The Last Day Of 'The Cinderella Pantomime'

The day began with warm-ups in order to prepare us for the performance ahead. One exercises we participated in involved us squeezing our bottoms in and tucking in our tail bones. This automatically allows you to keep your stomach muscles engaged, which helps you to project your voice across the stage. We also did some tongue twisters to aid us in improving our articulation (the formation of clear and distinct sounds in speech) and sung to warm up our vocal chords.

For the first performance I thought that I put a lot of energy into the dancing, singing and acting. I was confident as I applied all of the technique that I had learnt and put in all the energy I had to give. I was extremely confident with my characterisation by this point and decided to use only the best reactions that I had come up with in previous shows, as well as some more imaginitive reactions. In order to improve on my singing and dancing even further, I practised in front of a mirror in my free time. I also made sure that I practised my chorus reactions in the mirror to see how I appeared onstage.

The last ever performance, I felt, was one of my best in regards to the dancing, but not so much for the singing and the acting. I was unable to sing as loudly as I have in the other shows, as my throat became soar. I could have done some extra vocal exercises previously in order to prevent this. I feel that my movements could have been sharper when reacting and I could have made greater use of 'The Tonic Body'. However, everyone gave their all and made this show a fantastic ending to a wonderful show.

 
Here is a photo of my friends from college and I in our Act One Costumes for Panto.

Friday's Matinee And Evening Show

The day began with some warm-ups to help us to release tension in our bodies and to make us feel like we had more energy on the stage. We sung songs, while engaging our diaphragms and opening our mouths wide to make sure that  our voices projected across the stage. We also stretched and hummed in order to warm up our voices. When humming it is important that you feel the vibration in your lips, so that you know that you are using the correct technique and you should engage your anchoring muscles, which include the diaphragm, abdominal muscles and the back muscles.

During the Matinee, I found that we had less space on the stage as extra rows of seats were added. In the dances I had to make some of my movements a lot smaller, in order to avoid falling into The Audience. I felt that I concentrated heavily on the acting, rather than both acting and dancing. I felt that my dancing lacked energy and I found myself focusing on the dance moves more than the singing as I haven't been able to go through each dance 20 times a day, as I did before the shows began. Therefore, during my free time I went through each dance twice in the mirror, until I was satisfied with the energy I was putting into them.

During the evening show I concentrated on the acting, dancing and singing equally. Although there was a mishap during 'Let Me Entertain You', where most of the Chorus Members (including myself), missed our cue, I put more energy into the dances than in any other show so far. I need to make sure that I aim to put this amount of energy into every dance in future shows. However I do need to work on my breath control when dancing (especially in the final number). I can achieve this by doing breathing exercises before each show and in silence backstage.

This Week So Far (Including The Dress Run and The First Set Of Shows)

On Saturday we helped to Set Build. This is part of our course as it helps us to understand the hard work that goes into creating an appropriate atmosphere for a show. It is also a new skill for us to learn. Here is a photograph of The Set by the end of Saturday.

 

On Monday, we continued Set Building and later participated in a tech rehearsal (a rehearsal that focuses on the technological aspects of the performance, in theatrical, musical, and filmed entertainment). We went from cue to cue, so that the Davinci Students knew when to use what lighting effect. It was the longest tech rehearsal I have ever done, which is likely to mirror the length of tech rehearsals in professional theatre. The lighting changed the mood of the performance and made it feel more like an actual show.

 

This web page explains what a Tech Rehearsal is in detail:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Technical_rehearsal

 

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On Tuesday we did a dress rehearsal (a full rehearsal, in costume, where you are expected to give a performance at the same level as you would a show), as The Director made last minute changes. Then we did another Cue to Cue. However, this time it involved the Davinci Students figuring out what music and sound effects to use and when. The music changed the atmosphere incredibly and it especially aids the actors in getting the response they hope to receive (e.g. funny music helps to make the audience laugh at the funny characters). Also, some changes had been made to the opening and closing numbers' dances. Therefore, I must do my best to learn this choreography at a much faster pace than usual. Practising the new steps when ever I have time, will help me to achieve this.

 

During the dress rehearsal, I made sure that I warmed up backstage, chewing and massaging my face in order to loosen up the jaw area and the face. This would make it easier to make huge facial expressions and also, I tend to have a lot of tension in my jaw area, which can prevent me from singing to the best of my ability and make me sound strained. I hit my marks, which was necessary, in order to avois complications with lighting effects.

 

I put as much effort into this Dress Rehearsal, as I would of done in an actual show. I smiled consistently and made varied, but big facial expressions. I remained focused and in character, even as I exited the stage. I also remembered all of my cues. I put as much energy into the singing and dancing as I did the acting and made a conscious effort to project as much as I could, as it it were an actual show. 

 

I took careful consideration in to keeping the correct posture throughout the songs and the acting scenes. I remembered some of the improvisation that I had previously done with my character and tried to apply some of theses details to myperformance for a greater variety of reactions. I also adopted, 'the tonic body', so that  my movements were sharper, clearer and bigger, so that they would come across more to an audience.

 

I remembered to engage my diaphragm as I sang and danced for better control and I remembered to put as much energy into the dances as possible, as I find that my dancing improves quite a bit, when I do this. As always, I remembered to dance on the balls of my feet, to spot as I turned and also to point my feet where appropriate.

 

 

 

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Wednesday was the day of our first show. Again, my lack of nerves affected my energy as I had no adrenaline rush. Although I generally perform better when I have an adrenaline rush, I could warm up backstage to gain as much energy as possible. Therefore I did silent warm ups, including 'pretend chewing'  and stretching to release tension in my whole body. I could of performed better in the first show as my reactions were not the best I have made.

 

In the second show, I performed worse than the first show, as my reactions were not as big as they had been in the past. By The Opening of The Second Act, half of The Audience members (school children) had left, as their coach was ready to leave. However, I still gave applied the same level of energy to the performance as I did prior to the first school's departure. Half way through the second act, the other school had to leave (the other half of the audience), due to their coach arriving to pick them up. We were left with one audience member, but we all pulled together to give her as good a performance as a full crowd and continued as normal.   

 

However, the last show, I felt, was the best performance yet for me as my reactions were bigger. They were more varied and I was more focused than in the first two show. The audience were the most vocal yet and were enthusiastic about getting involved. I believe that this helped me a great deal, as performers tend to feed  from the energy of their audience. Though it is important to put all of my energy into every show, no matter how little the audience participate, as they are probably enjoying it, but are less vocal about it.  

 

 

 

These Pictures were taken during our first set of shows. I thought that my shocked reactions were suitable for my character during the entrance of The Baroness, as Veronica (my character) is quite overwhelmed my how horrible she is and always overreacts in such situations, due to her lack of intelligence. I feel that my reactions could have been bigger and more varied, in the show these pictures were taken during. However, in future shows I did put a lot of effort into making my reactions more varied, yet still appropriate for my character.

 

 

Today during the Matinee (a showing of a theatrical performance in the afternoon) we were faced with a difficult audience, which is something I've experienced a few times before. As I have done in previous performances, I decided to treat this performance like any other, and not to hold back in fear of what audience members might shout out. My reactions were much more spontaneous and in- character than those which I had demonstrated on the previous day.

 

Today's evening show, I felt, was my personal best performance yet, as I found new reactions for my character, which were sharper and bigger than before. I am setting myself a personal goal to make sure that I aim to continue perform at this level at the very least, but that I keep trying for better. Also the final dance was the best it has been yet and so I must push myself as an individual to make this dance the best it can be in every show.

'The Cinderella Pantomime' At The Gordon Craig Theatre

Last week Saturday we went on a trip to watch 'The Cinderella Pantomime' At The Gordon Craig Theatre, in Stevenage. We watched the show in order to observe the way in which The Actors performed, so that we could creatively interpret some of their ideas into our own performance. It also gave us a greater insight into the atmosphere created in Pantomime.

I had to observe The Chorus. The Dances were well executed, which is something that I must remember to improve on myself. Also, they smiled virtually all the time, and they showed that they were listening to what the main characters had to say. From this, I realise that I need to appear to be an extremely happy character, no matter what my reaction may be (i.e if I have to be horrified, I still need to look like a nice character, who is horrified) and I need to make sure that my focus is on the 'speaking character', which I can show more clearly, by leaning in at times (as The Chorus did at The Gordon Craig) and moving my head slightly to turn towards the person who is speaking.

Here is an image of a promotional poster of 'The Cinderella Pantomime' at The Gordon Craig Theatre.

 

 

 



Dress Rehearsal Of The Cinderella Pantomime And Dance Practice

Today we did our first dress rehearsal and we ran through all of The Dances in The Panto. The end of The Dance to 'I Gotta Feeling' has been changed, so it is important that I go through this at home. I made mistakes in all of the dances, so I will run through them during the weekend at least 5 times a day, so that I will be very confident with all of them.

Here is a video of The Dance to 'I Gotta Feeling'. I am definitely more confident with this dance than I was a few weeks ago. My movements are sharper. However I need to make sure that I bend down straight away so that dancers can jump over me. Also, this video demonstrates my improvement in getting into the correct position, as previously today I was not in line with the other dancers.
 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIXx9P3xQ30&list=UUsc6As_10ht676BbLjDH3iQ

Here is a video of me dancing to 'Reach'. I have improved since the first time we did it, as it took me a long time to learn the correct choreography. However, i need to go over some of the movements to make sure that they are the same as everyone elses. I also need to work on my timing for this dance. I can watch this video back, so that I can learn the exact movements and timing.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_YMQWYHYwc&list=UUsc6As_10ht676BbLjDH3iQ

Here is a video of me dancing to 'Let Me Entertain You'. I also need to go over some of these dance moves to make sure that they are the same as the other dancers'. The end of the dance has been changed, so I must remember not to get it confused with the previous ending. In addition, I need to work on my strut at the beginning, as it isn't sharp enough.

Here is a video of me rehearsing the dance to 'You Can't Stop The Beat'. I need to work on my timing for this dance and I also need to make sure that I am doing the correct movement especially the first time we sing 'And if you try to hold me down, I'm gonna spit in your eye and say....', as I am definitely dancing that part incorrectly at the moment, so I will go through it during the weekend.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pEnmUqqHAvk&list=UUsc6As_10ht676BbLjDH3iQ

Then, we did the dress rehearsal of Act One and Act Two of 'The Cinderella Pantomime'. During the first run, I didn't make as many facial expressions as I usually do and I made mistakes with the dances. However, in the second run of Act One I made more facial varied facial expressions. It is important to use the energy that I used in the second run in every run through, so I need to warm up backstage, if that is what is necessary for me to give 100% every time.

Running Through 'Cinderella Act One And Act Two Without An Interval

Today we blocked Act One and Act Two of 'The Cinderella Pantomime'. This way, The Director was able to make final changes and adjustments to the scenes. Then, we were given time to rehearse the dances in The Dance Studio, which allows us to look at ourselves dancing in front of a mirror. I need to be careful of my foot placement, as they are often too far apart and I must apply the same amount of energy to every dance rehearsal, for the best results.

Later, we ran through Act One and Act Two of 'The Cinderella Pantomime', without an interval. I need to work on hitting my mark straight away in the opening number of The Panto. Now that I have a prop (a serving tray and some metal cups), I must adjust my reactions, so that I do not move so much, otherwise I may drop the cups. I also need to change the position of my hands, so that both are holding the tray. I was given feedback that I was 'doing good', so therefore it is important that I apply this amount of energy to every rehearsal and performance. I will also keep a smile on my face, virtually all the time (with the exception of reacting shocked/ puzzled), so that I appear to be a happy villager in Merrivale.

Blocking Through Act One of 'The Cinderella Pantomime' again

Today we took part in set designing (scenic design is the creation of theatrical, as well as film or television scenery), which is part of our course. It enables us to understand the work that goes into building a set and props.

Then, we blocked (blocking is a theatre term that refers to the precise movement and positioning of actors on a stage in order to facilitate the performance of a play) through Act One of 'The Cinderella Pantomime' again in order for the director to make final changes, adjustments etc. This did not include the dances, but I did run through these during my free time at college.

I found that I was more conscious of my facial expressions and therefore, I barely ever had a neutral face, which makes me look moody and miserable. If I open my eyes wide and lift my eyebrows, my character appears more friendly. I also put a greater level of energy into this performance, than in the past, so it is important to keep this energy consistent.

Rehearsing During Parents Evening

Today we watched East 15's perform a modern twist of Shakespeare's Richard The Third. East 15 is A Drama School, which made the performance even more compelling, as it shows the level of skill that you can gain from training at Drama School. The modern twist made it easier for the audience to relate to, but they still spoke in Shakespearean language. I think that putting a modern twist on a well known period piece, is an idea that I could use, if I have to devise my own performance.

Afterwards they held a Q&A (Questions and Answers), where they explained to us how they went about rehearsing, developing their characters and speaking Shakespearean. They mentioned how important it was for them to understand what they were saying. Also, in the case of The Actor who played Richard The Third, he explained that he wanted to show that his character could justify (to himself), the reasons for his actions. If I am to play a villain, it is important to remember that (with the exception of Pantomime Villains), people don't necessarily go about trying to be evil. They believe they have a good reason for everything that they do and this should be seen by the audience when portraying an villainous character.

Here is a link to East 15's website:
http://www.east15.ac.uk/index.asp

Later we rehearsed the first few scenes from Act 1 in front of peoples parents for Parents Evening. It was the first time we had performed in front of an audience from outside of college. However, I find that I don't seem to get nervous anymore, which is not necessarily a good thing, as I don't get an adrenaline rush. Therefore I lack energy. In the past, I performed with much more energy when I was nervous and so I feel that I need to 'hype myself up' more, before performing in front of an audience.I needed to put a lot more energy into the dance at the beginning and also, my face was neutral countless times, which makes me appear moody, so it is essential that I either smile or look shocked/puzzle at all times.

Peer Feedback 2 and Running Through Act 2

We began the day by performing Act 2 of 'The Cinderella Pantomime' to The Year 2s and The Level 2s. I was given feedback, where I was told that my face looked very moody. Therefore it is important that my face is never neutral. I need to be smiling or shocked/ puzzled at all times, otherwise I will look moody. I also think I need to vary my facial expressions more and make them bigger. In addition I should vary my movements more and make them bigger.

Here are some images that portray the facial expressions that are  suitable for panto:
These facial expressions are suitable, for when my Panto Character is happy or excited.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This Reaction is suitable for when my character is shocked (e.g. when The Baroness makes her entrance)

 

 

This facial expression would be useful for when my character is intrigued.

 

At lunch time I practised all of the dances in Act 2 in front of a mirror, with other chorus members, which helped me with timing. I also took some time to practise my facial expressions and reactions in the bathroom mirror. I found this very helpful, as it gave me a better idea of what I look like on the stage.

I was given feedback that my dancing was okay, so I need to make sure that I dance with this level of energy at all times. Practising each dance 20 times a day over the weekend helped me to improve dramatically, as on Thursday I could not remember which move came after the other. Therefore, whenever I have to learn a dance I must spend extra time rehearsing in front of a mirror and recording myself to see what I look like.

Dance and Singing Rehearsals For 'The Cinderella Pantomime'

Today began with a physical warm up and then we went straight into learning the dance routine to 'You Can't Stop The Beat' from Hairspray. I was still slow at picking up the choreography, but their is a slight improvement in my movement memory (the acquisition and retention of sensation that helps the body to remember what a given movement feels like). I find, the best way that I can learn a new dance routine is to practise it by myself, in front of a mirror, without music. When I feel that I know the dance well, I then add music to get the timing more accurate. The more I practise at home, the better able I should be to learn dance routines at college.

Here is a video of me dancing to 'You Can't Stop The Beat'. The video demonstrates how slow I am at picking up choreography, as my timing is off and my movements are often incorrect.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozjothErvEY&feature=c4-overview&list=UUsc6As_10ht676BbLjDH3iQ

 We then learnt the dance to 'Reach' by S Club 7. I wasn't able to pick up the choreography quickly on this dance either. However, as with 'You Can't Stop The Beat', I will a make sure I practise each 20 times a day- 10 times without music and ten times with. I find that this is the quickest way for me to learn a routine, as I found when learning the dance to 'price tag', as I could do the whole routine, without making mistakes, within 3 days.

Later, we danced to 'I Gotta Feeing', the opening number for Panto. My position has been changed and more dance moves have been added to the end of the dance, so I must work on the new choreography at home, as I did not pick it up quickly at college.

Running Through Part of Act 1 & Act 2 For Panto And Additional Dance & Singing Rehearsals

Today began with a warm up, so that we would feel that we had enough energy to perform. These included, pushing ourselves up, to balance on the balls of our feet, in a controlled manner, which helps to strengthen your calves. We also looked up, while tilting our heads upwards, which helped to free up our larynxes and relaxed our throat muscles, which made it easier to speak on the stage. In addition, yawning helps to open the throat, which is shown in this video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9tgPo1MIAhc

Then, we went through Act 1 of 'The Cinderella Panto' twice. The second time I performed it, I had more energy than the first, but I was fidgety, not in 'the tonic state' and my posture wasn't correct. Afterwards, we ran through Act 2, where I put a lot of energy into it, but I felt that I was fidgety and my posture wasn't correct. Also, I need to sort out the timing, for when to walk to the other side of the stage, as The Waitress. So I will look at the script and find an appropriate line to avoid blocking/being blocked (out of the line of view of the audience).

Later, I participated in additional dance rehearsals. The main focuses for me are, to make my movements bigger, getting the exact timing of every movement and maintaining the correct posture throughout the dances.

Lastly, I took part in an additional singing rehearsal, where we were given the lyrics of every song in The Pantomime. Before singing, we did some vocal exercises, which helped us to engage our diaphragms. We were told when to breathe in each song and marked this on our lyrics sheets. We learnt that, to project while singing and acting, the key is to open our mouths wider, rather than screaming through our throats. There is also to engage the diaphragm and to sing through your mask (the parts of your cheeks, just under your eyes). Here is a video about pronouncing your words and projecting while acting on the stage:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/learningzone/clips/voice-projection-and-pronunciation-in-drama/9896.html


In addition over the weekend I watched this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=adb3Sfo__nE
Although, The Chorus did not heavily feature in ITV's version of 'The Cinderella Pantomime', it gave me a better idea of how melodramatic (exaggeratedly emotional or sentimental; disproportionately intense) pantomeimes are.

Running Through Act 2 And Dances For 'The Cinderella Pantomime'

We started the day by running through Act 2 of  'The Cinderella Pantomime'. As I recorded myself reacting in this scene, I could see how I needed to improve. I need to work on my posture and I also need to maintain 'the tonic state' which refers to steady, rigid muscle contractions with no relaxation and a lot of tension. I need to vary my facial expressions more and make them bigger.

We rehearsed some of the dances. I have recorded myself doing all three of the dances in the mirror that we have done so far, so that I can see what I need to improve on. The most significant things that change the way in which I dance are the amount of energy I put in and my posture. When my shoulders are back and my head is up, my delivery is much cleaner that otherwise. During rehearsals at college I must apply the same energy that I do at home. The best way to ensure this is to warm up thoroughly before attempting the routines.

Here is a youtube video of me dancing the 'I Gotta Feeling' Dance:
https://www.youtube.com/edit?video_id=tAXjww_p4e0&video_referrer=watch
I need to put more energy into the first part and I must remember to smile.

Here is a youtube video of me dancing to the 'Price Tag' Dance:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wpupkRWVEkU
The part in the middle, when I point to my left and then right needs to be worked on. I can improve it by making my body more tense and making the movements stronger. Some parts of the dance need more energy and I need to learn the exact timing of every movement.

We also had a singing lesson, where we mostly focused on the importance of  using the correct breathing technique and posture when singing. Your feet should be parallel, your spine must be straight (you may have to push the hips forward to achieve this). Your shoulders should be down and relaxed. Your knees mustn't be locked, but instead, relaxed. Your head should be pulled up ,but should be facing straight forward. Here are two examples of bad posture and one of good posture on the right.

 

 

 

 

 



We participated in a few breathing exercises, to help us to control our voices, especially when dancing. It is important that you are engaging 'the anchoring muscles' when singing. The anchoring muscles include the diaphragm, abdominal muscles and the back muscles.

 

Here is a link to a web page about correct breathing and anchoring muscles:

http://wonderofvoice.com/2010/12/07/anchoring-breathing-vs-bodywork/

 

Here is a link to a web page that tells you how to develop the correct posture:

 http://singingself.wordpress.com/category/technique/

 

Here is the link to a video that demonstrates a breathing exercise, similar to that which we done today, that helps to improve your breath capacity:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31gNi8FIV2o

 

Dramatic Intention

Dramatic intention refers to the purpose of a play, film, or gig etc. For singers, actors and dancers, their dramatic intention is usually to entertain. However the dramatic intentions of performers can differ, depending on the performance and the artist. For example the dramatic intentions of performers can be:
To make the audience think differently about an issue

• To make the audience feel differently about an issue
• To make the audience feel or think differently about themselves
• To celebrate something.
• To criticise something
• To encourage the audience to change something

Everything that is useful has a purpose. e.g. a light switch's purpose is to turn on a light, which keeps you from being in darkness. The purpose of a packet of crisp, is to stop you from feeling hungry, to give you energy and to provide you with something to do during your lunchtime.

An example of an artist's dramatic intentions would be Eminem, who wants to explain to people what life was like growing up in the rough area of Detroit. He wishes to describe, in vivid detail the problems he had growing up under the care of his drunken Mother and abusive Stepfather. He brings forward political issues, in a hope to make people think differently about current situations. He wants to change peoples thoughts about the issue of race. He also wants to inspire young people in similar situations to that of his in the past.

My dramatic intention for The Cinderella Pantomime, is simply to entertain. I want the audience to enjoy themselves thoroughly and also, to return home content with the show as a whole. Also, hopefully, I might inspire people to become performers.

Dances For The Cinderella Pantomine

Today we mainly focused on the dances for the pantomime. We started by running through the final dance of The Pantomime to the song 'Let Me Entertain You' by Robbie Williams. Practising in front of a mirror at home, and at college has definitely helped me to improve on my performance of this dance (My blog from the Tuesday 19th December shows a video of me rehearsing this dance at college). However, I did struggle to pick up the new choreography (The art of creating a sequence of steps and movements in a dance) that has been added to the dance. I also need to make my movements 'bigger', so that they come across more onstage Therefore I will rehearse this at home in front of a mirror 10 times a day, without music and with music to get the timing right (timing refers to the regulation of occurrence, pace, or coordination to achieve a desired effect, in music, the theatre, dance etc.).

Here is a link to a web page, that I have read, which explains the meaning of choreography in detail:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Choreography_(dance)

Later, we learnt a new dance for the opening of Act 2. The dance is to the song 'Price Tag' by Jessie J. I was slow at picking up the new choreography. However, I practised it during lunch time. I then went home to practised it 20 times in front of a mirror and I now know the part of the dance that we learnt. I need to practise with the music to get the timing correct. The more frequently I practise this dance the better my movement memory (movement memory refers to the acquisition and retention of sensations that aid the body in remembering movements) for the dance will improve.

Vocal Tone and Vocal Range

On Tuesday we had a singing lesson, where we learnt about how to improve your control vocals and the tone of your singing voice (a sound of distinct pitch, quality, and duration; a note). We learnt that engaging yuour abdominal muscles while singing, as opposed to your singing from your throat, results in the best possible quality to your voice.

Here is a link to a web page that describes what vocal tone is:
http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/defining-tone-in-singing.html

Here are some videos that also decribe the meaning of  'vocal tone' and the techniques that you can use to improve it. They also give you some vocal excersises, which I find very helpful:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zxt4TcAkkSk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1DSwxVv1f8
Another great exercises, for this is lying flat on your back and singing. This way, it is very difficult for you to lift your shoulders, as you breathe from your chest. This forces you to breathe from your stomach, which should make it easier to sing using your abdominal muscles.

Here is a youtube video of me singing through my throat.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wykmd-N8aYk
Here is a video of me singing, while engaging my abdominal muscles.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acc5hccVepw

I have been using online tutorials, as well as exercises that I have learnt at college to improve my range (vocal range is the measure of the breadth of pitches that an individuals voice can produce). Specifically, my higher range. Here is one of the videos that I have used:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L-zv1dpom94
I especially find lip trills helpful as they allow me to go through all of my range very easily.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPkuFCKQoJE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EX3EQjt_kzE
This youtube videos, show the improvement I have made on my vocal range so far. At times , I sound like I'm straning in the first and in the second I sing out of tune, which I could have improved by engaging my stomach muscles more. It is the highest I can currently sing in my chest voice (Your singing voice closest to your speaking voice). I can however sing a lot higher in my head voice (The higher range of your voice, where the vibrations are felt in the head). The riffs at the end went wrong (

a riff is a short repeated phrase in popular music and jazz, frequently played over changing chords or harmonies or used as a background to a solo improvisation).

I need to keep using vocal exercises to improve my range in my chest voice.

Peer Feedback For The Cinderella Pantomime

The day began with breathing exercises, used to increase our breath capacity and relax our bodies. Then we stretched our bodies to relieve tension. This video, from The Song Bird Tree, explains the importance of relieving tension in the body, and includes demonstrations of exercises that yo can do to to get rid of it. It explains how tension in the muscles absorbs sound, which makes your voice sound strained, especially when singing.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBSaMrKku54
Then we participated in warm up games, including one where we had to walk around with our eyes closed. The aim of this, was to familiarise ourselves with the room, using our 4 remaining senses, other than our sight. It is a good exercises to help you to engage in your other senses, other than sight, when acting.

Then we had a singing lesson, where we learnt about the various vocal registers . Theses include; The head voice- the higher part of your vocal range, where the vibrations are felt in the head; http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/feeling-the-head-voice-in-singing.html,
The chest voice- which is the range closest to your speaking voice http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chest_voice,
The vocal fry- which is the part of your voice below your chest voice.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVEDc466XvI, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dbym1oVNIfg, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7EIHRlk2JwA,
We also learnt about the mixed voice- which is a mix between pars of your head voice and chest voice. The best way to Chanel your mixed voice, is to sing with nasal resonance. Nasal resonance occurs when you talk/ sing through your nose. You should feel vibrations inside your nose.It is often confuses with nasality, which actually occurs, when the larynx is raised.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CYEsGuldIQY, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNf9vHXjkI0
Here is a video about nasal resonance and nasality
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHgk4lYDipM

I decided to rehearse the finale dance for The Pantomime, with a group from college today. We ran though it a couple of times and then recorded ourselves, in order to watch ourselves back, to see what we need to improve on. Here is the link to the video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gPwNAgdiwHs
We only learnt it last week Thursday, but I find that rehearsing it in my free time, in front of a mirror, helps me to better my ability to perform this dance. I need to make the first turn a lot sharper and memorise the precise moves and order of the dance. I also need to make my moves sharper in general.

Later we had to perform Act One of The Cinderella Pantomime to The Year 2s and level 2s, where they subsequently reviewed us. It was the first time I had worked with a prop, (a theatrical property) which was a basket, in this play. It is important that I hit my mark on time ('hitting the mark' refers to getting to the correct position), so I need to practise this with the prop.

I was given feedback that my starting position for the dance was very distant from the other Chorus Members. So if the person, who is usually in front of me is not present for the dance, it is important that I change my starting position. I also need to improve on my characterization (the representation of a character or characters on the stage or in writing, especially by imitating or describing actions, gestures, or speeches) and physicality ( the quality of being physical, especially when emphasised or overemphasised), so that it comes across more onstage.

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10153539257335022

Above is a link to our peers' recording of our dance for our opening number. It is beneficial to record yourself dancing, acting, singing etc. so that you can see with your own eyes the mistakes that you have made. I can see that I need to dance with more confidence. My posture is often slouched when standing still and walking. In addition, I need to but more energy into the dance and I need to work on the bit in the middle where I went wrong.

Blocking The Cinderella Pantomime Again: Part 1

The task today was to restart blocking through the first part of Act One of Cinderella (blocking is a theatre term that refers to the exact movement and positioning of actors on a stage in preparation for a play). At times, I over-thought the reaction, so I will do some self-set homework and watch pantomimes in order to observe the chrorus' reactions. This will create the opportunity for me to interpret ideas for performance material- which refers to using ideas from other performances in that of your own.

Before blocking, we participated in warm ups and breathing exercises. As an actor, it is important to control the way in which you breathe as this can affect your voice and movement onstage (especially if you are nervous). A way in which you can identify whether your breathing is controlled is by breathing in and then say the word 'ma' as you breathe out for as long as you can, until the breathing becomes staccato (staccato refers to each sound or note being sharply detached or separated from the others). A way of achieving a steady breathing pace is by inhaling for a few seconds and then exhaling for a longer number of seconds.

This video, created by 'New York Vocal Coaching', explains how to deal with nerves on stage, especially when singing. At 2:30 minutes he talks about the importance of exhalation, when trying to relax.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6V74o8TgP-I

A point raised by The Director today was that some of the main characters should become familiar with 'The Clock'. 'The Clock' is mainly used in 'Commedia Del Arte' and 'Clowning'. It is used to make the audience feel involved- as the actor will usually look to the audience for there consent to do something that is often very mischievous. For example, if a character is about to 'pie' another character, in the face, the one with the pie might look at the other character, then the audience, then at the pie, then to the audience again, get their consent and then 'pie' the other character. However it does not necessarily have to always be in that order.

Who?, Where?, What?, Why?, How? Excersise

Who?, Where?, What?, Why?, How?

Who Am I?
I'm Veronica Anastasia Greene. I've just turned 27 years old. I'm quite poor, but I have a part time job, so I'm in a better position than where I was before I started working as a waitress for The Royal Family. I have a cockney accent and I'm a cheeky, chirpy young lady, who's slightly tomboyish, but who's up for a good laugh. I've nearly always got a smile on my face, as I try to look at all the positive things in life. I've got black hair and dark brown eyes. I'm about 5'4'', so I'm quite petite. I'm of average build and I like to where a big dress, traditional to Merrivale.

Where am I?
I'm in the middle of Merrivale Market. Standing behind my tiny, oak veg stall. Merrivale Market, is the busiest, most popular market in Merrivale. People of all classes and backgrounds come here just to be a part of its joyous atmosphere.

What am I doing here?
I'm giving away free veg! I do it to please the wonderful people of Merrivale. It may be stolen, but it's worth shoplifting to see the elated looks on their faces. I stock all kinds of veg on the shelves, at the bottom of my stall. I give away all types of veg- from carrots to cucumbers. I'm also stocking bread now, as favour to the people of Merrivale. Sometimes I move away from my stall, to promote my 'buissness', but I carry my bread in my huge basket, so that I can offer it to people as I'm on the move.

What can I see around me?
Other people on the stalls are shouting across the street, in a bid to sell their products. Passers by, of all ages, skip around the market in delight, as they catch a glimpse of there favourite chelsea bun or get a scent of freshly picket roses. It is so crowded, I can barely see the person on the stall beside me. Though I can just about spot some the royal blue tulips peeking out of a ready made bouquet of flowers- so it's definitely the flower stall. The sun shines down on the beautifully coloured, stone buildings and the grey pavements are paved with the gold shimmer of sunlight.

Why am I here?
I've been stealing since I was 14, because I started hanging out with the wrong crowd. I thought it was the only way to get out of poverty. However, when my family found out, they completely disowned me, so I was forced to move to Merrivale. I miss the sense of warmth and protection that you get with your family and so I hope to find that again with the people of Merrivale. I believe that the best way to gain their love and trust is to give them things, for free. As I can't afford to go buying things and giving them away, I have no choice but to steal from the local bakers.

How do I feel?
I try to take things on the chin, so I'm mostly cheerful. I have a huge smile on my face nearly all of the time and if I'm not happy, I put on a brave face and pretend to be, because that's what the people of Merrivale like to see. I miss my family dearly and sometimes I cry to myself, because I know the reason I haven't seen them for 3 years is of my own doing. I do feel guilty when I steal, especially because I get on with Jeff The Grocer, but he knows what I'm like, so then I just get on it.

Back To The Way I Started

Today we ran through act one of 'The Cinderella Panto'. The more energy I put into it, the less able I am to focus, sufficiently on the task set. It is possible to over-rehearse, which makes the actor appear less naturalistic. However in panto, everything is suppose to be over exaggerated. So that I can focus fully on the main characters it's better that I tone it right down and just go back to the way I acted in the beginning for now, because I've lost some of my initial ideas, which could be very helpful. As learnt in college, usually your first ideas are your best ones, as the others have been far too over thought.

We began learning the dance to 'Let Me Entertain You' by Robbie Williams. I went wrong quite a bit, as I always do when first learning a dance. I am still slow to pick up choreography (the composition of dance steps and sequences for stage dancing) and I need to stop getting confused with my lefts and rights. A method of improving this is to find something in the room and call it 'Right' and also it might be beneficial to begin making up my own choreography to songs, so that I get quicker at picking up others' choreography. I can improve by practising this dance at home at least 10 times a day to the music, sharpening up on the moves and memorising the order of the routine. Also, The music should help me with keeping the right timing.

Running Through Part Of 'Cinderella'

Today we ran through part of act one of 'Cinderella'. I could still have put more energy into performing, so it would be beneficial to warm up more before college to improve this. When practising my sight reading and characterisation by reading monologues and improvising, I need to read more 'happy' monologues and improvise as happier characters, to get in the mood for Panto.

It was mentioned by the director that the pantomime, in general, is currently 'flat' (lacking in energy and boring for the audience to watch). It was also said that, in places, there is too much 'air' (meaning that too much time has passed between peoples lines).

We ran through the dance at least 5 times. I put more energy into the dance by the third run, but I should have done this sooner. I need to practise dancing at home with the music, in front of a mirror at least 20 times a day to get the dance moves moves as strong and precise as possible. My position in the dance got switched and then it was suddenly switched again without anyone notifying me, so I had to change back to my original position in the middle of the dance and it threw me off a bit. The professional approach would be to just swiftly move into the empty position, and carry on. In the future, this is the approach that I must adopt, as someone could easily take the incorrect position on stage during an actual show.

When it came to acting as part of The Chorus, I thought that I could have put more energy into my performance. I think I need to practise this character's reactions in front of a mirror more. I also need to make each move, stronger and sharper. I've never been part of an 'Acting Chorus' before so I have to watch some pantomimes and musicals to observe how they react.

I was given feedback that onstage I looked evil, moody and unattractive. The main cause of this is probably because in the past I had a track record of playing the evil villain, as well as aggressive and sly characters. The only two characters I've ever played that were 'happy' were the Scarecrow in The Wizard Of Oz and John Landis at Sadlers Wells. I need to apply the techniques I used to portray these characters to my character in Panto. For example, for the Scarecrow I had to use lots of energy and physicality to become the character. I also had to keep my eyebrows lifted and eyes wide, to appear more friendly. For John Landis, I was on a big stage so every move had to be big and extremely over exaggerated to come across to every audience member. I also smiled constantly, which is what I must do in Panto, with the exception of reacting to 'The Baroness'.

Filming In Royston

Yesterday we ran through part of act one of 'The Cinderella Panto'. I felt that I could have put more energy into acting and especially the dancing. I must bring the same energy to every run through as it is practise for the actual show. I think the best way that I can achieve this is by warming up. Therefore I should stretch more in the morning, as well as power walk faster than usual.

Later we travelled to Royston to film. It was my first experience of filming, so it was interesting to see how it worked. I did a scene in the pub in a group of 4, where we had to hold glasses and talk to each other. We had to do it a couple of takes for each shot to ensure that The Camera Man got the best result possible. We then moved on to do an outdoor scene in which we had to walk out of a cinema in various directions. We only filmed through this once because the first time was successful.

From this experience I have learnt that during filming sometimes you have to do more than one take for the purpose of achieving the best end result. In addition, I've discovered that you have to act more natural when working for film as opposed to theatre work because your not on a stage, so you don't have to exaggerate your movements and expressions for all the audience members to see .

This image shows that the actor (on the left) has to perform to the camera, as opposed to a live audience as in a theatre. Acting for film is very different to acting for theatre for many reasons; the dynamics are different (less noise/ more noise depending on the locution), there are more distractions (cars, pedestrians walking past) and there is no audience to react to your performance, so you must make judgements on the quality of your performance by yourself. 

Dancing and Singing Practice For Panto

Today we started with some aerobics and fitness training to better our fitness levels. As I worked out quite a lot last week at home, I feel my fitness has improved, but I need to work on my core strength by planking or doing sit ups at home. When it came to 'corner work', I went in the completely wrong direction. I really need to improve on my coordination, but it tends to be a lot worse when I am tired, so I need to try harder to sleep on the nights before college.

We practised the dance for 'I Gotta Feeling'. I now practise ten times a day with music. However, I really need to work on my timing for a certain move. I also need to make sure that it doesn't show on my face when I make mistakes. We practised in front of a mirror, as I do at home and I was quite content with my execution of the dance moves. The only way I can improve is through practise, dancing with confidence and getting a proper nights sleep, as it really affects me if I don't.

We practised singing 'I Gotta Feeling', 'Price Tag' and 'I Want To Break Free'. I need to work on singing these higher. I can sing higher, I just naturally sing lower, and so I need to used my higher range when I'm singing. I have learnt the lyrics to the songs, I just need to memorise the parts that the chorus sing.

The Dance For I've Got a Feeling and Running Through Act One Of Panto

Today, I decided to put 100 per cent into everything. I just need to make sure that I can do this consistently throughout the college year. As mentioned in my last blog, I think that practising my performing arts skills over the half term has helped me to improve in all areas (singing, dancing and acting). I think that I should make sure that I watch these videos whenever I have free time. However I must practise projects for college all of the time.

In dance lessons, I was given notes that I was doing well, so I need to dance like this all of the time. If I can do that and other things alike, I just need to deliver them with confidence in the future. The more we ran through the dance, the more that I messed up with the timing and the moves. This is probably due to fatigue, but it is probably more to do with keeping focused, so I need to improve on mental endurance. I will now run through it at least ten times a day and I will dance to the track to improve on timing. In addition, I must sing at all times during the dance, so I will practise this also.

I put a lot of energy into running through act one and remembered my cues. I need to continue to practise my facial expressions and reactions in front of a mirror to make sure that they are in relation with my character.

October Half Term

Over the half term I spent 4 hours, for 4 days of the week watching tutorials and improving on my performing arts skills. I spent 1 hour on singing, an hour on dancing and an hour on acting everyday. I have also been watching piano tutorials and practising on my keyboard, to better my knowledge of music theory.

On Monday I watched and practised along with these tutorials:
For Singing:
I practised the songs for panto.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHIU0jIJ3aw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=10zTYfosRoY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2eSbUlbLTKw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UMPsoeYj67s
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkGBx7bIVtk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KN5368Aoxlk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9tgPo1MIAhc
For Dancing:
I practised the dance for college
I did an hour of freestyle street dancing to music.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=03Ka-hVFjo0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O8NMVUGwfSU
For Acting:
I read some monologues online, read scripts, learnt my cues, did some improvisation and practised with my character for panto.

On Wednesday I watched and practised along with these tutorials:
For Singing:
I practised the songs for panto.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mDQoMyPmg9s
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRtwIGbSqQ4
For Dancing:
I practised the dance for college
http://www.monkeysee.com/play/9843-contemporary-dancing-side-and-circular-stretches
For Acting:
I read some monologues online, read scripts, learnt my cues, did some improvisation and practiced with my character for panto.

On Thursday I watched and practised along with these tutorials:
For Singing:
I practised the songs for panto.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHgk4lYDipM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cLglQMqvfgw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LkmRkVXxAo0
For Dancing:
I practised the dance for college
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-vAx1U5Ao4
For Acting:
I read some monologues online, read scripts, learnt my cues, did some improvisation and practised with my character for panto.

On Friday I watched and practised along with these tutorials:
For Singing:
I practised the songs for panto.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UMPsoeYj67s
 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XfUwvJC7tGQ
 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mOFiTYka_-w
For Dancing:
I practised the dance for college
Did an hour of freestyle street dancing to music.
I practised from the first ten videos of this playlist http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BaDmoeW6sEc&list=SPF6166F725D8AA1DE
For Acting:
I read some monologues online, read scripts, learnt my cues, did some improvisation and practised my character for panto.

During the weekend I practised the songs for panto, I practised the dance for panto, I practised with my character for panto and I also read more scripts to help with sight reading.

I feel that using the half term in this way was a very productive way to use my time. I have used some of these videos and also, videos by the same people before in the summer holidays and on my days off from college, but I find them very helpful. By dancing in front of a mirror, I feel that I have improved on the precision of the moves in street dancing. My range seems to have improved since before the summer holidays and I know more of the technical terms for singing. My sight reading still needs more practise, but my acting technique is stronger than in the past.

Forced Entertainment Trip

Yesterday was mainly focused on "Creative choices". Not only did I help to chaperon for the students, but I also found the way in which lighting, sound, costume, make up and set design play a major part in theatre. This was demonstrated in the final performance of a scene from 'Cinderella', which contrasted greatly with the original performance, which lacked all of these things.

Later we went on a trip to a theatre in Cambridge to watch a production by a company called "Forced Entertainment". It was called "Tomorrow's Parties" and it involved a man and a woman having a conversation about the possibilities of things happen in the future. They mentioned everything- from the effects of global warming to aliens. Although, when answering questions, the actors told us that the play was not intended for a specific audience, I believe that the purpose of the show was to make people reflect on what they are doing now, and how it will affect the future.

'Tomorrow's Parties' was very interesting, as it is unlike any production I have seen or acted in before. However, I believe I can learn from there abstract ideas, and interpret these ideas for performance material. I also think that the idea of improvising a couple of times on a particular topic, recording it, playing it back and then editing it so that it only includes the best parts, is an interesting way to make a scripted play look more naturalistic.

Here is a link to Forced Entertainment's website
http://www.forcedentertainment.com/

And Here is the link for 'Tomorows Parties'
http://www.forcedentertainment.com/page/144/Theatre-Performances/132#-gallery

Exploring my character for panto, dancing and singing

The day began with a theory lesson. We were given a brief on Stanislavsi's method for acting, which luckily I learnt about while studying at home. It involves 'the emotional memory'-accessing emotions by thinking back to events that will trigger these emotions. I use this method generally, but it is difficult to feel and show the same emotion each time. I will benefit from using other methods, such as the Michael Chekhov technique, which involves exploring the psychology of your character by drawing inspiration from those around you and using your imagination, to decide what your character would do next.
Here is the link to a website that explains a range of acting techniques, used by different actors. http://www.acting-school-stop.com/acting-techniques.html

We were then asked to right about our character in the first person and to decide where they were physically and how they felt at the time. This took a lot of deep thought, which is a great contrast to 'The Hot Seat, where you are required to say the first thing that comes to mind. I learnt at college that it is better to go on your first thoughts as these are rawer and appear more naturalistic. When I was in 'The Hot Seat', I managed to respond in greater detail than in the past and remained in character. I must continue acting as this character throughout the entire pantomime. Therefore I need to work on further developing the character as self-set homework. A way of doing this is by improvising in character, to get a better acquainted with the way in which they would react in certain situations. You can then apply this to the task set.

Dance went well. I just need to polish each move by practising at home. I need to get the timing exact by listening to the music at home. Singing also went okay, but I do need to practise pitching (pitch is defined as the relative position of a tone within a range of musical sounds, as determined by this quality) at home, as otherwise I sing too low. I need to remember to listen to my voice through my forehead so that I can hear myself. I also need to learn the exact lyrics at home and record myself, especially when singing the new harmonies. Lastly, I had extra rehearsals for the performance of 'Shadowland'. I have learnt the harmonies, but I still need to practise, with the backing track at home.

Running Through Cinderella, Warm ups and Dance

Today we had to complete a variety of tasks. However, we began the day with warm ups and breathing exercises, so that we would have enough energy and were relaxed enough to perform. We also participated in a game in which we had to find a way to get to the other side of a jumping rope as it moved. I believe that we did this to test how willing we were to take risks. I didn't volunteer to do it on my own, which I should have. I did however make an attempt in a three and then in a pair. This shows that I need to be more independent when it comes to taking risks. It is good to take risks, especially in devised performances, as quite often, abstract ideas, that work surprisingly well come from risk taking.

Then we ran through act one of 'Cinderella'. At first, my character lacked energy, mainly because I was tired, but I need to stop letting this get in the way of my performance. The second time we ran through 'Cinderella', we had just had a dance warm up and I brought that energy into my performance. I should do this in the morning, so that my character constantly has the right level of energy.

We have started to learn the choreography for the opening song of The Pantomime, 'I've Got a Feeling'. I am improving greatly on picking up choreography and timing, but I need to stop making mistakes, and if I do, I must simply carry on and smile. I can avoid making mistakes in the future by practising the routine at home . I also need to work on getting the moves exactly right, by paying close attention to the choreographer.

My Character for the 'Cinderella Panto'

My character for the pantomime is named Veronica Anastasia Greene. She is 27 years old and is originally from The East-end of London. She therefore has a cockney accent, which is far more prominent when she goes about selling her goods at The Market. She wears a traditional Merrivale dress, has back hair and big brown eyes, impelling individuals to perceive her as a sweet and innocent young lady.

Veronica's relocation to Merrivale was due to her family disowning her after they discovered that she had a secret life as a thief. Despite this, she is a friendly, happy-go-lucky type of girl, who is not very lady-like at all. It was her cheeky and slightly mischievous persona that had gotten her involved with Mickey Richards when she was 14. He lead her into a life of deception, dishonestly and shoplifting, brainwashing her into believing that what they were doing was in no way 'wrong' and that it was the only way to accomplish her dreams of being wealthy. Although she was quite good at English, she failed every other class at her school and has always seriously lacked in common sense.

Nowadays, Veronica has discerned that most beneficial thing she can do for herself is to put the past behind her. She adores all of her fellow villagers and enjoys laughing and gossipping with her dearest of friends. However, she relentlessly goes about stealing vegetables from the local Grocer's and gives it away for free at her stall in The Market. She goes to these tremendous lengths because her primary desire is to be reacquainted with the fantastic warmth, comfort and love of a family and she considers the people of Merrivale the perfect candidates for new family members. Recently, she has also begun selling bread, as requested by the people of Merrivale, which are of course stolen form the local Grocers'.

While attempting to thieve an over-sized turkey from the dining room table of the Princes Palace last year, she was spotted by a guard. He mistook her for an excessively considerate guest, who had volunteered to set the table for The Royal Family. Subsequently, a day later, she was offered a part-time job as a servant girl- which she enthusiastically accepted. She has always dreamt about what it would be like to be posh and privileged, which is the sole reason why she began shoplifting in the first place. This job is the perfect opportunity for her to act ridiculously rich, and get on the good side of The Upper Class Members of Merrivale.

Veronica enjoys a good party and is a huge fan of The Royal Family. On the other hand she manages to restrain herself from getting too carried away at The Ball as she takes her part-time job extremely seriously. She gets on well with her fellow Servants and, like all of them, she wants to make sure that all The Guests at The Ball are satisfied with their service.

Running Through Cinderella and Preparing for performance of 'Shadowland'

Today we blocked through 'Cinderella' twice to make sure that we get enough practise for Act 2. I put a lot of energy into performing, but I just need to get the facial expressions, reactions and timing perfect. My timing has improved for Act 2, but I just need to make sure that I know my cues (a cue is the signal, such as a word or action, used to prompt another event in a performance, such as an actor's speech or entrance, a change in lighting, or a sound effect).

Later we rehearsed the harmonies for 'Shadowland'. I volunteered to perform this as part of work experience. I did go out of tune some of the times when singing, but I sung louder than usual. I need to make sure that I don't sing flat (a note lower than the intended note by a semitone) or too low. I also need to work on belting and hitting high notes.

Here is a promotional poster for the show I took part in for work experience at The Alban Arena'. We had to sing as part of a 7 part vocal group. We had to sing 'Shadowland' onstage and we sung other familiar songs from The Lion King in the wings (the sides of a stage that cannot be seen by the people watching the play) on microphones. It was important to remember our harmonies and cues, as well as the lyrics for 'Shadowland' off by heart.

 View of the stage, from the wings. 

Singing, Acting and Jogging

Today I pushed myself harder I have done so far at college. I worked at talking to new people in order to improve my confidence. I pushed myself to the limit while jogging and sung in front of everyone.

First of all we warmed up and then we went straight into running through the Act 1 of 'The Cinderella Panto'. I made sure that I made all of my facial expressions as big as possible and put a lot of effort into reacting to the main characters. I also added movement to my character at the beginning and when reacting.

Secondly, we had to participate in long distance jogging, in order to improve our fitness (especially our stamina) in general, so we are better able to provide the intense amount of energy needed for the long hours of work in shows. I am a lot fitter than I used to be, as I did not fall all the way to the back, which is what I normally would do. I have never been that far in front before and even when I did get tired, I power walked. I feel that I could not have done any more than what I did and so I only need to work on furthering my limits by working out more at home.

Lastly we had singing lessons. We sung 'Price Tag' by Jessie J in preparation for the Pantomime. I used the technique of listening to myself through my forehead in order to hear myself sing. Afterwards we were asked to sing lines from the song solo. Although I sounded shaky at first and went out of tune, this is the first time I have managed to sing in front of people without shaking and getting very nervous in general. I need to work on controlling my voice still, which I can work on by watching more vocal coaching videos and practising at home.

Blocking through Cinderella and Run Through

Today we blocked through Cinderella and then a ran through it. At first I thought that I lacked energy. I need to read the stage instructions carefully and highlight them. I also need to make sure that I am constantly putting 100 per cent into reacting to The Main Characters at all times.

I have been practising with monologues everyday in order to improve my sight reading. I am getting improving, but I need to work on saying the correct words and avoid stuttering. I also need to work on not gluing my eyes to the script so often, as it restricts my ability to react to other characters and also my movement onstage.

Blocking through Cinderella and Singing

We had to block through Cinderella today. I now have to serve drinks in one of the scenes, so I need to make sure I put enough energy into doing this. I also need to make sure that I pass the drinks around to everyone and move around continuously.

I imagine this to be the correct physicality for a waitress to The Royal Family in Merrivale. Though I may need to make some adjustments to show that I am still in character.

Later we had singing lessons. The harmonies for Shadowland are coming together really well, so I need to make sure I get the alto part right by listening to the recording and practising everyday. I am getting better at singing in large groups, due to this video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KK_42Vyo3iw

I also volunteered to sing in a show outside of college. I am getting better at putting myself forward. I just need to put myself forward for absolutely everything.

Singing, Dancing and Acting 3

Today was mainly focused on singing and dancing. I thought I put more effort into both lessons than ever before, and therefore the results were better. I remembered to keep the correct posture for dance, endured the entire fitness routine and sung louder than before. Although I stilll couldn't hear myself when I sung so I coudn't tell if I hit the correct notes. The best way I can improve this is to practice more singing at home.

I've been practicing sight reading and involving more movement when acting, using monologues from various websites. I've been using a diverse range of characters to develope a better sense of characterisation. When reading monologues it is important that I keep the necessary pace and rhythm to sound genuine and believable.

Blocking through Cinderella

Today, the casting list was revealed for 'Cinderella, The Panto'. I am one of the villagers. We had to block through the beginning of Act One of the show. So far I have to sell bread and react to 'The Baroness entering from stage left. I need to be more alert and listen to stage directions straight away. I also need to make sure that I keep the correct posture at all times.

This diagram illustrates some of the different postures that people can adopt when on stage or otherwise. The image on the far right demonstrates the way in which an actor should stand. Both feet should be on the ground, hip width apart, with all the toes on the ground. The spine should be straight, with the bottom tucked in and the shoulders down. The beck should also be straight and the head should be facing forward. This posture is also ideal for singing as this video explains:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XO2lJCTPcjM

It is interesting that the Baroness enters from stage left as she is the villain in this pantomime and it is tradition that the evil villain to enter from stage left. It is also tradition that the fairy enters from stage right, as is done in this pantomime. The reason for this is that it comes from earlier theatre and religious plays where heaven was always portrayed on the right and hell on the left. The 'left and right superstition' is also demonstrated by people throwing salt over your left shoulder (into the face of the devil) and when the left palm itches it is a sign of poverty, but with the right it is the sign of wealth. Also the left ear itching is a sign that someone is talking about you behind your back. In addition, in Da Vinci's painting of The Last Supper, Judas Iscariot (the man who betrayed Jesus) is sat to the left of Christ. Another tradition is that the good fairy transfers her wand from her right hand to her left when dealing with evil foes.

It is ideal to volunteer for any extra roles, as an actor should take every opportunity to act and regardless of the number of lines you have it is important to poor yourself into any role. I also need to work on establishing my status as a character. Here is a video that shows how an actor can use body language, posture and the voice to show different levels of status.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/learningzone/clips/drama-creating-status/9895.html

Auditions for "Cinderella Panto'

Everyone had to audition today for the 'Cinderella, The Panto'. I had prepared to audition for 2 characters- 'The Baroness' and 'The Fairy God Mother'. I was going to audition for 'The Fairy God Mother' with a group of other year 1 students. However, I was only asked to be 'The Baroness' again with another partner.

I chose to audition as 'The Baroness' as I have nearly always played the 'Evil Villan' in the past and I find that I can be more creative with such a character, as opposed to a lighter and happier character. I prepared for her by reading the script a couple of times as all the different characters and then I read only, all of  The Baroness and The Fairy godmother's lines 10 times.  Each time I tried a different approach to the character (for example at one point my version of 'The Fairy Godmother' had a Jamaican accent and at another, I changed my facial expressions and lowered my pitch to make her seem less cheerful, and more of a diva), until I found the best voice and characterisation (representation of a character or characters on the stage or in writing, especially by imitating or describing actions, gestures, or speeches) possible, taking into account the honest opinion of others (these were generally critical people), which is always helpful as it is difficult to objectively judge your own performance. I then set myself the task of reading the two characters' lines from my two chosen scenes at least 10 times a day each (until the day of the auditions), as I find that repetitively reading the lines on a daily basis is the best way for me to learn them.  I also took time to improvise with each character in front of a mirror, in order to view their facial expressions and physical movement as I worked to develop my characterisation for them.

My first impression of 'The Baroness' was that she was an evil woman who was extremely over dramatic (in her first scene when she faints at the sight of Cinderella) and somewhat scary. I also thought that she was very wealthy, very snobby and had a high status. I thought that she would be the type of character to stop at nothing until she got that which she wanted and was terribly jealous of Cinderella.

I chose a scene which involved 'The Baroness' and her husband, having a heated discussion. I eventually came to think that my version of the character was slightly emotionally unstable, which was especially more obvious when she came close to not getting what she wanted. I tried to show this by widening my eyes, becoming very tense and slightly shaking. For example, when I tore up the ticket I made myself tense and bared my teethe to show that my character was in an absolute rage. In addition, I thought that she could be quiet cattish towards Cinderella. For example when I said "And what about your precious Cin-der-ella....." I pronounced each syllable of 'Cind-der-ell-a' slowly, crossed my arms, narrowed my eyes hatefully and moved my head from side to side as if to make a joke of The Baron's feelings toward his daughter.

For 'The Baroness', I researched other actresses' versions of this character. For example, I observed the Ella Enchanted and Rogers and Hammerstein versions of her.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0327679/ and http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0128996/.
I was influenced by Joanna Lumley's posh accent, as I thought it made 'The Baroness' quite intimidating, snobby and almost unapproachable.
I also influenced by Bernadette Peters' version, as I though that her version of the character had many dimensions (jealousy, insecurity, hatred) and her physicality was perfect for this character. Had I auditioned with a different scene from the script I would have portrayed this more, with my own diva-like twist.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqSArKfpSdQ

My first impression of 'The Fairy Godmother' was that she was an excessively kind, mature woman who was somewhat comedic in the way in which she spoke (especially when pretending to be an old lady). I though that she took pleasure in helping Cinderella to go to the ball and felt that that is what Cinderella deserved.

Although I didn't get to audition as The Fairy Godmother. We were asked to come up with a completely nontraditional, and creatively different version of the character. I would have made her a typical African-American 'Diva', taking inspiration from Jackee Harry's Lisa Landry Sims (Sister Sister) for the comical, fun side.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgRewBKF1o0

I also looked at Whitney Houston's Roger and Hammerstein's (1997) version of the fairy Godmother for the serious, deeper side to the character.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vK4qTw1x2EY (from 3:39 mins)

Although I would have consistently smiled to make her seem more friendly. As when preparing for 'The Baroness' audition, I practised the facial expressions and movement in the mirror. Using ideas from other performances is known as interpreting ideas for performance material. Using these ideas and adding your own ideas to performance is known as applying ideas creatively.

After discussing with the peers that I was to do the group audition with, we chose to do a scene in which Buttons would try to cheer Cinderella up and then he would go off, for Cinderella to meet her Fairy Godmother. As I was to make my entrance as an 'old lady', I would walk to my position slowly, holding my back as if I suffered from terrible back pain. My voice was very obviously shaky and my accent became deeply southern (as 'The Fairy Godmother' was in disguise). My version of the character was somewhat overly dramatic as I would click her fingers up high and stomp the ground as she loudly stated "I AM... your fairy Godmother!" with the emphasis on the 'AM', in my African- American accent. Also when I said ,"Weave the thread from the thistledown." I would play make my hair bounce, with my hand, to make reference to the fact that she my character was wearing a weave. I addition this characters movements were very big, with a lot of attitude and confidence.

I thought that my first audition for 'The Baroness' was the best audition I have done at college yet. I managed to do the audition the way in which I had prepared it, for the most part. However, I thought the characters voice was a little high and continuously tense (in the tonic state), which could be difficult to maintain. I used more movement than usual, but I think my moves could have been sharper.

I felt that my second audition for 'The Baroness' wasn't as good as the first. However I did manage to find a voice for the character that was lower in my register, by lowering my larynx, and speaking from my diaphragm. I thought that I used less energy and my movements were less sharp than the first audition. I think in the future I should use the stage more in an audition and develop a greater range of physical movements for the characters.

Lastly, everyone had to do a singing audition. I chose to sing the song 'Shadowland' from "The Lion King Musical". The audition was OK, but I was very nervous to the point where I was shaking and my voice was shaking. Later, when I was asked to sing scales, I did not sing as high as I could have because of my nerves. I need to learn to control my nerves when singing. I could do this by doing breathing exercises, and relieving tension before singing. A way of achieving this is by shaking my body out and stretching every muscle in the body.

Here are some diagrams, showing the position of the larynx in the body and what it looks like from a laryngoscopic view. The larynx is the hollow muscular organ forming an air passage to the lungs and holding the vocal chords in humans; the voice box. I is important to keep it lubricated by drinking plenty of water. I make sure I drink 8 bottles a day in order to achieve this. It i possible to change the position of the larynx. When singing it is ideal to keep a relaxed larynx, which makes bridging(transitioning between different vocal registers) and belt (a vocal technique that produces a high intensity, big, powerful sound in the upper middle pitch range) easier. I can do this by raising my soft palate. If you lower your larynx, the voice is at a lower pitch and if you raise it the voice sounds higher, squeakier and more strained. 

 

Here is a diagram demonstrating the position of the soft palate, which is behind the hard palate. Raising the soft palate allows you to open your throat and also keeps the larynx relaxed. It is therefore very important in singing. Lifting the soft palate also can make your vocal tone less nasal.