So, I just got back from the Cold Reading Series, and I had so much fun. I was actually asked to read!!! but I’ll get back to that in a second.

I felt a little bit nervous as I walked towards the Billy Bishop Legion.I was all alone and I didn’t know anyone at this event. Nevertheless, I plastered a smile onto my face, took a deep breath, and found my internal comfort zone as I walked up to the desk and asked for instructions: “How does this work? I’m new here.” That sort of thing. The people at the table were super accommodating. Some of the volunteers came to my school to speak recently, so there were some familiar faces at least. The girl at the table was one of them, and I felt instantly relaxed. While I was at the table I decided to sign up for this evolving script challenge. The idea behind the challenge, is that 3 writers collectively write a 9-15 page script without meeting. Someone starts it off with the first 3-5 pages, and those pages get sent to the next writer to continue the story, etc. A risky move on my part, maybe, but I’m feeling crazy today.

So, now I’m inside the building, and as promised I started introducing myself to people. I then found a seat and promptly introduced myself to a gentleman (a writer) who was sitting next to me. An actress then sat next to me, and of course I introduced myself to her too. We started into a conversation about training, Montreal, and the Broadway musical “Wicked.” I was already having a lot of fun, and the readings hadn’t even started yet. When they did, I was speechless. I hung on every word the actor’s spoke as they read these professional quality plays and screenplays. The talent was incredible, and it has inspired me to write and work on the screenplay I’m writing for school. Hilary Grist also performed as their musical guest, and I was floored by her performance. Not only was her music excellent, but her quirky personality was enchanting and endearing to watch. I don’t think my smile left my face all night.

Then it was my turn to go up to read. I felt that nervous feeling in the pit of my stomach, but I didn’t let it distract me. Instead, I breathed deeply, acknowledged that I was feeling nervous, and decided that this was okay. When I sat on the stage, my evil little voice whispered snide comments like “you don’t know what you’re doing,” “you can’t do this,” “you’re going to stumble over your words and it’s going to suck.” In response, I smiled took a deep breath and said to that little voice (in my mind, not out loud) “saying these things to myself are not going to make me any better. Instead, I’m going to remind you that you excel at cold reading, and that you have excellent impulses. Also this is fun, so have fun.” I let this new voice inject itself into my subconscious, then I took a big breath and I HAD FUN! Even though it was a small part, I still got some laughs. I got to play a 10 year old and a goth. How great is that? I didn’t even feel nervous. There were a few times when I caught myself holding my breath, and when that happened I just patiently and kindly reminded myself to breathe.

This was such a rewarding experience. I met so many great people, and now I can not wait until next Thursday. I think this is definitely going to be a weekly outing for me. Inspiring!