OLIVIA THORN

Over the course of 2020 into 2021, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on performance all over the world. The importance of Performing Arts in any capacity, from TV, to Theatre, to live music has been showcased after being so suddenly no longer available. Leaving an absence in many people's lives, from the professional performers without work, to the audience/viewers unable to watch and support. It has undoubtedly proven how integral the Performance Industry's role is in entertainment, escapism and simply keeping the world sane! I am aware of the struggles all performers are currently facing. Having recently graduated from University (virtually of course) I felt ready to try and build a career as a triple threat performer. However, due to these unforeseen circumstances this has not quite been the start I had hoped for! 

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It is essential to maintain your level of skill and knowledge in the area you wish to be successful when not in training or work. But this takes time, effort and motivation which is difficult to muster in Lock-down without the facilities and space - definitely easy to put on the back-burner! But it's beneficial to keep practising your craft and honing your individual skill-set so you are prepared for any opportunities that may arise in the future! Honing your skills gives you a better awareness of your strengths and weaknesses as a performer. Having weaknesses doesn't mean you are any less valuable - everyone has them! What is more valuable is to pinpoint what they are to learn how to best present yourself in the industry. Confidence and self assurance of the type of performer you are will make it easier to identify the jobs you should be going for. Of course, it's always a good idea to try and better the areas of weakness and keep learning. But it is invaluable to understand and be confident in what you offer as an individual, unique performer. 

A small project I set myself to maintain a routine of singing in Lock-down has been recording covers of some of my favourite songs and Musical Theatre numbers. Being at home, on furlough, in Lock-down, I have a lot of time on my hands! I use a free website/app called Soundtrap to record then upload to YouTube. I try and stick to a two week time frame to work within, aiming to upload a new song every 2 weeks. This is a good idea to do when working towards self set goals as it tends to boost motivation and productivity when there is a deadline. 

Just committing myself to this small project has helped me maintain some performance skills like acting through song and vocal strength and flexibility. It has also helped my mental and physical well-being as I feel active and productive - plus I'm doing what I love! The days can feel so monotonous and doing something you enjoy really breaks it up - so keep creating because, no unfortunately Theatre's aren't open yet, but that doesn't mean you can't create your own stage! 

 Even if a project is just for your own benefit and not intended to be seen or shared, I urge anyone struggling to keep up that momentum to have a sing or a dance! Even if that is around the kitchen or for a TikTok (as cringey as it may sound!).

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Success is personal and however one chooses to define it.

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So, although for many of us hope for a prosperous future in the industry is seeming farther away, it's in these personal achievements and milestones we should find the motivation to continue! And must recognise and credit ourselves for, especially in these strange times.

If you are interested in viewing some of my Lock-down covers, the link to my channel is just below, along with a link to the Theatre Support Fund page :)