It is important to have a goal, but so often we forget about the journey. It seems we tend to look for the final result. The joy is in the work.
That is where creativity begins. We draw from what we know and those who have gone before us. We all begin with a blank canvas, whether it is in art, music, dance, acting, writing, even mathematics and science.
To me, the work is a form of meditation. It is about being totally “in the moment.” Figuring out different paths to create a role or solve a problem – that is where the fun lives.
It can be frustrating and maddening at times. But what a feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment when a solution is found. I love performing, and that has its own satisfaction and creativity. But for me, rehearsal is where I have a great deal of fun.
In theater and film, there is so much joy in working and collaborating with the cast and the crew. We all have a function, and we all help to bring the project along.
As an actor, discovering the role through rehearsal with the director and the other actors. That is the joy.
As a fight director, I will often put my thoughts and ideas on paper. What fun it is to see the choreography come to life, and how it can change when the actors start to work on it. That is the joy.
As a director, working with all the actors and designers to create a production. That is the joy.
When the final product is completed, one can look back at the process and enjoy the feeling of accomplishment.
As a teacher, experiencing the progress of students and witnessing the delight on their faces when a moment of understanding is realized. That is the joy.
“Life is a journey, not a destination.” – attributed to Ralph Waldo Emerson
– Ron
Upcoming classes with Ron include Stage Combat Weekend Workshop starting 6/22, Beginner Acting Class I: The Basics starting 7/1, Beginner Acting Class II: Getting Specific starting 7/6, and Intermediate Scene Study I: Introduction to an Approach starting 7/12.
Check out TBG’s full schedule of classes, including Youth classes, camps, and intensives!