Leave the Critics to Us: Why You Should Be an Encouraging Voice for Creatives
Are you a theatre lover or performer? Do you have friends who are pursuing a career in the performing arts? If so, it’s time to consider the impact of your words and actions on their journey. As creatives, we face enough criticism and rejection on a daily basis. So why not be an encouraging voice and support those around us? Here’s why:
Creativity Thrives on Encouragement
When it comes to creativity, encouragement goes a long way. Positive reinforcement can help build confidence, inspire new ideas, and foster a sense of community. It’s easy to get caught up in the criticism of a performance, but it takes real effort to offer constructive feedback that encourages growth. As performers, we need to create a culture of support, where we lift each other up and help each other grow.
The Power of Words
As the saying goes, “words have power.” And in the world of performing arts, this is especially true. A negative comment or critique can stick with a performer long after the show is over. On the other hand, a kind word or a simple “good job” can make all the difference. It’s important to remember that performers are human, and their work is an extension of themselves. So be mindful of the impact your words can have on those around you.
The Role of Reviewers
We often turn to reviewers to gauge the success of a performance, but it’s important to remember that their job is to critique, not encourage. While their feedback can be helpful in some ways, it’s not always an accurate reflection of the performer’s skill or the impact of the performance. As performers and theatre lovers, we need to take it upon ourselves to offer encouragement and support to those around us.
How to Be an Encouraging Voice
So how can you be an encouraging voice for creatives? Start by offering specific feedback that highlights what you enjoyed about the performance. Reflect on the moments that made yourself or other audience members cheer and clap. Be genuine in your praise and focus on growth rather than tearing someone down. Most importantly, be present and show your support by attending performances, sharing their work on social media, and cheering them on from the audience.
Conclusion
We need to create a culture of support and encouragement in the performing arts community. As performers and theatre lovers, we have the power to lift each other up and help each other grow. So let’s leave the critics to their job and focus on being an encouraging voice for creatives. With our words and actions, we can inspire new ideas, build confidence, and create a community that thrives on support and encouragement.
