The truth about the navigation of a performer's career in a world of COVID-19 and how it has changed the industry for a lifetime.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg, VA - Christmas Celebration 2020 Banbury Carolers
The Initial Hit
"The world is a stage, the stage is a world of entertainment." - Howard Dietz
An artist with no pen, the world of theatre was ripped away from thousands of perfomers in the face of COVID-19. For me, I was in the final weekend of a production of Rock Of Ages at Peninsula Community Theatre. It was my first Lead Role and a Bucket List Role for years. Just recovering from an odd cold (likely to have been Covid) that had me down for the first 2 weeks, the excitement for closing weekend couldn't be contained...and then it was. Ticket sales halted. Only those who had pre-purchased tickets would be allowed in the theatre. Audiences were small, as the majority of guests purchase tickets day of. So many friends and family members, unable to see the show. Applause was softer, the world felt darker.. it killed us. A week later, the world shutdown. Everything feeling like an apocalyptic nightmare. This was when I began to prepare myself for the end of my performing career..
Returning To The Stage
Plans to produce A Chorus Line continued, as at the time, we all still believed this pandemic would only last a few months. Online Zoom rehearsals, Living Room Dance Studios, and very irritated downstairs neighbors. I had landed another dream role, and couldn't help but think: "What sick joke is the world playing on me with this?!"
I will to no lies when I say, online rehearsals/shows are NO FUN. The one craft where I felt the stress of the world fall away, insecurities demolished, and fun to be found became a stressful life of deadlines, miscommunication, anger & isolation. I was cursed with the perfect crew & cast in the worst conditions. Like a treasure you can see but just can't grasp. I wish I could say this only pressed me to push harder in performing, but it did quite the opposite...
Months later, Busch Gardens Williamsburg began posting for Vocalists for a modified event for the Christmas Season. As a little girl, I had dreamed f performing on the same stages that once held some of my favorite performers, like Jeremy Jordan. Ashamed to admit, on a quick whim, I rushed home from work to record a quick audition & sent in y materials. Three days later I received the call that I got the job, and couldn't stop smiling for days. What an odd twist of fate to have so many dreams come true in a world like a nightmare.
Masks, Mics, and Tons of Disinfectant Spray
"Performing live is the greatest high in the world. That's why I do what I do." - Toni Braxton
At times, the process of returning to live performance was rough. Rules were odd and against our nature, but we did what we could to follow & keep our team safe. All the while, it was the closest to normal feeling I had in 7 months. The weird feelings only hit when we walked out onto a stage with a crowd so small, we felt alone. This was my first time facing an occasional audience of zero. This was where I learned the most. Those ghost crowd days where when I was able to find the fun and connection of performing with other artists. Finally focus on the feel and craft of my voice. Enjoy the privilege of doing what I love as a job, and not stress.
I was grateful to be with such a wonderful company who kept me safe while allowing me to present my art & personality. Artists were separated in that era of the pandemic. No more were there cast mates who didn't care about the art. All around were genuine artists who were focused on creating moments, rather than the warmth of the spotlight.
Where Are We Now?
Today, I continue to work professionally in the Entertainment Industry both as a Performer and a Manager. Each day is a step closer to normal. The light at the end of the tunnel is starting to get brighter, and my excitement for this next year remains strong & optimistic. Get Vaccinated. Continue to wear your mask. Stick it out, the payoff will be worth it.
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