Just yesterday I had an audition for a cruise ship singer. The way I found out about the audition was through Talent Cast. (Career development and job website for the UK performing arts industry). I also got an email from Singerspro to apply for an audition. From there, I was speaking on Facebook to a friend who was currently with the cruise line about what they like/dislike, good song choices, image etc. I then, whilst at the audition added one girl I met on Twitter because we had a lot of common interests, and it's always good to keep connected to people who are going through a similar process.
That to me was a normal day, however looking back, it is interesting to see just how many different tools I used to connect me within my performing career.
Last week I decided to set up a doodlepoll to ask my friends, colleagues, ex Liverpool Theatre School students etc, on what they used in this day in age and help assist my blog when researching current networks. The results didn't particularly surprise me.
I asked 20 people in total 5 different questions. Some of the questions had answers to select, but there was also the ability for each individual to write their own comments.
17 people selected they used email as their main way of networking. 4 people in the comments were a little more specific. An ex colleague typed that she has a hotmail account for personal use but uses gmail syced to her computer and tablet for work. She is based within an IT company and spends a lot of her time working from home connecting to people from her own computer.
Two other people typed "gmail". I had never used gmail until I got my samsung phone. It requests you to sign up, however I barely use it other than for this blog/signing in to YouTube.
The comment that interested me most was that a friend of mine clicked email, however then elaborated in the comments. She stated that she barely sends or receives emails or even checks her inbox regarding her work/performing/auditions etc. She stated when she signed up to facebook, twitter, instagram and any internet shopping style website, she HAD to use her email address. So whilst she doesn't directly use emails a lot, she has to have it to use any other website.
Another question I asked within the doodlepoll was "What would your ideal network look like and why?"
Most people clicked that they were happy to use separate sites for separate purposes. One girl wrote "I would hate for my twitter and facebook to be connected. I use twitter for retweeting funny things, jokes, reposting vines, and commenting on TV programmes/films etc, and do this all without having my real name on show. The account is connect to my email address but I took the search off so even if people tried to find me based on my email, they couldn't. I use facebook and instagram connected, and do use these to connect with industry professionals, but twitter is a bit of fun for me".
Wheras another friend commented "I don't mind using all different websites, because most of them can all be connected in some way. You can share timehop on facebook and twitter, pinterest is also able to be shared on other websites, all these mainstream websites have the ability to create widgets (wikipedia - widgets) to use on blogs and websites, I don't really mind how I network at the minute at all".
Someone did say they wished facebook and twitter could be combined however to me, this doesn't make sense. 140 character status updates from twitter, along with facebook, the social networking site that enables you to put every life detail on if you wish, I don't think the two are similar, so don't see the point.
It's fairly straight forward to use different websites if you so wish. I don't know anyone without a smart phone anymore...Even my technophobe parents.
Nowadays, with computers/laptops, tablets, phones, you can access your networks anywhere. If every McDonalds and Starbucks has free wifi, and you have a smart phone, you can network near enough anywhere in the world.
I did put on the doodlepoll about face to face interaction, and all people selected it as a way they communicate, however no one mentioned it again in any of the comments, and I haven't in the above post.
The Huffington Post - Certain Things Are Better in Person - An interesting read on how face to face communication seems to be a lost art. He is talking from a business point of view but I feel it in everyday life. The amount of times I go out for a meal, with interesting people, yet find that all of us at some point are consumed by messaging someone else, or showing something we saw on our phone earlier that day. Has technology ruined our ability to communicate face to face?
My best friend Ted is a "traveller". I say that in quotes because he is currently a primary school teacher, but he spent last year in South America, he has lived in the UK, Australia, and will be flying in to Chile in July to continue travelling. I remember earlier this year he told me that in social situations, he vows not to check his phone. He turns it off, and doesn't check it again until he has left the persons company. Granted not every time, but I think it is a great way to live. (Here is a link to his blog Like A Backpacker)
This brings up many different questions. I got the above question Has technology ruined our ability to communicate face to face? from that link <
I would quote the article on here if I could, I urge you to read it. One key point - "You cannot fully realize the strength of that emotion through the click-clack of keys."
Considering the ethical concerns for networking in the workplace, a point I have mentioned before on my blog comes up again, internet safety. This doesn't just mean, don't let children see porn. For example, I currently work in a contact centre for a county council.
We have a system within the council for all staff members call Lync. It is similar to MSN/Windows Live messenger. You can instant message other colleagues and from there chat, use emoticons and have group conversations.
Recently a staff member was sacked after an investigation of Lync use proved her to be discriminatory regarding another staff member. In this instance, face to face interaction (with the other member of staff she was chatting too) would have saved her her job.
We are not allowed to use our phones in the office when on calls (sounds obvious, but people do try) and also not allowed to use the internet for purposes other than work, unless on a break.
Managing the Workplace Ethics of Social Media ..."as with all business topics, a company can successfully manage its own and its employees’ personal use of it by employing a common framework applied to most other ethics and compliance topics, albeit with some modifications specific to social media"
Our contracts have recently been changed in my company to ensure people know the consequences of misuse of company resources.
Whilst there a risks in every day life when networking and using social media, I think now in 2014, we are at an ok stage where companies, and websites are adapting everyday to make these websites and apps as safe, accessible and risk free as possible.
Wednesday 10 December 2014
Wednesday 3 December 2014
Task 2d. Inquiry
Sorry for the delay since my last post. I have been sunning myself in Florida, after a weeks tour of the sunshine state!
I have thoroughly enjoyed the thoughts I developed through this inquiry. Whilst I am a performer, and somewhat extrovert, I do love my own company, my own thoughts and alone time.
Thinking about my own personal reflection, and what gets my 'mojo' going, depends on what's in store for that day/week/month. One thing it always comes down to though, is singing.
I am a trained musical theatre performer, however many of the people I admire, or in some cases idolise are in different professions.
Theatrically, Sutton Foster is an inspiration. She is of a similar vocal range to mine so I often fine clips of her singing songs I am looking in to performing or auditioning with. She is a strong dancer, with tap and a great actress. She has been used many times in premiere Broadway performances or revivals and overall is a strong successful Musical Theatre performer. She has the Tony awards to prove it. A personal favourite performance on youtube is this: Sutton Foster - Thoroughly Modern Millie
Last week, I saw one of my favourite bands final ever performance, as they are ending their career as "Anberlin". They will all continue personal projects but as a band, and 12 years on from their first song release, they are quitting while they're ahead. This band was the soundtrack to my teen years. I had to see them one final time, even if it meant flying to Florida.
I am very passionate about music. My idol is Ben Gibbard, frontman of Death Cab for Cutie (and The Postal Service, All Time Quarterback). It is literally top of my bucketlist to see him perform live. I nearly had chance to last year on 2 seperate occasions, but couldn't afford to fly back from New Zealand for it. Death Cab for Cutie - He's a lyrical genius (and bonafide hottie.) Through some of my personal lowest points in life, music is what's got me through.
Don't get me wrong though, some of the happiest points in my life have been because i've been the one singing!
On a day to day basis I listen to music, whether its walking to work or back, or in the shower. I get a buzz off it, and can't remember the last time I went a day without it! It just makes me happy. Another thing I do near enough daily is youtube/vine. Vine is hilarious and youtube is just heaven! I regularly watch short funny clips on vine and can often be found in glorious corners of youtube stalking the likes of Natalie Weiss for musical gems (Royals with Tap!).
Something I notice a lot of on these sites, is "haters". Whether they are criticising the vocals, the look, the length of the bleedin video, they always seem to find something to bitch about. I imagine most of these people are brave behind the screen but wouldn't dare tell someone they were fat to their face.
Be kind to people!
I have thoroughly enjoyed the thoughts I developed through this inquiry. Whilst I am a performer, and somewhat extrovert, I do love my own company, my own thoughts and alone time.
Thinking about my own personal reflection, and what gets my 'mojo' going, depends on what's in store for that day/week/month. One thing it always comes down to though, is singing.
I am a trained musical theatre performer, however many of the people I admire, or in some cases idolise are in different professions.
Theatrically, Sutton Foster is an inspiration. She is of a similar vocal range to mine so I often fine clips of her singing songs I am looking in to performing or auditioning with. She is a strong dancer, with tap and a great actress. She has been used many times in premiere Broadway performances or revivals and overall is a strong successful Musical Theatre performer. She has the Tony awards to prove it. A personal favourite performance on youtube is this: Sutton Foster - Thoroughly Modern Millie
Last week, I saw one of my favourite bands final ever performance, as they are ending their career as "Anberlin". They will all continue personal projects but as a band, and 12 years on from their first song release, they are quitting while they're ahead. This band was the soundtrack to my teen years. I had to see them one final time, even if it meant flying to Florida.
I am very passionate about music. My idol is Ben Gibbard, frontman of Death Cab for Cutie (and The Postal Service, All Time Quarterback). It is literally top of my bucketlist to see him perform live. I nearly had chance to last year on 2 seperate occasions, but couldn't afford to fly back from New Zealand for it. Death Cab for Cutie - He's a lyrical genius (and bonafide hottie.) Through some of my personal lowest points in life, music is what's got me through.
Don't get me wrong though, some of the happiest points in my life have been because i've been the one singing!
On a day to day basis I listen to music, whether its walking to work or back, or in the shower. I get a buzz off it, and can't remember the last time I went a day without it! It just makes me happy. Another thing I do near enough daily is youtube/vine. Vine is hilarious and youtube is just heaven! I regularly watch short funny clips on vine and can often be found in glorious corners of youtube stalking the likes of Natalie Weiss for musical gems (Royals with Tap!).
Something I notice a lot of on these sites, is "haters". Whether they are criticising the vocals, the look, the length of the bleedin video, they always seem to find something to bitch about. I imagine most of these people are brave behind the screen but wouldn't dare tell someone they were fat to their face.
I have mentioned both of these types of the above before. Firstly internet safety, the fact that I can see Miranda sings has a &^%*&^*& on youtube outwardly for anyone to read worries me! Also, the fact that people are so willing to slate other people.
The world needs to change. Sadly, it won't.
The "musical theatre" world seems a lot more forgiving than the "pop" world. If someone hit's a bad note, you may get the odd "sharp!" comment, or you'll get the odd "she had been ill all week before this performance, lay off her!!!" - but generally, you get people complimenting another artists work where deserved.
This video is of me and Victoria, from our 3rd year showcase at Liverpool Theatre School back in 2009. 25k+ views on youtube and nothing but sweet comments What Kind of Girl is She [title of show]
Go to a video of Ariana Grande, and some people say she can't sing, some people think she's too skinny and the others are just chatting nonsense because they feel brave. When actually, she's a pretty, awesome singer. I wish I could hit them whistle notes!
I feel quite passionately on how people are so quick and easy to slate another human being, yet compliments seem few and far between.
I currently feel very out of shape. I am the largest I've ever been, now a size 11/12, and feel totally unhealthy. I am battling with myself not to do a show I've had the opportunity to feature in, which is a 2 hours, twice a week rehearsal period for 6 months, to instead focus that time on going the gym. It sounds crazy to my friends but I just feel horrendous! I would like to be a size 10 again, so not a huge ask but I am busy with uni, an evening Maths course at local college, working 38 hours a week AND trying to squeeze in auditions where possible. I feel too large for show business, and something needs to change.
I'm still trying to work out if this is all my own feelings, or because of the industry, I feel more pressured. Either way, I think it only fair to myself, to be the best possible version of me that I can be.
My nephew Charlie was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year. He is 10 years old.
Thankfully, he is now in remission, but my goodness I had never felt feelings like it. This year, his Christmas list to Santa asked for some lego toy and that Santa definitely visits those on his old ward at Birmingham Children's Hospital with presents. - I think we can all learn from Charlie. Be kind to people!
Sunday 16 November 2014
Task 2c. Reflective Theory
The communication technologies I use in my profession are used daily. Being a choreographer, I have to document my work down, in order to relay it back to the performers I teach it too, I may record myself doing it, and assign the video to Dropbox for them to go back and watch. I regularly post on Facebook to keep people motivated and to ensure they don't have any questions for me or if they do, they feel they can approach me. Web 2.0 is within my work and as I reflect back on my work, my profession, I feel that I have been using reflective practice for many years.
Looking at David Walker Journals, it's clear to see that his method of working is by documenting on a regular basis. By writing down your daily or weekly events, it aids reflection. By being able to look back on your work can clarify experiences and you can capture data for later use in your practice and use it to extend your work and as a way of growing.
As a choreographer, I feel this is an incredibly useful way of learning. Whilst choreographers have every intention of being unique, fresh, individual, they will reuse work, movement, ideas that they have done before. Whether it is in a documented journal form, or in video form, choreographers regularly rethink previous routines and moves to use again and again in their work.
As Schön says, "The reflective practitioner 're-frames problems' to create a reflective conversation in which practice 'talks back'. In this reflective conversation, the practitioner's effort to solve the reframed problems yield new discoveries which call for new reflection-in-action. The process spirals through stages appreciation, action, and re-appreciation. The unique and uncertain situation comes to be understood through the attempt to change it, and changed through the attempt to understand it." (Schön 1983: 132).
Choreographers are often going through states of appreciation, action, and re-appreciation. It's how they can create a piece of work they are proud of, that works with staging and lighting, and through this constant change, they discover different and new formats of choreography. I have often intended something completely different to how it looks when I have people performing it (not just me doing it in my lounge envisaging it with 12 people!) The end result actually had a totally different yet more impressive outcome.
Kolb's learning cycle:
I feel I start at abstract conceptualisation. Reading into the cycle, from a choreographers point of view, I am very much someone who acts on something, then develops the piece of work, then deliberates how that now influences any further movement in the routine, to having something in concrete and being able to reflect upon that.
Looking on the internet, not everyone is certain Kolb's learning cycle is relevant.
Reading a blog by Steve Wheeler on the internet he states "...many still continue to refer to Kolb's model as an important model of learning. This is questionable. One view is that the experiential learning model is increasingly irrelevant in an age where social media, and social learning are increasingly prevalent. It is worth revisiting Kolb's model to explore its criticisms and weaknesses"
It is interesting how he mentions this now being an age of social media and social learning at it's peak. I am 26 years old, and feel for most of my life I have been an in age of social media and social learning prevalence.
I am wanting to go in to teaching of Dance and Performing Arts. I feel reflective practice is essential for such a job. With extensive preparation, and not knowing exactly what lies ahead in forms of students and their behavior in each class, you have to have be able to think on your feet whilst having work prepared.
I recently read this "reflective teaching requires that public theories are translated into personal ones and vice versa unless teachers are going to allow themselves to be turned into low level operatives" (Griffiths and Tann 1991: 100)
It is interesting that actually, as a teacher, you may have to research and teach something you may not fully believe in, or have argument against. This is where Kolb's learning cycle, in my opinion, is vital. You want to be able to, in such a clock wise fashion, explore the rights/wrongs/pro's/cons in everything you do whilst enabling the students to speak freely with their own opinions.
Taken from Dani's blog, on this course, she stated "I believe that, as dancers and performers, our backgrounds impact on the way we reflect and therefore learn. I think that, without most of us realising it, we are utilising Schon's theory of Reflection-In-Action most of the time: when training we learn and remember the steps to a routine by doing them, when performing we correct our positioning, allow for variations in the staging and react to the music..."
The research and knowledge I have gained from this task has been excellent for my development in Professional Practice. I am somewhat in agreeance with Steve Wheeler whose blog I quoted above, that whilst there are so many methods and tables and theories, we are now in an age of social media and digital learning, that we need to explore far more different ways of learning.
Not only are we able to keep journals, we can keep blogs, photo and video accounts to present our work to others.
Future developments aid the professional practice in this day in age just as much as past methods.
Looking at David Walker Journals, it's clear to see that his method of working is by documenting on a regular basis. By writing down your daily or weekly events, it aids reflection. By being able to look back on your work can clarify experiences and you can capture data for later use in your practice and use it to extend your work and as a way of growing.
As a choreographer, I feel this is an incredibly useful way of learning. Whilst choreographers have every intention of being unique, fresh, individual, they will reuse work, movement, ideas that they have done before. Whether it is in a documented journal form, or in video form, choreographers regularly rethink previous routines and moves to use again and again in their work.
As Schön says, "The reflective practitioner 're-frames problems' to create a reflective conversation in which practice 'talks back'. In this reflective conversation, the practitioner's effort to solve the reframed problems yield new discoveries which call for new reflection-in-action. The process spirals through stages appreciation, action, and re-appreciation. The unique and uncertain situation comes to be understood through the attempt to change it, and changed through the attempt to understand it." (Schön 1983: 132).
Choreographers are often going through states of appreciation, action, and re-appreciation. It's how they can create a piece of work they are proud of, that works with staging and lighting, and through this constant change, they discover different and new formats of choreography. I have often intended something completely different to how it looks when I have people performing it (not just me doing it in my lounge envisaging it with 12 people!) The end result actually had a totally different yet more impressive outcome.
Kolb's learning cycle:
Looking on the internet, not everyone is certain Kolb's learning cycle is relevant.
Reading a blog by Steve Wheeler on the internet he states "...many still continue to refer to Kolb's model as an important model of learning. This is questionable. One view is that the experiential learning model is increasingly irrelevant in an age where social media, and social learning are increasingly prevalent. It is worth revisiting Kolb's model to explore its criticisms and weaknesses"
It is interesting how he mentions this now being an age of social media and social learning at it's peak. I am 26 years old, and feel for most of my life I have been an in age of social media and social learning prevalence.
I am wanting to go in to teaching of Dance and Performing Arts. I feel reflective practice is essential for such a job. With extensive preparation, and not knowing exactly what lies ahead in forms of students and their behavior in each class, you have to have be able to think on your feet whilst having work prepared.
I recently read this "reflective teaching requires that public theories are translated into personal ones and vice versa unless teachers are going to allow themselves to be turned into low level operatives" (Griffiths and Tann 1991: 100)
It is interesting that actually, as a teacher, you may have to research and teach something you may not fully believe in, or have argument against. This is where Kolb's learning cycle, in my opinion, is vital. You want to be able to, in such a clock wise fashion, explore the rights/wrongs/pro's/cons in everything you do whilst enabling the students to speak freely with their own opinions.
Taken from Dani's blog, on this course, she stated "I believe that, as dancers and performers, our backgrounds impact on the way we reflect and therefore learn. I think that, without most of us realising it, we are utilising Schon's theory of Reflection-In-Action most of the time: when training we learn and remember the steps to a routine by doing them, when performing we correct our positioning, allow for variations in the staging and react to the music..."
The research and knowledge I have gained from this task has been excellent for my development in Professional Practice. I am somewhat in agreeance with Steve Wheeler whose blog I quoted above, that whilst there are so many methods and tables and theories, we are now in an age of social media and digital learning, that we need to explore far more different ways of learning.
Not only are we able to keep journals, we can keep blogs, photo and video accounts to present our work to others.
Future developments aid the professional practice in this day in age just as much as past methods.
Tuesday 4 November 2014
Task 2b - Reflective Writing
Based on the piece of writing I used in Task 2a, I am going to reevaluate that in several different forms. I have typed up the peice, so it is easier to read.
I think I generally had this in the descriptive form.
Elaborating in different forms for this particular piece will be easy as it was quite a memorable day.
Initial Reflection:
An overall personal mood was enthused and excitable were the general emotions, with a mixture of tiredness towards the end. I think the initial reflection and description were both interpreted with my original journal entry.
List:
People - Cast of Annie
15 man band + instruments,
Children,
Chaperones,
Dog
Big events -
Hearing the band for the first time,
First time rehearsing on stage,
First time in costume
Feelings -
Hearing the band for the first time, elated.
Costumes on for the first time, excited, surprised
Food - Cake,
Evaluation:
Overall the tech run and dress rehearsals were a great success. It is always difficult for the first time getting costumes, having microphones, the lights on you etc and it does give you a buzz like no other, but once it is all in place, and you warm up into it, within minutes you wouldn't have it any other way. After a 6 month build up to a performance it's expected to feel slightly nervous but because it's so structured and well prepared, it works well.
Graph or chart:
I always wonder what would happen if I forgot my lines. Would I panic on stage, or would I cover it well? I did do a show last year and I was extremely unwell, I shouldn't have gone on really, and I did just blank and stop dancing. I have been performing on stage since the age of 3 and it has only happened that one time. I hope it never happens again!
Another view:
From another cast member, seeing the day through their eyes, I can't imagine it would be too different. We were all excited and eager to get cracking on with everything so it would all be rather similar.
If one of my friends was witnessing the day who isn't part of the show, I think they would probably find it all a bit over the top. Band call, lunch in a huge group, theatre for make up and clothes, running through and picking out tiny little things to change...I could imagine it being all a bit strange to an "outsider".
Personally, upon reflection of writing in a journal, it was an unusual experience.
I found myself rambling, like I needed to fill the page. If anything, looking on the above post, and my writing throughout my journal, I much preferred the idea of lists or graphs. I do find myself to be organised and somewhat compulsive at times.
I write a TO DO list everyday and tick things off one by one. I often find myself writing on my calender everything to do, down to when to drink water or what time I need to go to sleep by based on my shift patterns at work.
Whilst my organisational skills are impeccable, it sometimes means free writing, or perhaps relaxing into a task a little more difficult.
Definitely something I can reflect and work on for future!
I think I generally had this in the descriptive form.
Elaborating in different forms for this particular piece will be easy as it was quite a memorable day.
Initial Reflection:
An overall personal mood was enthused and excitable were the general emotions, with a mixture of tiredness towards the end. I think the initial reflection and description were both interpreted with my original journal entry.
List:
People - Cast of Annie
15 man band + instruments,
Children,
Chaperones,
Dog
Big events -
Hearing the band for the first time,
First time rehearsing on stage,
First time in costume
Feelings -
Hearing the band for the first time, elated.
Costumes on for the first time, excited, surprised
Food - Cake,
Evaluation:
Overall the tech run and dress rehearsals were a great success. It is always difficult for the first time getting costumes, having microphones, the lights on you etc and it does give you a buzz like no other, but once it is all in place, and you warm up into it, within minutes you wouldn't have it any other way. After a 6 month build up to a performance it's expected to feel slightly nervous but because it's so structured and well prepared, it works well.
Graph or chart:
What if:
If I had my way, i'd of been doing this show 15 years previous and i'd be playing Annie!
I always day dream when doing local theatre shows about what would happen if a big casting director was in the audience and next thing I know i've been snapped me up for a huge recurring role on Glee or something! I always wonder what would happen if I forgot my lines. Would I panic on stage, or would I cover it well? I did do a show last year and I was extremely unwell, I shouldn't have gone on really, and I did just blank and stop dancing. I have been performing on stage since the age of 3 and it has only happened that one time. I hope it never happens again!
Another view:
From another cast member, seeing the day through their eyes, I can't imagine it would be too different. We were all excited and eager to get cracking on with everything so it would all be rather similar.
If one of my friends was witnessing the day who isn't part of the show, I think they would probably find it all a bit over the top. Band call, lunch in a huge group, theatre for make up and clothes, running through and picking out tiny little things to change...I could imagine it being all a bit strange to an "outsider".
Personally, upon reflection of writing in a journal, it was an unusual experience.
I found myself rambling, like I needed to fill the page. If anything, looking on the above post, and my writing throughout my journal, I much preferred the idea of lists or graphs. I do find myself to be organised and somewhat compulsive at times.
I write a TO DO list everyday and tick things off one by one. I often find myself writing on my calender everything to do, down to when to drink water or what time I need to go to sleep by based on my shift patterns at work.
Whilst my organisational skills are impeccable, it sometimes means free writing, or perhaps relaxing into a task a little more difficult.
Definitely something I can reflect and work on for future!
Task 2a. Reflective Practice
I have found writing a journal slightly time consuming however also theraputic to a certain degree.
I much prefer typing and blogging but it is certainly interesting to pick up a pen and write about the days events
I much prefer typing and blogging but it is certainly interesting to pick up a pen and write about the days events
Saturday 25 October 2014
Why is image so vital to be a good performer?
As someone who has never had a blog before, i'm slowly getting used to the idea of just writing.
I am enjoying all the research I am reading from other blogs, news articles and different websites.
Something I have come across a handful of times now, is about a performers "image".
I for one, like to take pride in my appearance in day to day life. But when it comes to performing I suddenly feel an overwhelming need to look immaculate.
Just last week I performed in Annie as Lily St. Regis. Lily is a flirtacious, glamorous young lady.
Eveyday I would be preparing my hair for the wig, glueing on my fake eye lashes, applying stage foundation, blusher, red lipstick, tights, high heels etc. Yet I still looked at pictures from the opening night, dissatisfied.
I don't find this surprising. No wonder there is such a complex with appearance in this day in age. Constantly we're seeing articles such as Nikki Minaj untouched - Spot the difference! or The Science Behind Renee Zellwegers new Face - It's utterly ridiculous.
Last week a friend mentioned that she, as a singer on a cruise ship, is weighed weekly. I was a bit flabbergasted at this (pun intended). My weight fluctuates A LOT but my clothes never seem to fit differently, but it's actually factual in her case, that if she went up in weight by 3lbs, she would be sacked.
I can gain 4lbs throughout the day sometimes if I've been out to dinner and perhaps been a bit lazy!
Which led me to this question.
Why is image so vital to be a good performer?
There are SO many different outlooks.
Ballet dancers for example. Ballet dancers have incredible physiques. They are pure muscle! I guarantee some weigh a lot more than you would think. Just because they may wear UK size 6 clothes, does not mean they won't weigh the same as a "normal" size UK 12 female... Muscle weighs a lot more than fat.
Would they be sacked if they "weighed" differently one week to the next... I don't know, but my goodness, one would hope not.
Trying to understand these odd "weight rules" had me thinking of WHY.
Ok, they have costumes made to measure each individual... I'm pretty sure we would all know if our clothes were a bit tighter than previously. I am more than aware when I have perhaps gained a bit of weight (and even more so if I had lost ;)) but surely, that is enough to keep you in check? Would they sack someone if they went from 9 stone, to 8 and a half? Somehow I doubt that and this disappoints me.
IF the costumes is the main factor, then surely having your measurements taken each week or month would be far more beneficial than being weighed? It certainly would in my case anyway.
Because of the world we live in, I sadly feel costumes are not the main cause of performers being weighed regularly, and performers feeling pressurised to remain "thin".
I hope, professional performers never aim to be "skinny".
Whilst the text on this photo is a little derogatory in the terms that it's making it a competition, and I am aware that there are naturally very thin people, just like there a naturally larger people, I would hope that if someone of my size, UK 10, 9 stone 12lbs, would aim to be a toned improved version of themselves, even if the scales barely change, instead of an 8 stone "skinny" version.
Image may not just be size but I do sadly think it plays the largest part of a performers image.
The article below, discusses a dancers need to be (in their words) fetishishing thin.
Dance needs to stop fetishising thin
It also touches on Channel 4 programme "Big Ballet" which showed incredibly talented plus size ladies learning ballet and performing.
Why is there never focus on the middle ground? Me for example. Why should we focus on super skinny or super large? What about the normal sized women around the world who exersize to keep fit, each chips when they want too but overall live a normal natural life? I'm pretty certain if I am on stage in a leotard and tights, there may be the odd wobble, but my god I would have a spark and determination like never before, and that is important, not the circumference of my calves for crying out loud.
On the article I linked above they finish by saying "By far the best argument against the fetishisation of thin, is to see and enjoy everything that lies beyond it." - I love that quote to a certain degree, but let's just stop making size "a thing".
There is a song out at the moment called "All About That Bass" by Megan Trainor. Some of the lyrics include
"I see the magazine workin' that Photoshop.
We know that shit ain't real
C'mon now, make it stop
If you got beauty, beauty, just raise 'em up
'Cause every inch of you is perfect
From the bottom to the top"
which is GREAT.
Whilst I do wish everyone would stop harping on about size, that is a great message if ever we need one.
She then goes on to sing
"Yeah, my mama she told me don't worry about your size.
She says, "Boys like a little more booty to hold at night."
At first I'd not think anything of it, but then I worry that those girls who are born naturally size UK 6 who maybe don't have "all that booty" are going to be downtrodden.
Constantly we read about, listen to it, look in the mirror and think it ourselves.
X Factor takes every contestant from judges houses, and "transforms them" into a superstar by the live shows.
Would Cheryl Cole be where she is now, if she hadn't changed her image?
I just somehow doubt that.
Image Important Music - This is a good article about why image is important.
I particularly like this section.
"Image doesn’t mean changing who you are or what you stand for. You don’t need to make a statement or box yourself into some subculture. Image is about consistency and an unwavering commitment to a specific tone, look and feel. It’s about creating something that people can stand behind because they feel as if it’s more than just a product; it’s a brand they can trust."
That's more my kind of talking. I guess image will always be important. I just think, being the best possible version of yourself is more important than the weightloss, the veneers and the pout!
I am enjoying all the research I am reading from other blogs, news articles and different websites.
Something I have come across a handful of times now, is about a performers "image".
I for one, like to take pride in my appearance in day to day life. But when it comes to performing I suddenly feel an overwhelming need to look immaculate.
Just last week I performed in Annie as Lily St. Regis. Lily is a flirtacious, glamorous young lady.
Eveyday I would be preparing my hair for the wig, glueing on my fake eye lashes, applying stage foundation, blusher, red lipstick, tights, high heels etc. Yet I still looked at pictures from the opening night, dissatisfied.
I don't find this surprising. No wonder there is such a complex with appearance in this day in age. Constantly we're seeing articles such as Nikki Minaj untouched - Spot the difference! or The Science Behind Renee Zellwegers new Face - It's utterly ridiculous.
Last week a friend mentioned that she, as a singer on a cruise ship, is weighed weekly. I was a bit flabbergasted at this (pun intended). My weight fluctuates A LOT but my clothes never seem to fit differently, but it's actually factual in her case, that if she went up in weight by 3lbs, she would be sacked.
I can gain 4lbs throughout the day sometimes if I've been out to dinner and perhaps been a bit lazy!
Which led me to this question.
Why is image so vital to be a good performer?
There are SO many different outlooks.
Ballet dancers for example. Ballet dancers have incredible physiques. They are pure muscle! I guarantee some weigh a lot more than you would think. Just because they may wear UK size 6 clothes, does not mean they won't weigh the same as a "normal" size UK 12 female... Muscle weighs a lot more than fat.
Would they be sacked if they "weighed" differently one week to the next... I don't know, but my goodness, one would hope not.
Trying to understand these odd "weight rules" had me thinking of WHY.
Ok, they have costumes made to measure each individual... I'm pretty sure we would all know if our clothes were a bit tighter than previously. I am more than aware when I have perhaps gained a bit of weight (and even more so if I had lost ;)) but surely, that is enough to keep you in check? Would they sack someone if they went from 9 stone, to 8 and a half? Somehow I doubt that and this disappoints me.
IF the costumes is the main factor, then surely having your measurements taken each week or month would be far more beneficial than being weighed? It certainly would in my case anyway.
Because of the world we live in, I sadly feel costumes are not the main cause of performers being weighed regularly, and performers feeling pressurised to remain "thin".
I hope, professional performers never aim to be "skinny".
Image may not just be size but I do sadly think it plays the largest part of a performers image.
The article below, discusses a dancers need to be (in their words) fetishishing thin.
Dance needs to stop fetishising thin
It also touches on Channel 4 programme "Big Ballet" which showed incredibly talented plus size ladies learning ballet and performing.
Why is there never focus on the middle ground? Me for example. Why should we focus on super skinny or super large? What about the normal sized women around the world who exersize to keep fit, each chips when they want too but overall live a normal natural life? I'm pretty certain if I am on stage in a leotard and tights, there may be the odd wobble, but my god I would have a spark and determination like never before, and that is important, not the circumference of my calves for crying out loud.
On the article I linked above they finish by saying "By far the best argument against the fetishisation of thin, is to see and enjoy everything that lies beyond it." - I love that quote to a certain degree, but let's just stop making size "a thing".
There is a song out at the moment called "All About That Bass" by Megan Trainor. Some of the lyrics include
"I see the magazine workin' that Photoshop.
We know that shit ain't real
C'mon now, make it stop
If you got beauty, beauty, just raise 'em up
'Cause every inch of you is perfect
From the bottom to the top"
which is GREAT.
Whilst I do wish everyone would stop harping on about size, that is a great message if ever we need one.
She then goes on to sing
"Yeah, my mama she told me don't worry about your size.
She says, "Boys like a little more booty to hold at night."
At first I'd not think anything of it, but then I worry that those girls who are born naturally size UK 6 who maybe don't have "all that booty" are going to be downtrodden.
Constantly we read about, listen to it, look in the mirror and think it ourselves.
X Factor takes every contestant from judges houses, and "transforms them" into a superstar by the live shows.
Does this change how good of a singer Sam Bailey was? Certainly not... Or how much of a likeable personality she has? No. Is it neccessary because she wants to look her best on TV...maybe yes. Is it imperative for her to be a successful artist in 2014? Sadly, I think so. Not from my opinion, but so many other professionals and TV veiwers.
I particularly like this section.
"Image doesn’t mean changing who you are or what you stand for. You don’t need to make a statement or box yourself into some subculture. Image is about consistency and an unwavering commitment to a specific tone, look and feel. It’s about creating something that people can stand behind because they feel as if it’s more than just a product; it’s a brand they can trust."
That's more my kind of talking. I guess image will always be important. I just think, being the best possible version of yourself is more important than the weightloss, the veneers and the pout!
Monday 20 October 2014
Internet Safety
Looking back on the tasks for Part 1, I learnt a lot about the use of the internet, what comes under "Web 2.0" and how these things benefit professionals.
What interested me, is how, from using sights such as Twitter, Instagram, Flickr etc, they never advertise the use of internet safety. Not once on signing up to such sights do they ask if you want your profile hidden from the public. They all have the facility to do so, but I found it bizzarre that isn't their main priority when signing up new users.
Facebook has got better over the years. It used to be quite difficult to find where the settings were, and how to change them. I remember as a teenager being inundated with friend requests from complete strangers. Now, they now have a whole list of different privacy settings, which is great for internet safety, but it is a little confusing at times!
On this link for the Metroplitan Police, they mention about how important having privacy settings on.
http://safe.met.police.uk/internet_safety/get_the_facts.html
I do remember some time ago now, reading about someone who invited their facebook friends to a party, however, she had no privacy settings on, and it ended up being a house party with over 1500 people!
See full article here: Facebook Party Gets Out Of Control After German Girl Forgets Privacy Setting
Then there is safety when viewing other pages. I have my own laptop, own phone, own tablet, and all of these are for just my use. Whilst I do live with my parents, I don't use their computer, nor do they use my things; There are no younger children around to be using them.
I'm sure there are hundreds of different settings to stop children looking at inappropriate sites however I have never really had to use them. From reading websites regarding childrens internet safety, a lot of it is about monitoring, or blocks, but i think, despite all that,a childs best online protection is the parent. By talking to them about potential online dangers i'm sure parents can help help them surf the Internet safely.
I work for a county council and they have security blockers on certain websites. So for example if I was to use a site that has a word in the URL that flags up on their system, it will block me from accessing the site. Sometimes it is understandable, if it's maybe a news article which isn't pleasant so maybe has a graphic word in the title, whereas other times it can seem a bit random.
There are so many things nowadays delevoping to help and assist with internet safety.
The UK Council for Child Internet Safety (UKCCIS) is a group of more than 200 organisations drawn from across government, industry, law, academia and charity sectors that work in partnership to help keep children safe online. (directgov) UK Council for Child Internet Safety (UKCCIS)
I am surprised accounts like Instagram are not private the moment you sign up, especially as the age of children on these websites is getting younger each year.
On Saturday, I finished a production of Annie, and some of the "orphans", as young as 10, have started trying to add me on instagram and facebook. I am surpised they don't have private profiles and I can view a lot on their accounts already.
It's definitely food for thought. If I ever have children of my own, I hope security settings on social media sites is a bit better by then!
What interested me, is how, from using sights such as Twitter, Instagram, Flickr etc, they never advertise the use of internet safety. Not once on signing up to such sights do they ask if you want your profile hidden from the public. They all have the facility to do so, but I found it bizzarre that isn't their main priority when signing up new users.
Facebook has got better over the years. It used to be quite difficult to find where the settings were, and how to change them. I remember as a teenager being inundated with friend requests from complete strangers. Now, they now have a whole list of different privacy settings, which is great for internet safety, but it is a little confusing at times!
On this link for the Metroplitan Police, they mention about how important having privacy settings on.
http://safe.met.police.uk/internet_safety/get_the_facts.html
I do remember some time ago now, reading about someone who invited their facebook friends to a party, however, she had no privacy settings on, and it ended up being a house party with over 1500 people!
See full article here: Facebook Party Gets Out Of Control After German Girl Forgets Privacy Setting
Then there is safety when viewing other pages. I have my own laptop, own phone, own tablet, and all of these are for just my use. Whilst I do live with my parents, I don't use their computer, nor do they use my things; There are no younger children around to be using them.
I'm sure there are hundreds of different settings to stop children looking at inappropriate sites however I have never really had to use them. From reading websites regarding childrens internet safety, a lot of it is about monitoring, or blocks, but i think, despite all that,a childs best online protection is the parent. By talking to them about potential online dangers i'm sure parents can help help them surf the Internet safely.
I work for a county council and they have security blockers on certain websites. So for example if I was to use a site that has a word in the URL that flags up on their system, it will block me from accessing the site. Sometimes it is understandable, if it's maybe a news article which isn't pleasant so maybe has a graphic word in the title, whereas other times it can seem a bit random.
There are so many things nowadays delevoping to help and assist with internet safety.
The UK Council for Child Internet Safety (UKCCIS) is a group of more than 200 organisations drawn from across government, industry, law, academia and charity sectors that work in partnership to help keep children safe online. (directgov) UK Council for Child Internet Safety (UKCCIS)
I am surprised accounts like Instagram are not private the moment you sign up, especially as the age of children on these websites is getting younger each year.
On Saturday, I finished a production of Annie, and some of the "orphans", as young as 10, have started trying to add me on instagram and facebook. I am surpised they don't have private profiles and I can view a lot on their accounts already.
It's definitely food for thought. If I ever have children of my own, I hope security settings on social media sites is a bit better by then!
Monday 6 October 2014
Reminiscing
I saw this video a while back but just stumbled across it again. It is hilariously accurate to what my childhood dancing days were like.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QtCOmn1_GQA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QtCOmn1_GQA
Friday 3 October 2014
Task 1d.
I aim to do Task 1c this weekend but while I am waiting I thought I would look into Task 1d.
It states to post a set of images to Flickr or another image bank. Now I use instagram regularly, to post and browse, so I thought I would take this opportunity to start a Flickr account as it is one of the image and video hosting websites I don't actually use.
My Flickr Photostream
Shortly after sign up, it became apparant, this type of image sharing wasn't for me. Firstly, when I went to import contacts from facebook/gmail, I had barely any people come up. I remember when I joined instagram, hundreds came up and I questioned how I was so late to the game, but with this, it doesn't seem popular with people I know.
Don't get me wrong, I like the idea of having a place to store images, however I already have my facebook page, I regularly use dropbox if needing to send a large amount of pics, large files or videos, and my phone is a Samsung so I have it synced with my gmail account so everything is there.
I started looking into other websites for image and video storing. Lots of similar concepts came up, photobucket, tinypic imageshack so then I started delving further into the likes of Tumblr and Pinterest. These websites allow you to browse and find pictures and find all sorts of things you love.
If i'm honest, the concept baffles me slightly. I do, however, know people who use pinterest for things like wedding ideas. So, they have a folder full of things they have seen that they like, so when planning their wedding they can have all this inspiration on the website. I know "travellers" who have a pinterest folder full of places to see and experience. I also know teachers who use it.
I tried pinterest some time ago and after one day, never used it again but constantly see people on my facebook "pinning", so I must be a minority who didn't get into it.
Tumblr is a website I love the idea of. It is fundimentally a blogging website. I personally have never kept a blog (until now obviously), however I do find it interesting reading other peoples.
Some specialised in perhaps Fashion, Dance, Travel, wheras others are a daily/weekly/monthly blog of daily life. (Example: http://missyelz.blogspot.co.uk/)
Then from blogs, comes vlogs. Vlogs are basically, the "video blog". Documenting your life in to a camera. As i've mentioned in a previous post, I am an avid youtuber. I don't post videos but I subscribe and regularly watch certain channels.
A personal favourite vlog channel is PsychoSoprano (Example of one vlog: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZRtOuS5WoKg&list=PLDB04sOi3jP7VInkNL7JP4ihgjlq1HAXf)
I love the idea of vlogging and if my life was fascinating enough, I really would take it up!
I have recently, over the last few months, started using the app Vine. It may be the funniest app in the world! I daily watch 7 second clips of people making comedic or music/dance videos. (https://vine.co/rydoon)
Interestingly enough, viners have started creating youtube videos and a lot of them are now making a living from their vlogging/comedy videos. People like Ry Doon, (see link above) or Arron Crascall have also expanded there vlogs using the app Snapchat.
If you don't know about Snapchat, it is an app for any smart phone where you can take a video or picture and send it to someone else using Snapchat. The video will show up, or the picture will show up between 1-10 seconds depending what you save it as, but after those seconds, it will dissapear, never to be seen again!
I don't fully understand what the point of the app is, however it can be amusing to send funny pictures or videos on without the other person being able to save it.
Within Snapchat there is the ability to save your snaps to "Your Story". Basically, this is where you can save videos or pictures on your story and they will show up to your contacts for 24 hours, then dissapear. This is how Viners/Youtubers have been reaching out to people. They provide their Snapchat name to their viewers, then leave pictures, or videos promoting vines or maybe leaving clues to their next video.
This leads me on to something else. Earlier in the year, Zach Braff (known from TV series Scrubs or films such as The Vow or Garden State) funded a film using Kickstarter. "Kickstarter is the world's largest funding platform for creative projects". Kickstarter has been around for some time, however when this celebrity used it, some praised him, some critisized, but most importantly he funded a film which grossed millions at the box office.
It's a fantastic way for people to get backing to fund anything from films, to music videos. Arron Crascall who I mentioned above is fairly new to the filming world. He started posting vines, and rapidly had a following of fans due to frankly being hilarious. He is now using kickstarter to fund obtaining filming equipment so he can make a career through filming on youtube/vine etc (Arron Crascall - Kickstarter).
So in conclusion, from a rather long post, I guess the reality is that you can do anything online. Social Media is key in todays world.
I would, on a seperate post like to touch on the importance of safe social media, but for now, I think thats plenty of food for thought, on the incredible resources Web 2.0 has to offer!
It states to post a set of images to Flickr or another image bank. Now I use instagram regularly, to post and browse, so I thought I would take this opportunity to start a Flickr account as it is one of the image and video hosting websites I don't actually use.
My Flickr Photostream
Shortly after sign up, it became apparant, this type of image sharing wasn't for me. Firstly, when I went to import contacts from facebook/gmail, I had barely any people come up. I remember when I joined instagram, hundreds came up and I questioned how I was so late to the game, but with this, it doesn't seem popular with people I know.
Don't get me wrong, I like the idea of having a place to store images, however I already have my facebook page, I regularly use dropbox if needing to send a large amount of pics, large files or videos, and my phone is a Samsung so I have it synced with my gmail account so everything is there.
I started looking into other websites for image and video storing. Lots of similar concepts came up, photobucket, tinypic imageshack so then I started delving further into the likes of Tumblr and Pinterest. These websites allow you to browse and find pictures and find all sorts of things you love.
If i'm honest, the concept baffles me slightly. I do, however, know people who use pinterest for things like wedding ideas. So, they have a folder full of things they have seen that they like, so when planning their wedding they can have all this inspiration on the website. I know "travellers" who have a pinterest folder full of places to see and experience. I also know teachers who use it.
I tried pinterest some time ago and after one day, never used it again but constantly see people on my facebook "pinning", so I must be a minority who didn't get into it.
Tumblr is a website I love the idea of. It is fundimentally a blogging website. I personally have never kept a blog (until now obviously), however I do find it interesting reading other peoples.
Some specialised in perhaps Fashion, Dance, Travel, wheras others are a daily/weekly/monthly blog of daily life. (Example: http://missyelz.blogspot.co.uk/)
Then from blogs, comes vlogs. Vlogs are basically, the "video blog". Documenting your life in to a camera. As i've mentioned in a previous post, I am an avid youtuber. I don't post videos but I subscribe and regularly watch certain channels.
A personal favourite vlog channel is PsychoSoprano (Example of one vlog: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZRtOuS5WoKg&list=PLDB04sOi3jP7VInkNL7JP4ihgjlq1HAXf)
I love the idea of vlogging and if my life was fascinating enough, I really would take it up!
I have recently, over the last few months, started using the app Vine. It may be the funniest app in the world! I daily watch 7 second clips of people making comedic or music/dance videos. (https://vine.co/rydoon)
Interestingly enough, viners have started creating youtube videos and a lot of them are now making a living from their vlogging/comedy videos. People like Ry Doon, (see link above) or Arron Crascall have also expanded there vlogs using the app Snapchat.
If you don't know about Snapchat, it is an app for any smart phone where you can take a video or picture and send it to someone else using Snapchat. The video will show up, or the picture will show up between 1-10 seconds depending what you save it as, but after those seconds, it will dissapear, never to be seen again!
I don't fully understand what the point of the app is, however it can be amusing to send funny pictures or videos on without the other person being able to save it.
Within Snapchat there is the ability to save your snaps to "Your Story". Basically, this is where you can save videos or pictures on your story and they will show up to your contacts for 24 hours, then dissapear. This is how Viners/Youtubers have been reaching out to people. They provide their Snapchat name to their viewers, then leave pictures, or videos promoting vines or maybe leaving clues to their next video.
This leads me on to something else. Earlier in the year, Zach Braff (known from TV series Scrubs or films such as The Vow or Garden State) funded a film using Kickstarter. "Kickstarter is the world's largest funding platform for creative projects". Kickstarter has been around for some time, however when this celebrity used it, some praised him, some critisized, but most importantly he funded a film which grossed millions at the box office.
It's a fantastic way for people to get backing to fund anything from films, to music videos. Arron Crascall who I mentioned above is fairly new to the filming world. He started posting vines, and rapidly had a following of fans due to frankly being hilarious. He is now using kickstarter to fund obtaining filming equipment so he can make a career through filming on youtube/vine etc (Arron Crascall - Kickstarter).
So in conclusion, from a rather long post, I guess the reality is that you can do anything online. Social Media is key in todays world.
I would, on a seperate post like to touch on the importance of safe social media, but for now, I think thats plenty of food for thought, on the incredible resources Web 2.0 has to offer!
Thursday 2 October 2014
Continuing from Task 1b.
Something I have been thinking about more, since researching 2.0 is how music people can use it to publicise.
Reading Anthony Gifford's blog (http://antgifford.blogspot.co.uk/) what I found interesting was how he discussed publicity for celebrities, and how Web 2.0 enhances their careers. Also from a customer service perspective, with the likes of Twitter, customers now know, when they tweet a company, they are speaking directly with an advisor, as opposed to the usual "We will respond in 2-4 days" generic email response.
Take this hilarious twitter conversation between customer and supermarket. Granted, all for fun, but things like this wouldn't happen if it weren't for Web 2.0.
I am an avid tweeter and spend heaps of time on youtube. Some of my favourite youtubers are famous simply because of youtube, and the help of facebook/twitter publicity. I know musicians who are now playing some of the UKs biggest festivals, because they created a fanbase through youtube.
It fascinates me how much the internet influences life nowadays. I wonder just where we would be without it.
Reading Anthony Gifford's blog (http://antgifford.blogspot.co.uk/) what I found interesting was how he discussed publicity for celebrities, and how Web 2.0 enhances their careers. Also from a customer service perspective, with the likes of Twitter, customers now know, when they tweet a company, they are speaking directly with an advisor, as opposed to the usual "We will respond in 2-4 days" generic email response.
Take this hilarious twitter conversation between customer and supermarket. Granted, all for fun, but things like this wouldn't happen if it weren't for Web 2.0.
I am an avid tweeter and spend heaps of time on youtube. Some of my favourite youtubers are famous simply because of youtube, and the help of facebook/twitter publicity. I know musicians who are now playing some of the UKs biggest festivals, because they created a fanbase through youtube.
It fascinates me how much the internet influences life nowadays. I wonder just where we would be without it.
Monday 29 September 2014
Task 1b. Professional Communication Technologies
I have always been fascinated in technology. From being a child daily using MSN messenger to communicate with friends after school, to a music enthusiast using myspace to connect with artists and expand my music knowledge, to a Media Studies A-Level student in school.
I have always been technically wise, with a facebook page, twitter, youtube account for many many years. I edited my own showreel, as well as making publicity videos for the District Operatic Society I work with.
Whilst I never knew it was "Web 2.0", I have regularly used this concept fot many years.
What struck my interest, is how much Web 2.0 is used for professionals to engage.
We would simply not be able to do this course without it. Whether it is downlading ebooks, liaising via the blogs, posting videos/pictures with sites such as Flickr or Tumblr, it would be virtually impossible to have this professional practice course the way it is.
The internet is the reason SO many things are the way they are. Reading O'Reillys article on "What is Web 2.0 really is" opened my eyes to several things.
For example, I have only known meme's to be comical (see pic)
I have always been technically wise, with a facebook page, twitter, youtube account for many many years. I edited my own showreel, as well as making publicity videos for the District Operatic Society I work with.
Whilst I never knew it was "Web 2.0", I have regularly used this concept fot many years.
What struck my interest, is how much Web 2.0 is used for professionals to engage.
We would simply not be able to do this course without it. Whether it is downlading ebooks, liaising via the blogs, posting videos/pictures with sites such as Flickr or Tumblr, it would be virtually impossible to have this professional practice course the way it is.
The internet is the reason SO many things are the way they are. Reading O'Reillys article on "What is Web 2.0 really is" opened my eyes to several things.
For example, I have only known meme's to be comical (see pic)
However actually the term meme is actually "an idea, behavior, or style that spreads from person to person within a culture" (wikepedia)- like O'Rielly's meme map.
I look forward to expanding my knowledge of Web 2.0 over the duration of this course.
Task 1a. Professional Profile - My CV
I had set up this blog before we had the Handbook for BAPP through, so my profile was already completed. I do, however find it interesting, having the concept of a professional CV rewritten as a profile.
I have tried this out below.
"My name is Sarah Dunn.
I am a 26 year old Singer, Dancer, and Actress.
I graduated in 2009 from Liverpool Theatre School with a Level 6 National Diploma in Professional Musical Theatre.
Following on from graduating, I moved to London where I followed suit in auditioning/working like the majority of graduates. I moved back to Stafford, my home town in 2012 where I choreograph for the district operatic society.
I have been fortunate to travel for 8 months during 2013 as well. I now work full time and now, back in the UK, persuing the auditon route again.
My full training credentials are as follows;
Liverpool Theatre School – Trinity College London Level 6 National Diploma in Professional Musical Theatre
ISTD – Advanced 2 Tap, Advanced 2 Modern and Gold Jazz
RAD – Grade 8 Ballet
and now Middlesex University for the BA Hons in Professional Practice course.
My skills include Strong Tap, Jazz, Ballet, basic Latin, jazz partnering
Confident tonality and vocal harmonies
Choreography – Musical Theatre, Jazz, Tap, Modern Dance
Accents - RP, General American, New York American
My most recent credits are as follows;
Choreographer for How to Suceed in Business Without Really Trying for Stafford and District Operatic Society
Singer on Keith Forrest’s songwriting EP
Regular Guest singer on Tonka Talks Stafford FM Radio Show
Actress/Singer for TV Pilot Re-Edit Me, with the National Film and Television School
Featured Singer/Dancer for Showbiz with Sky One
Makeup Model for Face ON Magazine
Dancer for Oak Jeans Fashion Shoot
Choreographer for Hot Mikado, with SDOS
Backing vocalist for Sleeping Beauty Rock n Roll Pantomime.
Whilst I am to continue working and I am interested in developing my career and specifically would like to qualify as a teacher. Following on from the BAPP course, I endeavour to obtain a PGCE. I would like to teach secondary Dance or Performing Arts.
I have adopted a lifelong approach to personal development."
I found creating a CV in a textual way interesting. I personally find this far less eye catching, than my professional CV which I send to potential employers. Please see below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YCDQcrjJFIM&edit=vd
I have tried this out below.
"My name is Sarah Dunn.
I am a 26 year old Singer, Dancer, and Actress.
I graduated in 2009 from Liverpool Theatre School with a Level 6 National Diploma in Professional Musical Theatre.
Following on from graduating, I moved to London where I followed suit in auditioning/working like the majority of graduates. I moved back to Stafford, my home town in 2012 where I choreograph for the district operatic society.
I have been fortunate to travel for 8 months during 2013 as well. I now work full time and now, back in the UK, persuing the auditon route again.
My full training credentials are as follows;
Liverpool Theatre School – Trinity College London Level 6 National Diploma in Professional Musical Theatre
ISTD – Advanced 2 Tap, Advanced 2 Modern and Gold Jazz
RAD – Grade 8 Ballet
and now Middlesex University for the BA Hons in Professional Practice course.
My skills include Strong Tap, Jazz, Ballet, basic Latin, jazz partnering
Confident tonality and vocal harmonies
Choreography – Musical Theatre, Jazz, Tap, Modern Dance
Accents - RP, General American, New York American
My most recent credits are as follows;
Choreographer for How to Suceed in Business Without Really Trying for Stafford and District Operatic Society
Singer on Keith Forrest’s songwriting EP
Regular Guest singer on Tonka Talks Stafford FM Radio Show
Actress/Singer for TV Pilot Re-Edit Me, with the National Film and Television School
Featured Singer/Dancer for Showbiz with Sky One
Makeup Model for Face ON Magazine
Dancer for Oak Jeans Fashion Shoot
Choreographer for Hot Mikado, with SDOS
Backing vocalist for Sleeping Beauty Rock n Roll Pantomime.
Whilst I am to continue working and I am interested in developing my career and specifically would like to qualify as a teacher. Following on from the BAPP course, I endeavour to obtain a PGCE. I would like to teach secondary Dance or Performing Arts.
I have adopted a lifelong approach to personal development."
I found creating a CV in a textual way interesting. I personally find this far less eye catching, than my professional CV which I send to potential employers. Please see below.
Another interesting concept is a Video CV. Now for a performer, I would say this is more of a Showreel. Please see mine below;
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YCDQcrjJFIM&edit=vd
However there are many ways to do this.
From reading an article on Recruitment Times http://www.recruitmenttimes.co.uk/video_cv_gocv.php, they referenced Elle Woods Video CV from the film Legally Blonde. It touches on some very important issues. Mainly, how to get noticed?
They comment on Elle Woods pink scented CV, and also, her video resume (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NotqNgDLzU4)
On Recruitment Times, they stated some figures;
"In the Vault.com survey, 58 percent of employers surveyed said they would watch
a video résumé “out of sheer curiosity,” 31 percent responded, “definitely, I
think they are valuable" and 11 percent said they would not watch because it
"would not be useful.”
In the performance world, a showreel can be one of the most successful ways of securing an audition, or even a job.
Granted, employers may turn off before the video has finished, but maybe, this is the way forward for employment?
Tuesday 23 September 2014
Induction.
On 22nd September, I attended an on campus Induction at Middlesex.
It was a relaxed yet informative day and I left with a definite clearer view of the course.
There was 8 of us, and we started by meeting and getting to know eachother. I was far more relaxed after that, realising that most of us were all in the same boat with similar objectives.
We had a couple of writing exercises, one of which involved writing down individually any questions/aims, not just for the course, but for the future.
Please see my work attached below. I have achieved a lot, but have many more goals and adventures I want to embark on and this was a great exercise to have them infront of you on paper.
One of the main things I learnt from the induction, was about realising how performers, whilst may not be "academics" in the convential way, actually, we most certainly are. With the amount we can learn for dance routines in a short space of time, to the control and discipline with things like diet and vocals, and the knowledge we hold in our area, we absolutely are academics.
I intend to show this with my work throughout this course.
It was a relaxed yet informative day and I left with a definite clearer view of the course.
There was 8 of us, and we started by meeting and getting to know eachother. I was far more relaxed after that, realising that most of us were all in the same boat with similar objectives.
We had a couple of writing exercises, one of which involved writing down individually any questions/aims, not just for the course, but for the future.
Please see my work attached below. I have achieved a lot, but have many more goals and adventures I want to embark on and this was a great exercise to have them infront of you on paper.
One of the main things I learnt from the induction, was about realising how performers, whilst may not be "academics" in the convential way, actually, we most certainly are. With the amount we can learn for dance routines in a short space of time, to the control and discipline with things like diet and vocals, and the knowledge we hold in our area, we absolutely are academics.
I intend to show this with my work throughout this course.
Monday 1 September 2014
Enrolled!
So, on the 1st of September, I rather keenly enrolled with Middlesex uni.
Student finance was sorted a while ago, and received my BAPP Programme handbook today via email, so i'm preparing where neccessary and getting excited to turn up for induction on the 22nd.
Pre course jitters, but overall extremely excited September is here and I can get stuck in.
S
x
Student finance was sorted a while ago, and received my BAPP Programme handbook today via email, so i'm preparing where neccessary and getting excited to turn up for induction on the 22nd.
Pre course jitters, but overall extremely excited September is here and I can get stuck in.
S
x
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