Trauma In Musical Theatre Training? My Advice For Overcoming It
Overcoming Trauma in Musical Theater: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you're struggling with trauma from your training in musical theater, know that you are not alone. In this blog post, I'll be sharing advice on how to overcome these roadblocks so you can reclaim your power. While I'm not a psychologist or therapist, I've spent my entire career in the musical theater industry, both as a performer and for the past decade, as a college professor, mentor, and coach.
Identify Your Trauma:
The first step in working through these roadblocks is to identify your trauma. Just as I've observed in my clients and students, you can recognize it in how you approach your work, your confidence levels, and even in your day-to-day life. Take some time to notice and identify how your trauma manifests in your work and personal life. Are you avoiding certain roles or shows because of past experiences? Start asking yourself why, and where these feelings come from.
Recognize the Source:
Understanding where your trauma stems from is not only crucial but also empowering. It allows you to gain clarity on the moments that have left an indelible mark on your soul. By taking the time to reflect on these moments, you can start to unravel the tangled web of emotions and identify who or what contributed to these feelings. It might have come from a well-intentioned mentor whose words unwittingly wounded you, a coach who pushed you beyond your limits without considering the toll it was taking on your mental health, a friend who inadvertently invalidated your feelings, or even a peer who made thoughtless remarks.
By recognizing these origins, you can begin to untangle the intricacies of your trauma and take significant strides towards breaking down the roadblocks that have held you back. These roadblocks could be the result of microaggressions you've encountered, those subtle but hurtful comments that chip away at your self-esteem, or the roles you were assigned in the past that didn't align with your true identity. By reflecting on how these experiences have shaped your perception of your capabilities, you can start to reclaim your power and redefine what you are truly capable of achieving.
Discovery Work:
Engaging in discovery work puts you in control of your career. It allows you to delve into the depths of your artistic soul and truly reflect on what initially drew you to the enchanting world of musical theater. Take a moment to close your eyes and let yourself be transported back to the moment that ignited your passion for this art form. Was it the thrill of standing in front of an audience and commanding the stage? Or perhaps it was the transformative power of music that touched your very core. Whatever it may be, hold on to that moment and let it fuel your pursuit of the stories you yearn to tell.
Consider the roles that you aspire to play, the characters whose lives you want to step into and bring to life. Picture yourself embodying these roles, feeling the surge of energy as you connect with the audience and leave a lasting impression. Envision the impact you want to have on the industry, the mark you want to leave behind. Will you be the artist who challenges societal norms through daring performances? Or will you use your platform to amplify underrepresented voices and tell stories that have long been silenced? These questions hold the key to unlocking your artistic potential and shaping the trajectory of your career.
As you embark on this journey of self-discovery, allow yourself to be curious about where you see yourself in your career. Explore different avenues, seek out new experiences, and be open to unexpected opportunities. Your path may not be linear, but that is the beauty of this ever-evolving industry. Embrace the unknown and trust that your passion and dedication will guide you towards the fulfillment of your deepest artistic desires.
Remember, engaging in this introspective work puts you in control of your own destiny. So, take the time to reflect, envision, explore, and embrace the infinite possibilities that await you. The stage is set, and it's time for you to step into the spotlight and make your mark on the world of musical theater.
Take Back Your Power:
Remember, you are in control of your career path. It's crucial to remember that comments or critiques from others are often rooted in their own experiences and insecurities, rather than being an objective reflection of your abilities. Whether feedback was given directly or indirectly, it's important to start taking small actions to regain your confidence and assert your own narrative in the professional sphere. Remember, you have the power to shape your own destiny and define your success on your own terms. So, embrace your uniqueness, trust your instincts, and continue to strive for growth and fulfillment in your career journey.
As you navigate the twists and turns of your professional life, keep in mind that setbacks are just stepping stones toward your ultimate goals. Take each challenge as an opportunity to learn, adapt, and evolve. Remember, it's not about the destination, but rather the journey itself. So, stay focused, stay determined, and stay true to who you are. Your path may not always be straightforward, but as long as you stay committed to your vision and stay open to new possibilities, you will find success in your own unique way.
Trust in yourself, in your abilities, and in the choices you make along the way. Remember, you are the author of your own story, and the pen is always in your hand.
Celebrate Your Wins:
Acknowledging and celebrating your achievements, big or small, is not only essential for building confidence and breaking down mental barriers, but it is also a powerful way to cultivate a sense of fulfillment and motivation. In a world that often highlights constant progress and achievement, it is vital to find moments of celebration to reflect on how far you have come and appreciate the hard work you have put into your endeavors.
However, sometimes it can be challenging to find the right environment to share your wins and receive support. That's why it's important to seek out a community, whether it exists online or in person, where like-minded individuals can uplift one another in their respective journeys. Within this community, you will find a space where you can openly share your achievements without fear of judgment or belittlement, allowing you to bask in the positive energy and encouragement of others. Whether it's an online forum, a social media group, or a local meetup, being part of a supportive community can provide a valuable network of individuals who truly understand the significance of your accomplishments and can help celebrate them alongside you.
So, don't hesitate to seek out and embrace the power of community when it comes to acknowledging and celebrating your achievements – the positive impact it can have on your confidence and overall well-being is immeasurable.
Overcoming trauma in the musical theater industry is a journey that requires self-reflection, resilience, and taking proactive steps to reclaim your power. By identifying and understanding the source of your trauma, engaging in discovery work, and celebrating your wins, you can pave the way for a more confident and fulfilling career in musical theater.
Remember, you are not alone on this journey.
Ashlee Espinosa is an accomplished theatre professional with a Master of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre. With her expertise as an experienced actress, passionate educator, and dedicated career advisor, she helps artists build fulfilling lives and careers based on their definition of success.
