BWW Blog: Amanda Grillo - Luciana's Outlook: The Summer Reflection

Alas, the summer of 2016 draws to a close and I pack my bags for back to school in just a few short days. This summer has been one for the books. I learned a lot about myself, theatre, and life. If it wasn't for this production, I probably wouldn't have grasped those lessons as quickly, which is why I appreciate my friends and supporters that just tell it like it is. They know what I need to hear to get the point across. They know how to help me grow and aren't afraid to knock me down a few pegs if I get too high and mighty.

No production is absolutely perfect. Some mistakes just aren't as noticeable as others. Whether it be a dropped line or a malfunctioning set piece, how you handle the mistakes far outweighs what the mistake was. If you drop a line, you power through and get to the next cue.

Unless you are scripted to be physically alone on stage, you always have backup and even then actors are in the wings ready to jump into the next scene if all you remember is your very last line. A cast should be a tight knit team that has each other's backs. Whether it be contemporary or Shakespeare, the ability to carry on through any mistake is commendable.

Be adaptable. Plans can change and a lot of things can turn into hurry up and wait. Especially in outdoor theatre, adaptability is a necessity. Though directors may seem all mighty and powerful, they can't control the weather. Patience is more than appreciated if the schedule has to shift every now and then.

Stand up for yourself. Never let people take advantage of you. I was lucky enough that this production never took advantage of me. I always felt welcome, they utilized my presence instead of abusing it. They noticed my adaptable and easy going nature and took it upon themselves to make sure I knew when I needed to speak up about something. They took note of my passive quietness and used it as an opportunity to make sure I could stand up for myself when I needed. Not every group will be that kind. I am grateful for that and find myself a little more assertive than I was at the beginning of the summer.

These are just a few lessons from this summer that were reinforced in my mind. This summer was my second time tackling a Shakespearian role and it certainly won't be the last. People often wonder why I gravitate to community theatre versus trying to get bigger names on my resume right away. The answer is simple. Professional theatres and big names are great experiences and definitely a goal of mine. However, nothing compares to the comradery of community theatre. The lessons you learn there are about theatre, life, and self-growth. In theatre, I get so much joy out of seeing those around me grow. Nothing compares to the joy you feel for a fellow cast member who nails their big monologue; especially when this is their first time on stage ever. I will be adventuring to other productions and other theatres eventually, but even when I make it "big*" I'll always be willing to come back to this amazing group.

*In my opinion, I've already made it pretty big, but there is no limit to how much more I can grow.

Photos Credit: Jeannine Cigas

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