Confidence Through Theatre
I have been doing shows with ECTC since I was six years old and each production has gradually helped me become a more outgoing and confident person. When I got my first job, I was nervous, as anyone would be, but when I realized that it was just communicating with people, a skill ECTC had helped me develop, it became less intimidating. On stage, you learn how to step into someone else’s shoes, but the lessons and skills you learn can be applied beyond performing. I have learned that the things I am taught every Saturday can be applied to my everyday life. After years of performing and gaining stage experience, I became more comfortable talking to people, making professional phone calls, and holding conversations with adults.
Over the last couple weeks I had the privilege to help as a student technical assistant with The 39 Steps. It was honestly one of the most enlightening experiences I have been in. I was able to see what happens backstage of a professional production and I was able to communicate with amazing actors in a professional way from my skills I have developed during my time here. Communication and confidence are extremely important, and I don't think I would have realized how important they are to me without ECTC helping me develop these skills in the first place.
Overall, ECTC has impacted me in countless ways. I genuinely would not have the amazing friendships I have today, the confidence I carry, or the skills I have learned if I had never started taking classes. ECTC has given me a place where I can express myself, learn from talented professionals, and grow into a more confident version of myself. What started as a fun hobby has helped me discover something I love doing and something that will allow me to continue growing tremendously as both a person and an actress. Next month, we will be performing Legally Blonde Jr. and I am so excited to show you all everything we have been working on as well as showing off what we have learned on stage!
Gratia (seen right) as Bea in Season 13’s Educational Production of Something Rotten Jr.