“The pandemic has seen the start of lots of new artistic companies – using the opportunities afforded by the shutdown – namely virtual means of collaboration and production – to start new ventures that are continuing into more traditional projects. If you’re interested in starting a company here are some top tips.”

“In the theatre, we have the ability to create the world we want to see. Yet so many companies want to wallow in sadness or stereotypes about sex work.”

“To see everyone turn to the creative arts to get them through quarantine and then turn around and suggest artists just find another line of work, is insulting beyond words.”

“In recent years, the face of dancewear started changing. With our communities expanding across the world it’s now possible to access independently made dancewear around the globe. Now we’re not limited to the few items in our local dance shop. We can customize, design, and discover dancewear that’s not only a perfect fit but through which we can express ourselves and support independent craftsmen.

“I think we need to pause and talk about where we stand with the current process of auditioning, taking into account the perspectives of both sides of the table. Because, the truth is, performers are really struggling.”

“I feel like I am being left behind while my community is propelling itself forward into something else; that they are able to adapt and I can’t.”

“Artists often have a crazy amount of commitments. It can be difficult to set aside time for our own health and well-being. But here’s the conclusion it’s taken me a long time to arrive at: we deserve it. “

“Is yoga a way for us to tone up or lose weight to fit the “Broadway body” bill? Is it a way to increase our flexibility, so we can get the next dance solo? Perhaps we have not been honoring yoga properly and if we did, how would that change the theatre industry at large?”

“I reject the notion that enjoying theatre as a hobby is inherently less meaningful than pursuing it as a career.”

“Let’s be absolutely clear, working in the theatre industry, or indeed in any part of the entertainment industry, is a real job.”

“This pandemic took a HUGE toll on EVERYONE in the arts, but that doesn't mean your worth has been diminished because of it.”

“I find some over-reaching efforts to demand neutrality in performers to be incredibly hypocritical.”

“While we are masters at adapting, we don’t really know what we are adapting to right now. Some of us are considering completely changing careers. We’re trying to figure it out. We need to be reassured that we are loved and that those important to us believe in us, no matter what we decide to do.”

"Our image of artists is that they scrape up just enough to get by. They do not live -- they simply survive."

“We are moving ahead and pushing through the barriers as best we can in terms of theatre getting back on track, but we’re not completely there yet. Take this time to pursue your interests until we can all enjoy theatre together as the incredible community that we are.”

“It’s okay if you aren’t inspired right now. It’s okay to step away and take some time to heal, or even just to survive. Your passion isn’t gone forever. Your desire to create will come back.”

“The very public promises of change and solidarity that many arts and educational institutions touted this summer following the June Black Lives Matter protests were received by many BIPOC artists with skepticism considering the extraordinarily presentational yet minimally impactful changes these promises often bring.”

The very first thing to understand about “proving yourself”, is that YOU need to be the first person you convince. You need to develop your abilities hand-in-hand with your confidence to the point where you feel pride in what you can do. Once you reach that point, you can then work on impressing other people.

Viral does not mean “good” and not-viral does not mean “bad”.

“Don’t be afraid to include what makes you unique! Resist the urge to “conform” your materials and lean into highlighting what you’re proud of, including hobbies, side hustles, community involvement, and more! This will help you stand out - which is ALWAYS the right move.”