'Performance isn't really about being yourself. It's about portraying the idea that the composer/writer/choreographer has created.'
Through the eyes of the audiences, the stage means the beginning of not just entertainment; but judgement and critique. It is as similar as life is; quiet at the 'behind the scenes'. All that everyone notes is what's going on stage, not what's behind it.
Most of us have watched movies such as Step Up maybe; or Center Stage. Elsewhere, some people are aware of the state we performers are going through. But in our country, how many people actually really realize the reality of performing arts? They so often think performing arts are for people who are non-educated. Little did they realize that the challenge itself is equivalent to other forms of work or education. Except, our work is manifested to the public and based on performative structure.
In most people's mind, they often think that people involved in performing arts do nothing but perform.They forget that we too, have our own form of pressure; working hard to present the right interpretation to audiences. Yet, like what I mentioned, despite all these, people often judge from what is performed on stage; not knowing behind the scenes.
Most audiences are unaware of the blisters you get while dancing. They don't see those torn or wear out muscles you have. Neither do they feel the pressure of sitting in a room, getting all the right notes just to ensure that performances are performed at its best.
On stage, audiences see the smiles of the performer; but can't hear the fear beating in the heart of the performer. Neither do they witness the tears throughout all the tough training received. And still, they are mistreated. Envied. Put down. Judged, for not being the perfect beings in performance.
Performers are like rare daisies that pop up. They are like squirrels that bear the cold winter. In performing arts, its not just about the brain; but the mind and body. Instead, it's about mental and physical endurance. Like the law of evolution, only the stronger ones survive. If not, words of people can often discourage; sweeping sand from the shore, further into the ocean. Yes, despite the words of others, we either grow stronger or weaker.
If you know of anyone in performance, never tear them down; cause you'll never understand all the pain or sufferings they had undergone just to deliver a simple performance to you. I, for one should know. And if you were one of us, so would you.
Give them your support. Not tearing them down.
