Some of the greatest life lessons are the ones that I have learned through the arts. Everyone can apply these lessons and especially as college students. People involved in musical theatre are always doing what they can to improve their skills. Whether that is attending a two week musical theater intensive or taking an extra dance class good performers always look for feedback. Here is some soup for the soul.
1. If you are not connecting with your partner(on stage), what the heck is your purpose? Ray
This can also apply to friendships and relationships. Friendships are only real when there is mutual effort. Why are you doing something if you are not putting 100 percent effort into it? When you are performing you are supposed to imagine that there is someone right in front of you that getting this message across is a life or death situation. You will amazed with your friendships and relationships when you try to make them deeper.
2. I'm on my way, you can't stop me now, what have you done today to make you feel proud. - Stephen
Do not be afraid to take chances and never regret anything that you made you smile. In the summer of 2014, I attended a musical theatre intensive where our dance warmup always began with a song called Proud. The song talks about going out of your comfort zone and the amazing things that can happen when you do. Take risks and make sure to challenge yourself. Don't let anyone stop you from doing what you love.
3. It's not about the lyrics or the sound, it's about the storytelling and connection - Neil
This is basically saying that it's not always about the result, it's about the process and what you did to get there. You can also think of this as saying. it's not about what you did with people, it's about the emotion you felt. If people cannot see the pain in your eyes when you are singing then you are not putting 100 percent effort. The most important things in life are often abstract concepts like love.
4. Close your eyes, and feel the energy from everyone around you in this moment because it will never be the same exact way again. - Brian
You know that spark you feel in your eyes and stomach when you are with your friends and suddenly you forget about your stress? Remember those types of moments. Surround yourself with people that make you feel unstoppable. Some of my best memories how been the ones that were not photographed. Enjoy every moment that you have with your friends, family, cast etc because you can never really hit the rewind button.
