Student Blog: Keeping up the Momentum: How to Stay Artistically Active in the Summer

In the 3 months we have in between classes, some of us theatre students might not have an idea of what to do. Without classes, we may stay stagnant in the summer - missing dance, history, and acting classes, we tend to fall off the wagon, so to speak. Luckily enough, I have created a list of things to do to keep you artistically stimulated during the long summer break!

1. Cast Album Review

I'm sure there are some cast albums you haven't bothered to listen to - I certainly have a healthy backlog of recommendations that I haven't touched! Pick one cast album a week and listen to it multiple times. I always try to follow this pattern (similar to annotating a book!):

• Listen once the whole way through in optimal conditions (no yelling, loud noises, or distractions)
• Listen to individual songs again, looking at the lyrics and writing down thoughts, emotions, etc.
• Listen a third time to identify your favorite songs from the album itself.

Of course, you don't HAVE to do any of this - I just find that most memories of cast albums come from my dedication and attention in listening to them. This is also helpful for finding repertoire!

2. Movie Night

I am a SUCKER for movie night (that's why I wrote an article about my favorite theatre-adjacent movies!). With platforms like BroadwayHD and National Theatre At Home, you can enjoy your theatre favorites from your couch. And with BroadwayHD currently boasting 339 productions (I counted myself!), you could watch 3 theatre-related films a day and still have some left over when school starts again.

3. Cast Your Own Jukebox Musical

Have you ever listened to an album and NEEDED a jukebox musical based on it? Well, you can cast your own!

Pick an album and create a story around it - maybe you could write a biopic like Beautiful, or engineer a story from scratch, like Head Over Heels! Weaving a story through song is always fun. and this is a great exercise to keep the creative juices flowing!

4. Foray into Other Media

Sometimes movie, TV, and non-theatre music need some love too! I always ask for recommendations from my friends, as they have varying tastes, and I always love finding something new! Who knows, you may end up getting a burst of inspiration for your next big project!

5. Put Together a Private Reading

Do you have friends? Do you have scripts you've had to read for class that are currently collecting dust? Well, gather together for a private reading! Readings are so much fun, especially when you're all actors. Cast the parts and make it casual - if you're able to see each other in person, gather outside with snacks, or have a fun late-night Zoom soirée if you are unable to be in person with each other. Either way, it's a great way to keep you and your friends artistically engaged!

6. Take a Dance Class

Even if you don't have a studio near you, you can participate in dance classes - virtually! Broadway Dance Center offers virtual classes via Zoom, and many other studios do too. If you are able to take one, a weekly dance class can be therapeutic and healing for the body.

With these six things, your summer should be PACKED with theatre-related activities to keep you engaged and creative! I hope that every student has an amazing summer break, and that it is restful and relaxing. Enjoy!

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