Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Lauren Garcia. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Lauren, so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.
Creativity looks different depending on where I am mentally, physically, and emotionally. Often, I take myself on a date to the theatre. I choose a production based on what I need: to laugh, to cry, to ponder – usually all three. I expose myself to new stories. It’s refreshing. Otherwise, I enjoy coloring in my Hocus Pocus coloring book, taking pictures of coffee shops and loved ones, journaling, or finding fashion inspiration. I also love to clean and organize. Is that creative?
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Currently, I’m in London getting my Master’s in Theatre For Young Audiences (TYA). I’m thankful for my experience thus far. This course has challenged and encouraged me to reflect on my place within the theatre-making and education community. I’ve had the opportunity to experiment with various forms of theatre, and I’ve collaborated with some of the UK’s leading TYA artists to develop performances. One of the highlights of my studies has been creating a sensory performance of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night for students with profound and multiple learning disabilities. After I graduate, I will continue developing works from the sensory perspective and offer workshops to theatre teachers, students, and makers alike to implement this form. Theatre should be accessible to everyone.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflection, patience, and self-care. Reflection is the key to growth. After a class, rehearsal, or production – I process the emotional impact of it, how I connected to the context of it, and how I can incorporate what I learned from it in my self-development and creative practice. I have to be patient and enjoy the moments when I may not know the next step in the process. Passion and curiosity are what motivate me. Don’t be afraid to explore beyond what you know and who you know. Following this advice, I was introduced to Sensory Theatre, Actor-Musicianship, and Musicality, which led me to tell stories with new perspectives.
Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?
Confidence. 100%. I’ve taken more time to care for myself by journaling, exercising, and exploring, and I’ve picked up the habit of drinking tea as the British do. I am confident to create, tell stories, and apply for opportunities knowing that the answer may be no. I like to think of the ‘no’ as ‘what’s next?’ And I remind myself that rejection isn’t always personal. Of course, the rejection stings in any capacity. However, it’s about how you respond to rejection through what you choose to do next.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://laurenlgtheatre.wixsite.com/
- Instagram: laurenleegarcia
