10 Things I have learned in Theatre and changed me as professional!

27th of March every year, the world celebrates Theater Day,

“I regard the theatre as the greatest of all art forms, the most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being.” ― Oscar Wilde.

Another wise-man shared: "Give me theatre and bread, I will create you great nation".

Theater is one of the most intense and fulfilling, albeit incomplete careers I endeavored into. On this special occasion, reflecting here on the top 10 things I learned in theater helping me be a better version of myself both personally and professionally:

Communication: being able to deliver your message as an actor in front of diverse crowd, not only as verbal message; but utilizing all resources at hand: your tone, physical movement, facial expression and even your silence.

Thinking on your feet: In theater, things might not always go as per the plan. One’s ability to improvise and find quick solutions to save the show is skill that hones over time. Things happen in all industry, but in theater there is no mercy. Applying this as professional to be able to think quickly and find solutions on spot.

Every element must have its purpose: every element in theater must have purpose: decoration, music, lighting,, etc. If it does not have purpose then you better take it off.

Thinking out-side the box: what makes better actor is the value he/she add to the role. Anyone can read the script, but not everyone can live it and bring it alive. There, it is not about getting it done, it is about how you get it done. Adding value for all what you do.

Team work: everyone has a role, context of major or minor is foregone. The artistic show won’t be great unless you work as one team. As one of the directors once said: “ if the group were not aligned and have the same spirit, it will reflect on the audience.”. not only being aligned, but helping each other to show the best we have.

Working under pressure: Long working hours, timeline stress, practice again and again regardless of your energy level, as the entire team should practice together. Not to Mention the show day, audience, press and critique pressure.

Acceptance of disappointing: Not every show can be the best show, so how to program your mindset and get ready to rock the next day show.

Understand the authority: The director is the boss of the show. He assures the harmony of the group. It is designed this way and needs to be implemented the same way.

Self-awareness: Good actors need to be conscious of all what is going on within. Your tone, facial expression, body language, movement, emotions.. etc. only mastering them all will help you to fully get into the character. Being aware of yourself, capabilities and the stage elements around you

Enjoyment ! Enjoyment ! When I started this journey, it was 24/7, long day and night were gone in exercising and rehearsal. I would say 70% of my day were gone, with no pay check initially. Also, playing different character, no matter what it is; doctor, drug dealer, you name it, I learned to love what I do, and enjoy doing it. It matters. I believe that only when you enjoy what you do, you can dedicate all your time for it, and deliver great things. You will only be able to touch the audience with the level of your enjoyment within.

Once you enjoy what you do, you reach great places with it.

It was hard to list it in 10 points only, It is much much more. Theater is such an intense experience that i will always remember, admire and be grateful for!