(3) Looking back...

 At the beginning of this project, and the beginning of Mrs Santos’ work, I lacked so much confidence in myself and doubted that I would have the stamina to carry out a week of strong performances, however I have learned that I am more resilient than I thought. I was not only able to complete the tour but perform well throughout and enjoy the experience. In this reflection I am using the Gibbs reflective cycle, (Gibbs' Reflective Cycle, 2020).

Each day we came across new challenges with moving the work into different stages but we were able to come together as a junior company and work in a professional manner to make the appropriate adjustments. Having a positive attitude helped this process feel less stressful therefore I could focus on my performance during the show. 

Revisiting the targets I had set for myself I feel that I didn’t have any issues with anxiety as I was feeling excited for each show, however I struggled with my energy in the mornings as I struggled with sleep. This is something that my body would adjust to if the tour was longer, however, I feel I managed this well by eating balanced meals, keeping my blood sugar level and resting at the appropriate times. Luckily the adrenaline gave me a boost in the evening however I was conscious to focus this energy onto the stage and pace myself wisely.

Performance footage of Motum Perpetuum at Harlequin Theatre, Redhill

What I feel went best during the performances was how we worked together as a corps de ballet. Watching the footage I can see how we developed a sense of unity and I feel that we discovered how to move as one, a very important quality to carry forward into the industry. I also am very pleased that we were able to carry out the week without having to use any covers or make changes as everyone was able to dance. It was beneficial to me that I prepared my meals ahead of time and had a plan in place, therefore I had no issues with injury. I also learnt to remain focused and contained in my core to avoid losing my focus or balance when others near me may have which ultimately makes it less eye catching to the audience and helps disguise mistakes.

I will continue to prepare my body and my mind this way when I am a professional dancer as it has led to a successful tour, reviewing material, rest and recovering, and preparation of meals and warm up plans ahead of time means that what could be a stressful experience, instead runs smoothly and allows space for enjoyment. Above anything, I would like to take joy into the industry therefore I will prepare myself well so that I can absorb the uplifting experience of dancing on stage. I will also continue to look after my body to avoid injury and have a long and healthy career.

BTUK2 company photo at BTUK School and Company studios

BTUK2, 2022. Motum Perpetuum - Gwenaelle Poline Santos - BTUK2 video 2. [video] Available at: <https://youtu.be/ay5dmxoHcg0> [Accessed 26 April 2022].
The University of Edinburgh. 2020. Gibbs' Reflective Cycle. [online] Available at: <https://www.ed.ac.uk/reflection/reflectors-toolkit/reflecting-on-experience/gibbs-reflective-cycle> [Accessed 7 June 2022].