At the end of each one of our improvised shows, we gather together for notes. I recall doing this regularly back when I performed in musicals during high school, but that environment was different as we performed a “blocked” or planned show. CSz is different in the sense that we never really repeat anything. Yes, we do get the same suggestion from time to time, but the set of people even performing with that suggestion changes.
But we still do notes.
In recent months I’ve found myself becoming somewhat defensive during this process. While I may not always verbalize it, I want to show that my approach to the craft is indeed correct.
Today I recognized futility in my approach.
Notes isn’t about me–it’s really about the audience. The whole reason we do a show is to entertain an audience, to bring them some laughter and joy, and the people in CSz offering me a note or any of my castmates a note is doing so simply to bring more laughter and joy to that individual sitting in the crowd. Notes really is quite a gift.
Perhaps this is me trying to stretch this fun-size bar into a king-size one, but I think this perhaps is true within life to a degree. We often take the advice or input of others and try to place it on the side. We spend time defending, rather than growing.
I know over the past year, I’ve shared many phone conversations with my older brother, defending my opinion rather than listening to his at times. In reflection, all he was trying to do was bring some more laughter and joy into my world and into the world of some of those surrounding me. I’m not saying that any of us should sacrifice our beliefs or ideals, but when someone wants to provide some simple advice…
…take the note (or at least try to).