RISK

What do you usually think of when you hear/see the word "risk"? Whatever it is, it's probably not good. According to dictionary.com risk is defined as exposure to the chance of injury or loss; a hazard or dangerous chance. Injury. Loss. Danger. NO THANKS! However, I must point out that it is merely exposure to the chance of this pain; pain is not a guarantee.

I'm not saying it's good to gamble your life savings on black, but the investor made his millions by taking a risk. No, you don't need to jump of the top of  the Sears Tower- it will always be the ST- to feel alive, but skydiving could positively change your life. And no, if the object of your desire is happily married, professing your love won't do much good, but if you never cuddle with your friend on the couch, you'll never be happily surprised at the amazing love you now make. Some things are worth the risk.

RISK, FAIL, RISK AGAIN
Actors live to risk. At rehearsal last Thursday, we worked on Stacy's graduation dinner scene. Is starts with grins, beers, and laughter; a very happy scene. (Happiness also being a risk, because if you never let yourself be happy, then you never know what it's like to lose it.)  Donna enters thinking the family knows about David's infidelity, and is swept away be the love the family still holds for her. Darrel starts asking the big questions- big risk- and all hell breaks loose. This roller-coaster ride is how we end the first act; a family slowly shred by truth.

At University, we're taught different techniques on how to reach these emotional levels, how to place ourselves in these mental realms, but not always how to get back down/out. Grounding is a vital part of the process. Where does all the "almost-there-but-not-enough-to-release" energy go? If the actor can't ground the energy, it becomes toxic inside of her, and destroy the life it belongs to.

Personally, I need affection to stabilize... yes, like a kitty cat. Affection translates into love, solidarity, alliance. This cast is so great at giving each other what they need. Example: David had been wanting to touch Donna while at dinner, but she wouldn't let him. After the scene, Michael lets me butt my forehead between his shoulder blades, and rest my head on his back until the room stops spinning. With a hug of reassurance that we are still friends- it sounds silly, but projection is a powerful thing- I'm purified and willing to risk again

A CALLING
Actors live to risk. We risk our psychological well-being, our emotional stability, our mental health, our mortal bodies all to tell stories, to change lives, to have fun. Yes, actors are absolutely mad, but the reward is so great, that to not risk is certain death!

So I leave you all with a sincere question:

for what are YOU willing to risk?