay away, so you stay safe from scams and unfair treatment . I also find out about new classes and workshops through these sites, as choreographers often post on these groups to advertise. As these groups are strictly for performers, you are kept in the loop of all things happening whilst feeling like part of a community. Twitter is a fantastic source of information too, as it is so fast paced, you here about things immediately, almost whilst it's happening. Most of my news I hear about first on Twitter as many people will quickly tweet an occurrence, during or shortly after a an event. One example of this was a West End show actually announced it's unexpected closure over Twitter, with the employers of the show finding out on this medium first before even being told in person. In this digital age, news travels so fast and we must utilise these social networking sites in order to keep ahead of the game.
This leads me on to my next source of information; my smart phone. What was once a humble device for calling is now an entire lifestyle with emails, texts, Skype and viber being just a few tools used on our phones. I remember in a group Skype session this module, one person mentioned how they were in a place of bad phone signal for a few days; during this time their agent tried to contact them for an audition, but couldn't reach their phone. It shows how we are expected to always be 'available' or 'online' as people are always trying to make contact, and if you are not on the end of a call, text or email you could miss out on many opportunities. As I am a freelance performer as well as a teacher, I am almost attached to my phone at all times, searching for new opportunities for gigs, or contacting schools to arrange classes, having to remain on the ball so I grasp every given opportunity.
Of course there is still the good old word of mouth for sourcing information, and often is an informal, yet successful way of finding out about things. Fellow BAPP student and blogger Bethany Huckle and I were discussing whether 'word of 'mouth' was in fact more Important than online in terms of networking. (See comments from Task 3a Current Networks). Although we do use the Web to connect with people a lot, this is far more impersonal and face to face contact is often much more effective. Meeting people and having conversations is a great way of sourcing information, whilst also building up networking skills. Lily Grundy seems to share this opinion with me, and it's great to know people do still prefer face to face contact, as we grasp a persons emotions and intentions much easier when we can physically see and hear them. We must however be careful of the accuracy of information when gained through conversation, as this may not be completely correct, so it is important to always follow it up and check all the details are correct.
The last source of information is Television. Each morning the first thing I do is switch on the news to find out about occurrences around the globe. This also includes the arts and showbiz, which of course is directly relevant to my profession. You may also see snippets from new works, films and shows, giving you an insight into what's around at the time. I also use the music channels as a source of inspiration for choreography, taking ideas to use within my classes, and to also see what is relevant and 'in' at the moment. Television is also a great source of information of pop culture, fashion and music and style. I often take tips from fashion and lifestyle programs and apply them within my work. I sometimes work as a promotional model so it is important to keep up to date with trends and looks that are appealing to potential clients, sourcing this all from the television.
These are the sources I use most frequently, but of course we gather information all the time from a number of other sources. The key is to stay focused and always look out for things that may be of use, you never know when you may need it.
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