Celebrated Canadian playwright Michael Healey led a webinar through Citadel Theatre recently. Many things stood out to me but one thing I thought I’d share is his note on taking notes. In the writing process, we have to be able to take notes from others. You create a play in order for an audience toContinue reading “Take a Note”
Category Archives: daily distractions
Always Decentring
To “decentre” is to question current power structures. Who is currently in focus and calling the shots? Are they meeting the expectations required of that central position? Is it time for a replacement? It’s not always about people in charge. What is common practice, and should we look at changing that? Do traditions in placeContinue reading “Always Decentring”
Made Up “Rules”
Racism and white supremacy are complex. There are so many difficult conversations to be had and many layers to unpack. I’m struck by something Austin Channing Brown and Brené Brown were discussing in a recent episode of Unlocking Us. White people often depend on rules to help them make sense of what’s going on. WhenContinue reading “Made Up “Rules””
Overactive Imagination?
One beautiful thing about living as artists is the tendency to live within our imaginations. As a new experience begins to take shape, I find I think way down the road to its potential outcome. When I start a project it’s important for me to determine the makeup of its finish line. It gives meContinue reading “Overactive Imagination?”
I Am Bigger Than This Moment
I want to use my voice and my privilege for good. I want to give ears to the earless (the voiceless actually have voices and have been screaming for centuries). I want to step into discomfort and have the hard conversations. I want to share the beautiful art and activism of Black people. I amContinue reading “I Am Bigger Than This Moment”
Casual Convos
I know a great deal of people in my life who are wizards with words. I don’t consider myself one of them. But I love having conversations with friends and loved ones who have a gift for beautiful imagery and storytelling. Pay attention to how people in your life describe things. What words do theyContinue reading “Casual Convos”
Assumptions
You know the old saying. Assumptions can truly be very harmful. When we jump to scare tactics because we assume people are wrong or misguided and need to learn a lesson, we can cause serious damage. It’s important to have all the information before making any kind of judgment. I think of a director asContinue reading “Assumptions”
Offers vs. Actions
In my relatively short time working in the theatre industry and crafting stories in collaborative settings, I’ve come to notice a common bad habit. We assume that being open to criticism and willing to discuss issues with others is enough, but we don’t address the obstacles people face in seeking that help. If an individualContinue reading “Offers vs. Actions”