When we last checked in I challenged you to spring clean and take stock of your artistic achievements. This time of year lends itself to planning summer programs, fall shows and assessing what artistic, logistical and administrative ingredients you need to make those decisions. While you are envisioning your next goal, don’t forget the most crucial resource: YOU.  Let’s face it, even if you have limitless parent volunteers, a new administrator who was a past thespian and the best group of singers you’ve had in years, nothing happens without YOU.

Take a few minutes and try to sum up who you are as a theatre artist in one word. This will be as rewarding as it is challenging. Examine your roles and how you fit in to the process.  Are you a one-man show that is simply too dog-tired after your last production to glance at the newest releases? As caretakers of musical theater and kids, our lives are in perpetual motion. We rarely take time for self-reflection. I encourage teachers everywhere to use reflection exercises with students at the end of rehearsals, yet I, myself, sometimes struggle when it is time to come clean.

If you are struggling to find that one right word to describe yourself, talk it through with your team or those who know you best.  Whatever your word, take a deep breath, embrace it and go from there. After taking another look at yourself, you may find you’re ready for some fresh ideas or, on the other end of the spectrum, a reminder of “tried and true” best practices.  Remember that there is a giant, supportive community to help administer first aid to the pieces of your puzzle if need be, and getting that perspective on yourself and your role is invaluable for you and your program.

My word?   Envisioning