Brave Women & Courageous Actresses

On New Year's eve, two sad news, reinforce my urge to send a plea to you my friends, actors and performers... 
Love Thyself!
French Actress/model Isabelle Caro passes away after a long battle with anorexia and an extraordinarily courageous campaign to help other women an models fight the disease.

and lead actress of Broadway musical Spider-Man quits because of a head injury she received from performing the show many dangerous stunts... she choses to quit a career-making role, instead of risking her life.. that is a real act of courage..
These are two examples of how deadly show business pressure can become. These women showed unparallel courage to confront the big machine of showbiz. Isabelle Caro, unfortunately lost her battle. but found the strength to model for an awareness campaign on Anorexia before she died.
May their stories inspire you to honor yourself this coming year!
  
Emmanuelle Chaulet
Artists' Coach, Energy Awareness Counselor 
 

ENERGIZE™ : the other way

Happy New Year!

This time of year is my favorite when we do plans for the future, make resolutions and set the next course of our ship to sail the uncharted territories of our mission exploration….

As performers, it also means getting ready for these Pilot seasons, starting a new semester, or simply sharpening skills and talent. And there is ALWAYS something to learn. Artists are well aware that they should be in constant exploration of their craft and in the pursuit of the highest creative expression… But why not add:  also in the pursuit of happiness?

Is there really a curse, which requires artists to suffer for their art? Or can you be a happy, yet profoundly creative artist? We have all seen, read, heard about the myth of the starving artist who is constantly in pain to pull out his next creation, but is it really what it takes? Do you have to wring your guts to do good work? Isn’t there another way?

I deeply believe there is. A way where the path is exhilarating, yet safe, where the road wanders in amazing landscapes, but where you always remember where you go, and where you come from. A way where Balance is supporting Creativity.

I have researched for years this other way, and am privileged to share with you my discoveries. Using the awareness of Energy, you can keep your instrument grounded, balanced, and energized, and yet tap into the other vibrations of the character world and of the play, without risking getting lost in them, but always finding your way home…

ENERGIZE™ is this method, and I invite you to not only read it in the book A BALANCING ACT, but to also try it in sessions and workshops. Contact me for an individual distance or in person session.

Let me also know if your school, or University is ready to explore this new technique.

I’ll be very happy to transport to you!

Live Long and Prosper,

Emmanuelle Chaulet

Artists' coach, Energy Awareness Counselor, CRPL3

Author, Speaker, International Film Actress

Workshop Leader
 

Now booking for January, February and May 2011

Individual Sessions, Workshop Modules for organizations and universities

There is still time! Meaningful Holiday Gifts for Artists' Souls

There is still time to get that special gift! OFFER VALID UNTIL DEC 20, 2011!

The book (signed and personalized):
A BALANCING ACT: A book to reclaim the Highest Artist Within
This is a meaningful gift for the special artists in your life!
A book that can change the way they'll look at their craft and at themselves, teaching them new tools to care for their instrument, boosting their confidence, self-esteem and stage presence.

Holiday Special:  All books ordered via STARLIGHT ACTING BOOKS before December 20 will be signed by the author (free of charge).
 (Note: Signature is NOT available on books ordered with FULFILLMENT BY AMAZON)  To order A BALANCING ACT ($24.95) click on this link:
http://www.starlightactingbooks.starlightacting.org/store.html

GIVE THE GIFT OF AN ENERGIZE™ SESSION: (Student rate for all until January 15: use promotional code " X2011" on the comments lines)
Gift Certificates for phone or in-person sessions with Emmanuelle Chaulet

ENERGIZE™ sessions clarify the mind and spirit, relieve stress, increase stage presence, and help with decision-making, creativity and empowerment. Special FIND YOUR STAR POWER session for young professional musicians and actors.
Purchase the session you'd like on line, and then Email me the name and address of the person you want to gift. I'll send you a lovely gift certificate card (on paper or electronically, it's your choice). 90 minutes ENERGIZE™ sessions: $70
Talent management coaching sessions: $50

http://www.emmanuellechaulet.com/services.html

HOLD ON LOG:
    USE THE PROMOTIONAL CODE:  'FREC9' to get a $20 discount.
Insert it in the Coupon code field discount box at check out.

A fabulous tool to manage your performing career, from audition to fittings. A perfect gift for a working performing artist.
Step up to the professional business of show business use Holdon Log, Performer track. Manage your auditions, contacts, call backs, rehearsal, fittings, mileage, shooting, expenses, income, classes and workshops and more ...Online, anywhere.


http://www.emmanuellechaulet.com/catalog.html


FMI http://www.emmanuellechaulet.com


Best wishes for a prosperous and Happy New Year!

Best Wishes for the Holidays!

Now is a time for caring, loving and being grateful… exactly the feelings we need to lower our stress level! So, do not let yourself get pressured down by all the expectations that our commercial culture has put around the holidays. Rather, gently but firmly, reject these expectations, to instead focus on the feelings of care, appreciation, love and gratitude. People around you will too, feel relieved that you do not play the “expectation game.” Kindly express and offer around you genuine and truthful care instead. The frugal economy climate is a great reason to downsize material gifts and focus on spiritual and meaningful gifts. You’d be surprised to see how many sighs of relief will result from this shift in perspective!

And take also the time to care for YOU! As we enter our final phase before the winter solstice in a few weeks, it is now time to introspect, reflect, recharge, refill and make plans for the New Year. How wonderful and fun is it to be doing this daydreaming, and future mapping of our lives! Let’s not put unrealistic expectations on ourselves either, with New Year resolutions that are impossible to keep. But instead, meditate and journal your thoughts. Think about where you are now, where you want to go next, and how to appreciate the journey ahead, keeping in sight that the PRESENT is the GIFT.

Take great care, and best wishes,

Emmanuelle

Emmanuelle Chaulet

Starlight Acting Institute, Director

Energy Awareness Counselor, CRPL3

Artists’ coach

 IN THIS NEWS LETTER:

MEANINGFUL GIFTS FOR ACTORS AND ARTISTS IN YOUR LIFE:

A BALANCING ACT: A book to reclaim the Highest Artist Within

This is a meaningful gift for the special artists in your life!

A book that can change the way they’ll look at their craft and at themselves, teaching them new tools to care for their instrument, boosting their confidence, self-esteem and stage presence.

Holiday Special:  All books ordered via STARLIGHT ACTING BOOKS before December 17 will be signed by the author (free of charge).

 (Signature NOT available on books with FULFILLMENT BY AMAZON) 

To order A BALANCING ACT ($24.95) click on this link:

http://www.starlightactingbooks.starlightacting.org/store.html

 GIVE THE GIFT OF AN ENERGIZE™ SESSION:

Gift Certificates for phone or in-person sessions with Emmanuelle Chaulet.

ENERGIZE™ sessions clarify the mind and spirit, relieve stress, increase stage presence, and help with decision-making, creativity and empowerment. Special FIND YOUR STAR POWER session for young professional musicians and actors.

Purchase the session you’d like on line, and then Email me the name and address of the person you want to gift. I’ll send you a lovely gift certificate card (on paper or electronically, it’s your choice). 90 minutes sessions starts at $70 for students.

http://www.starlightacting.org/individualsessions/individualsessions.html

AN ENERGIZING WEEK AT VCU:

The first week of November, I was honored to be invited as Guest Artist to teach 8 master-classes at Virginia Commonwealth University Theatre Department, in Richmond, VA and was thrilled to meet so many talented, committed and mature students. Clearly the ENERGIZE™ work spoke to them and I felt truly excited to be able to share my discoveries with this group.

I presented the modules: “ENERGIZE™ a holistic approach to acting (overview),” “Pre-Performance Preparation,” “Post-Performance Blues,” “Energy Anatomy,” and discussed elements of “The Actor Spiritual Purpose,” as well as some of the “Character Vibration and Blueprint.”

I am grateful to my dear friend and colleague Josh Chenard, to have hosted and organized this series of workshops. I hope we will soon present this kind of ENERGIZING week to other schools. Josh is a certified Michael Chekhov Technique teacher, and offers Archetypes workshops. 

Contact me for more information or to bring us to your school.

energize@starlightacting.org

http://www.starlightacting.org/WorkshopModules/WorkshopModules.html

Institute of HeartMath Feeds Food for Thought with Science of Thanksgiving Gratitude

Institute of HeartMath Feeds Food for Thought with Science of Thanksgiving Gratitude

To read at Thanksgiving time... why it works to focus on feelings of appreciation and gratitude to re-balance your body, mind, spirit and emotions....
In these holiday frenzy times, when you – the performers– are the most busy with shows and concerts, learn to take a few pauses, breathe deeply, appreciate something simple, perhaps just the fact you are doing what you love, to be able to recharge your energy and fly higher....

I am grateful to share what I have learned with so many talented people,

Emmanuelle Chaulet
Acting coach, Energy Awareness counselor

An ENERGIZING week at VCU theatre department

I just spent a truly energizing week in Richmond with the students of Virginia Commonwealth University.
Invited to teach master classes in ENERGIZE for 5 fun-filled days, I want to thank everyone at VCU for such a warm welcome, and a truly committed, focused, and high energy vibration week!

In particular I want to thank my dear friend and colleague Josh Chenard, who has not only been a  most gracious host, but also an inspiration. Congratulations on ANIMAL FARM, the show which opened last night and which he directed. An inspiring, thought provoking moment of theatre!
Kudos to all the actors who showed a feeling of ease on stilts and with masks..

A Bientôt!!

Emmanuelle Chaulet

The Solitude of the Winner - Part II

A Letter from Monique van der Werff, actress

As a reader of your book and newsletters I would love to thank you for another inspiring column. I have also read 'The Winner stands alone' (as I am a big fan of Paulo Coelho). Thanks for reminding people that fame is empty.

I would like to share my experience on this topic with you, as an example, because it exactly underlines what you were saying.

I have been able to experience it: fame, glory, signing autographs, fans going crazy etc, for a few years. I'm a Dutch actress and a few years ago I was in a children series, which accidentally became the most famous of our country then. It was on TV, primetime, daily, plus we made three movies abroad. But I was not happy. I've always been more of a theater person. I like to take a lot of time rehearsing, searching for the depth of a part and deeply connecting with my fellow-actors.

So, after two years I decided to go back to that. I went to New York to study at Stella Adler's Studio of Acting. When I came back, a lot of people would comment: 'Your colleague from the series is now presenting 'Holland's got talent', that could have been you'. I am so glad it is not me. I know she is really happy doing it, because this was her dream, but is was not MY dream. I really have a hard time getting people to understand that. They think I failed, and 'did not make it'. Even family says worried: 'I haven't seen you on TV for a while, are you okay?' Someone who's had the fame and fortune and now 'lost' it must be sick, sad and miserable...the opposite of which is true: I felt much more like that when I was 'famous' (in the Netherlands, I mean we're talking only 16 million people here...;-)) and couldn't walk the streets without being recognized and screamed at all the time. All this energy coming my way, I just couldn't handle it. And how was I supposed to do my job of observing people, if they were staring at me all the time? But if you say that, as an actor, a lot of people just find that you are being 'ungrateful' or they don't believe you don't crave for fame anymore and think that you are jealous of the ones that 'did make it'.

On TV people see the glitter & glamour, the smiling faces, so they think fame is related to a lot of other things, like happiness. It is not.
I try my best, in interviews etc., to discuss this topic, and letting my own view out on it. In one of the glossies here I literary said: 'Fame is empty'. People do not want to hear this message, they'd rather stay indulged on the illusion.

To complete my story, I have to tell you that (after acting in about ten plays by other people, feeling a lot of satisfaction), I have gained the rights from Paulo Coelho to adapt his beautiful book 'Veronika decides to die' for the Dutch theater. It is my dream come true, to make my own theater plays. I am producing and writing it myself, and (of course) I play the part of Veronika. The premier is October 9th, and I couldn't have been happier, working on this terrific material.
It's the work itself that is so fulfilling. It's working with all these magnificent artists (actors, directors, costume designers, art directors etc.) that makes it so worthwhile.
I am very happy to be able to tell that from my own experience now.

I hope my story was of use to you. Please keep on spreading your message of love and joy. In this world, especially the acting world, we get so many other messages, that this cannot be heard enough!







Monique van der Werff (1982) is a Dutch actress. She played the lead in several feature films (Loverboy, Zoop in India, Honeyz) and TV series such as Onderweg naar Morgen (based on Ryan’s Hope), Alex FM and the award-winning children’s series Zoop. Monique has her own statue in the Amsterdam Madame Tussauds Museum. She acted in ten theater plays for different companies (among others: Het Nationale Toneel, Urban Myth and MC). Monique is the co-owner and artistic director of the White Rabbit Theater Foundation, which is currently working on the Dutch theater adaptation of Paulo Coelho’s novel "Veronika decides to die." Paulo Coelho gave her permission to produce the play, write the adaptation and play the part of Veronika. Premiere: October 9th 2010 in De Toneelschuur in Haarlem (The Netherlands), national tour ‘till the end of January 2011. For more information and playlist: www.veronikabesluittesterven.nl

The Solitude of the Winner

Summer is entering its August lingering and relaxing phase, when we know it will be over soon and we feverishly try to grab the last sun rays. Here in Maine we know it is the last frontier before winter… (Well, almost: I love the October colors too! But there is a old saying that goes; ‘In Maine there are two seasons: July and winter”)

This July I was lucky to be able to read a lot and reflect on my path, purpose, and life by discovering incredible books and articles. I’ll share with you an amazing one:

Paulo Coelho’s new book:  The Winner Stands Alone about the ruthless world of Cannes Film Festival

I have been at Cannes Film Festival several times. I even walked the red carpet for a film with Claire Denis, Chocolat. Everything Paulo Coelho says about the Cannes festival and the film business is true. It is so exactly what I once lived through, he could have written about my own story. In this book, he uncovers the most dangerous, destructive and insidious threat an actor can face in the business: the desire to be famous.

 Glamour, and fame are the two most vicious demons an actor battles with. I would defy any aspiring actor to say that wanting to be famous never crossed his or her mind. Yet, if you work for that purpose, you will quickly find that it is empty. You will fight years to attain a goal that forever escapes you. It will never be enough. It’s an addiction. If you get wide coverage on your new film, you’ll want the cover of Vogue; you got invited to the Academy Awards? You’ll want a nomination. You got nominated? You’ll want an Oscar. You got an Oscar? You’ll want two, plus the Golden Globe. And when you finally reach what you think is the top, you’ll only find solitude and boredom.

Your purpose as an actor should be so much deeper than fame and glory. It should be a message of love and truth you want to give the world. Whether you choose to show what lack of love can lead to in certain roles, or what love can conquer in others, there should always be a higher purpose in your work. The gift of laughter with a comedy can help a depressed person. A film with a cause can move public opinion and lead to a change of policies. A war movie can denounce horror. Theatre has the same potential depth and you will even have more contact with your public. You don’t have a role? Take your talent to a retirement home or a low-income suburb school. The looks of awe on your audience faces will reward you more than many B-movie contracts.

You, as a performer, have tremendous power to express purpose through your work and change the consciousness of the world. You are the Living Work of Art and the one bringing in the energy that is needed now. Don’t forget that in your next audition. You are not there to become a star, but to shine like one, with the light of God’s will.

Art will save the world.

- Emmanuelle Chaulet, CRPL3 acting coach, energy awareness counselor, author A Balancing Act
http://www.emmanuellechaulet.com

Stage of Wellness: Tech Week Survival Secrets by Patti McCabe

Another wonderful resource by our guest contributor Patti McCabe!
Stage of Wellness presents:Tech Week Survival Secrets

I am honored to have had the opportunity to begin to share nutrition and wellness information with all of you here.  And I am truly excited about some new approaches I am taking to ensure that I am serving you, the performing arts community, in the best way possible.  To that end, I am proud to announce the launch of a new name for my Health Coaching practice – Stage of Wellness.

I truly believe that a taking a journey into wellness is like performing on your own personal stage.  Whether on stage or off, we all play a unique and important role in this industry.  And in that role you have the opportunity to grow, change, overcome challenges, and celebrate successes.  This is the same opportunity that performing on your stage of wellness offers you.  The difference on this stage, however, is that this particular role must reside within you for a lifetime, rather than for just the duration of a particular production.

I am constantly awed by the support systems that exist in the performing arts community.  And so just like an actor needs a director or a director needs a stage manager, I hope that I can be your support system whenever you need my help to achieve the energy you need to live the life you love!

When I am thinking about how I can best be a resource for you, I often consider what my own greatest challenges have been as a Stage Manager.  Can you guess the first words which come to mind? 

Tech Week! 

I have to say that there is nothing more exhilarating for me than seeing a production through this process.  The culmination of all of the hard work around the rehearsal process, and the dedication focused towards delivering the absolute best production to an audience.  There is nothing more satisfying.  There is also nothing more stressful and exhausting.  I have no doubt you can relate! 

This is why I want you to have my brand new report:  The Top 5 Secrets to Surviving Tech Week…without the crash and burn!   It is available right now for free on my new website.  I invite all of you to join me there and grab your copy today:  www.techweeksurvivalsecrets.com

I look forward to being in touch again soon with more tips and resources for you.  In the meantime, don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions, feedback, or need support!


Patti McCabe is a Certified Holistic Health Coach whose mission is to help the performing arts community learn how to achieve the energy they need to live the lives they love!  She received her training at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York City and is accredited through the American Association of Drugless Practitioners.  She leads workshops on health and nutrition, and offers both individual and group counseling services in person and by phone.  Learn more at www.techweeksurvivalsecrets.com.

Avoiding BURNOUT in Summerstock

 Rotating three or four shows per week, sometimes playing in two shows per day, 6 days a week is a usual schedule in summer stock theatre. It can be cruelly demanding and stress building to the point of exhaustion.
How do you avoid burnout when the schedule barely allows you to sleep?

Here are simple tricks that can make up for the lack of sleep and that will truly diminish your stress level.

-First rule: eat well:
Drink plenty of water and feed your body with good fuel. No junk food allowed!
You want to give yourself all the proteins your body craves and plenty of good nutrients to replenish and energize yourself
See Patti McCabe's column and blog for that.

- Second rule: ease lack of sleep by a short relaxation before bed:
 In 15 minutes of deep meditative relaxation you can replenish your body of the missing sleep.
Lie down in a quiet space, in silence or with relaxing music.  Concentrate on your breathing. Take deep cleansing breaths. Start by relaxing the top of your head, inhaling clearing energy and exhaling stress you want to release. Gently breathe in and out, and move down to your forehead, then your eyes, eyelids, throat, lips, and neck. Then move to your shoulders and your chest area.

When focusing on your heart, think about a place, a pet or a person that you feel grateful for. Feelings of gratitude have an immediate effect on your nervous system. When you feel grateful your body releases hormones that calm your nerves, and your heart beat slows down. The coherence of your heart beat improves. your immune system strengthens. (FMI  about heart coherence and scientific research, check Heartmath.org).

Then move to your solar plexus, and your lower abdomen. Finish by going down your legs, and the sole of your feet. imagine stress leaving from the sole of your feet, dissipating and transmuting in space.
When your attention wanders, gently bring it back to your breath and body.

Finally, imagine a bubble of colors surrounding you. You are bathing in it. Perceive it is a cocoon that can recharge and regenerate your cells. Feel it, sense it, and absorb its benefits for as long as you want.

Finally, open your eyes. You should feel refreshed and regenerated.

Emmanuelle Chaulet
Energy Awareness Counselor, acting coach
Author, A BALANCING ACT

To Boot or Not to Boot? That is the question

So you think a BOOT CAMP will develop your creativity, sensitivity, sensory awareness and subtle energy presence on stage?

I happen to think that actors need the exact opposite: gentle, positive, relaxing, nurturing of your instrument; and a mind, body, spirit connection. You ARE after all, the work of art.
So, let's say you are a musician; would you send your Steinway or Stradivarius to a boot camp for tuning?  Would you want the tuner of your instrument to bang on the keys violently or to use force when repairing your delicate instrument? Of course not! You'd want them to take good care of it and be gentle, respectlful, loving so they tune it to its highest potential. It's time to do the same with your instrument-self. 

Use self-love, self-appreciation, and self-esteem development techniques...Tune and clear your body and mind gently, lovingly. Use  yoga, stretching and visualizations and energy relaxation exercises. Enfold your emotional range with safety and stress relief techniques. Learn the anatomy of your emotional and energy system to better manage the highs and the lows.  Discover ways to recuperate your strength your energy and your power. Reclaim your creative self, reclaim your Artist within. 

In order to do this your approach must be loving, caring, and appreciative. You must be indulgent and understanding. You must listen to your selves, to the voices within. You need to take the time and allow the space for your inner artist to enfold his wings.

You need to listen within.

Each of you, artist, is unique, precious and fragile too. Like flowers, sunsets or rainbows, you illuminate when you perform, yet your works of art are always changing and ephemeral.

 Your training must take this into consideration. You are a living work of art.

FMI about how to use these self-development techniques on your own, read my book A BALANCING ACT and visit http://www.starlightacting.org
or contact me.

Emmanuelle Chaulet, acting coach

Manage your Talent! Bring your career to the next level of success

   

Dear Friends,

On Friday, I was teaching a couple of workshops titled "YOU WANT TO BE A STAR; NOW WHAT?"  at the New England Drama Festival and talked about tips to promote and manage yourself as an actor in New England.  I thought I should share them with you all:

• THE FIRST TIP is PROMOTE YOURSELF ONLINE:

Professional actors know this too well:  even though you are an artist, you must promote yourself as a business. Your business cards are of course, headshots and resumes, but the twentieth century way to marketing and promotion is through the web and social networks.
It's efficient, it's free, it's easy, fun, time consuming, but you can do it in your PJ with a hot cup of tea or coffee.. ;=) and it is the way to go!

So, which networks are good for actors? The answer is MANY. Most of them are free, except as noted.

-Facebook of course (free): but only if you use it PROFESSIONALLY and not to post fun pictures of yourself going wild at parties...it could backfire the day you become well known, or simply if the director of this fantastic show you auditioned for, ends up looking at your Facebook profile and reviews its first impression of you when he sees that picture... check this very interesting article about FACEBOOK BEHAVIOR GOING BAD..

When Facebook Behavior Goes Bad

-Actors groups on Facebook (free);  there are dozens...some announce castings and auditions, or workshops, others offer advice.

    Note: ANPACT: the Association for the New Paradigm in Acting and Creative Techniques which I co-founded, offers workshop announcements about these techniques. http://www.anpact.org/

-Lindedin and its actors groups (free) (Actor's Network, Actors and Casting Directors, ANPACT etc..) www.linkedin.com

-Backstage: http://casting.backstage.com/
THE national source for casting and jobs. You can subscribe for a fee, but it is THE source of info.

-Backstage Maine (free): http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BackStage-Maine/

-Between Gigs (free): postings of auditions and castings in New England: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BetweenGigsCasting/

-NEW ENGLAND ACTORS (free for now) this is a fantastic network where you can post a profile with pictures and resume (needs to be absolutely PROFESSIONAL or it will be deleted) http://neactor.ning.com/

-THEATRE FACE (free): another network with more tech people: http://www.theatreface.com/

-Stage Source Boston,  a membership organization which has a database of actors: http://www.stagesource.org/

There are many, many more...

• Next tip is  GET ORGANIZED!

If you submit  only two or three pictures/resume a day either by regular mail or electronically, to two or three projects, you will soon get overwhelmed if you do not keep track of the responses, call backs, phone conversations with the assistants, names of the secretaries etc...
The old fashion way to keep track is to do a 'submission sheet' for each project, on which you write all the info: title of project, names of directors, assistants, tel, emails, websites, what they said, what the audition was about, etc; and have a submission binder.

However,  if you want keep in sync with your time, you should do it electronically, anywhere, on your Iphone, computer or blackberry...
That's when you invest in PERFORMER TRACK  an amazing tool for professional actors to track their business, and jobs, even their finances for tax credit purposes... It is web based, can be accessed anywhere and it only costs  $9.95 a month. It is one of the best investments you'll make to go to the next level of professionalism.
http://www.performertrack.com/
YOU CAN USE THE PROMOTIONAL CODE:  'FREC9' to get a $20 discount.
Insert it in the Coupon code field discount box at check out.


Next week we'll talk about Preparing for Auditions and Audition behavior.

This is just the first of a series of articles called "Manage your Talent"
I invite you to contact me personally, for more tips, or individualized coaching (in person or by phone).
I am taking on new talents, emerging talents, or professional performers who simply want to move their career up to a next level.

Talent Management Coaching is by the hour ($50 for students/$65 professionals) or by percentage with a Talent Management contract.

FMI: http://www.emmanuellechaulet.com/services.html
info@emmanuellechaulet.com

ALSO I will teach a class on this topic (The Business of Acting) in the spring of 2011 at the University of Southern Maine. Stay tuned...

and as always, I offer individual ENERGIZE sessions to clear your instrument to the next level of creative potential and stage presence:
http://www.starlightacting.org/IndividualSessions/IndividualSessions.html 



Take great care of your beautiful Artist Selves,

Emmanuelle Chaulet

Spring is for Water; Hydrate for Health, by Patti McCabe

Our monthly column from our Certified Holistic Health Counselor and nutritionist, and theatre stage manager extraordinaire:

As a Stage Manager, I always make sure there is plenty of fresh water in the rehearsal room and backstage for performances.  But I’m not surprised to find that I’m more often thinking about refilling the supply at the coffee station!

Most of us are aware of the importance of drinking enough water. Getting our daily dose of water helps our organs perform their functions, keeps our skin clear and hydrated, and allows physical action in our bodies to flow smoothly. Even with this knowledge, it can still be challenging to drink all the water our bodies deserve daily. In the warmer months, when we tend to play hard, sweat and spend prolonged time in the sun, drinking plenty of water is critical. Those who are not drinking enough may experience poor digestion, sluggish thinking, skin breakouts, headaches, bad breath and general fatigue. 

To start your day right, set a large glass of water by your bed each night and drink it when you wake up. Drinking water first thing in the morning pulls out toxins from the previous day and freshens your system for the day ahead. Keep a bottle of water accessible throughout the day, whether you are on the go or at a desk. Having a bottle of water close by will remind you to take a sip when thirsty. The first sip will usually let you know how much more water you need. A sip or two may be enough, or you may need a big glass. If you drink most of your daily water before early evening, you most likely will not be thirsty before bed. This is good, because drinking before bed and then waking to use the bathroom disturbs your peaceful night’s sleep.

Many people are also surprised to learn that dehydration can be a main cause of sugar cravings.  Sometimes we think we are hungry when what our bodies really need is water.  So the next time you find yourself reaching for that candy bar (especially when you know you don’t want it but think you need it), try drinking a glass of water first.  Not only will you be allowing yourself a moment to become more conscious of your craving, but you may just find that you are better able to satisfy what your body truly needs. 

What about quality? Some people like bottled water, while others prefer filtered water. The key is to like the taste of the water you are drinking, and the water should agree with your body. If the taste of plain water is unappealing, experiment to see how you can make it tasty and drinkable. Try adding a few mint leaves, a wedge of lemon, a sprig of parsley, slices of cucumber, a twist of lime or a squeeze of orange to make water more tempting, or to jazz up your routine. Also, drinking tea or juice and eating raw fruits and vegetables contribute to the hydration process.

As the sun starts to warm up, set the stage now for a more hydrated you.  Try some of these tips to add more water into your daily routine, and feel your health and energy levels soar into the coming season!

Patti McCabe is a Certified Holistic Health Counselor who specializes in helping the performing arts community get more out of their lives by getting more out of their food.  She received her training at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York City and is accredited through the American Association of Drugless Practitioners.  She leads workshops on health and nutrition, and offers both individual and group counseling services in person and by phone.  More information at www.pattimccabe.com and http://pattimccabe.wordpress.com

Spring Upward! Raise Your Vibration

Dear Friends,

Spring is here!
We finally are able to come out of hiding and expand, leaving behind the dust and grit of winter..
Crocuses and daffodils are springing out of the ground, Tentative rays of sunshine warm our faces.
Spring means, at the same time leaping forward or upward and also 'a source of water.' Water is the flow, the breath, Life, Light. Water reflects emotions and thoughts as Dr. Emoto showed us in "Messages From Water"
Spring is the renewal, the detoxing of our deep cells, of our thoughts and of our souls.

Springing upward also means raising our vibration.
Many people wonder how to raise their vibrations.
It is a very subtle change in the energy field, yet it is unmistakable. It is the feeling of the diver going down to the bottom of the pool to then kick back up to the surface with a slight push. It is the sensation of the athlete jumping high over an obstacle, the emotion of the singer reaching the high note, or the sensation of accomplishment given by the perfect movement of the dancer.

Raising your vibration is the feeling of being "in the zone," with perfect timing, high creativity, hyper awareness, great intuition and pure joy.
But, you'll ask: How do you get that sensation systematically? Practice, practice, practice!

Where do you start?

-First notice: Next time your vibration is naturally high, try to make a note of what it feels like; observe yourself, note what brought you there. Perhaps it is a walk on the beach or a hike up a mountain. When you are in that perfect state, everything flows naturally, easily, and your judgment is sharp, accurate, your energy is high and your joy is intense. But it is a hard thing to remember as memory does not span vibration. However, the more aware you are, the better your body will be able to recall that sensation later.

-Then, repeat:  When your vibration is high, your whole energy system is working perfectly. The energy system is like a pipe line system. If the flow of energy is blocked somewhere, you will feel it everywhere. The same way that if in your house the plumbing is clogged in the kitchen, it will sometimes overflow in the bathroom as well. Energy clearing is done though meditation, focused intention on the clearing of the chakras and aura, and with a solid foundation of self-love.

For energy to flow freely everywhere, the whole system must be clear. It means, that your whole body must be clear. Therefore, the 4 pillars of health, nutrition, sleep, physical activity, and energy clearing, all work in unison, like the cords of a guitar, need to all be in tune for the final accord to be harmonious.
This is why a high vibration is at the same time the result of good sleep,  good nutrition, physical activity and regular energy clearing.

Practice practice practice, it will become easier as time goes on..

So spring forward to a high vibration,
Happiness and radiance are awaiting.
Emmanuelle Chaulet,



Emmanuelle Chaulet
Starlight Acting Institute, director

Energize! a holistic approach to acting
http://www.starlightacting.org



ONGOING:

-INDIVIDUAL ENERGY CLEARING/COACHING SESSIONS WITH EMMANUELLE CHAULET
by phone or in person, by appointment at Holistic Pathways, Gorham Village, Maine.
90 minutes sessions - student rates.
FMI:
http://www.starlightacting.org/IndividualSessions/IndividualSessions.html


-WEEKEND RETREATS IN MAY & JUNE:
EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION ENDS APRIL 1
Performers: SPRING FORWARD! 

Going beyond where Michael Chekhov left off, A TRANSFORMATIVE EVENT IN YOUR PERFORMANCE CAREER.

Solo or Duo Weekend Retreats on the week-end of your choice A LA CARTE between May 15 and June 15 in Gorham village, Maine:

GET READY FOR SUMMER STOCK

UNLEASH YOUR STAR POWER 

Learn to charge up on energy, to radiate and expand your stage presence, to balance and clear your system for better performance. Renew, Recharge, Recover, Radiate...

Two days personalized for YOU and filled with: Energy Awareness for performers, energy clearing and private coaching with Emmanuelle Chaulet + massage, zumba, yoga, meditation, and retreat time to get you ready to hit the stage....

In addition, receive a copy of the unique book A BALANCING ACT, by Emmanuelle Chaulet and a personalized plan for your life and career.

A UNIQUE RETREAT FOR UNIQUE ARTISTS...

REGISTER BEFORE APRIL 1:

FMI : http://www.starlightacting.org/Retreats/Retreats.html

energize@starlightacting.org

Tuition: $445 students ($495 regular)
Rate increase of $25  after April 1.

Jeremy RENNER Academy Award Nominee for BEST ACTOR talks about Performance Stress

Interviewed by Terry Gross on Fresh Air yesterday: listen to the whole interview here

GROSS: Now, when you were interviewed on ALL THINGS CONSIDERED, you mentioned that you had a few breakdown moments, but you had them privately in your hotel room. What caused them?

Mr. RENNER: Well, the strain - the physical strain was a first. And then it went to a mental strain, spiritual strain, in the sense of, you know, coming from California and having no experiences in the Middle East, and then it being during Ramadan, and just all - it was compiled, a thousand things compiled. And I just tried to hold it together and hold it together and hold it together. And then every once in a while, I have to go home with a bottle of wine and fully decompress. And sometimes, I just came out in a mental breakdown in a lot of ways.

Getting up there… Stage Confidence, Stage Presence

Before an audition or a performance do you think about yourself in a positive light, or do you think that you are not right for the part? Do you doubt yourself, or are you over-confident? Do you think about what THEY want, what THEY will think, what THEY will expect? (THEY, being the casting directors, the audience, the directors, the reviewers…)
Do you focus your energy on everything you need to be and become for THEM? (the look, the body language, the voice, the talk, etc.)
Or do you go up there and give it your best shot without worrying about the outcome?

I used to worry about all of this and was terrified at the immensity of the task at hand. How could I become a perfect fit for all the expectations these people had of me? How could I fulfill their ideas, dreams and anticipations? How could I fulfill the expectations of my teachers, my agents, my parents, my partners, and of myself? Then, of course with so many demands on my shoulders, I would shut down and do a mediocre job.
Others, on the opposite, will be overly confident and over do it, coming off obnoxious or cocky. But arrogance is a form of insecurity too. It is its polar opposite.

So, how do you prepare yourself to come off at ease, relaxed and simply present on stage?

The answer is simple and complex at the same time, and I used to hate it when someone would tell me, “ just be yourself!”  What does it mean? I have many selves, don’t you? I am an actress after all, a chameleon… Just being myself did not mean anything to me then, until I finally understood what it meant. It means, “just be present.”

Your presence, the “Who You Are,” or “Who I Am,” is simply revealed when you completely connect with the present moment. It is the feeling that happens when you bypass the chatter in your brain, the questions, “what will they think? What do I look like now? Did this sound good?” It is about letting go of the  “I am watching myself,” to simply connect with the  “ I AM.” There, that is it. Simple and beautiful, and hard at the same time.

 It takes practice and self-control to connect with our “I AM” and quiet the chatter brain. It takes mindfulness, contemplation, stillness, patience and great compassion for ourselves. It takes self-care and self-love. It takes a connection with our source of inspiration and energy. It takes humility and surrender to a force greater than us. It takes a regular exploration of our Highest Creative Self and a let go of our smaller Ego self. It takes practice.

But it is your true way to shine on stage.

It is what will help you shine through your true presence, your true charisma, your true soul. It is what stars are made of.

So next time you "go up there," try to simply "be there"...

Emmanuelle Chaulet

Emmanuelle Chaulet is an acting coach, a holistic acting practitioner, CRPL3, adjunct faculty at the University of Southern Maine, Fulbright scholar and author of A BALANCING ACT. She is the founder and director of Starlight Acting Institute, which offers individual sessions, workshops and retreats. http://www.starlightacting.org
She can be contacted at: energize@starlightacting.org

Open the GATE! Actor Jim Carrey and others speak about spiritual awakening in the Entertainment Industry

At an inaugural meeting of a new organization called, the Global Alliance for Transformational Entertainment (GATE) founded by John Raatz of the Visioneering Group, actor Jim Carrey reveals he had a moment of awakening and enlightment.

GATE hopes to support media and entertainment professionals use the power of the media for positive change and transformation in the world creating a network and a community of professionals committed to furthering global awakening through Entertainment and Media.

Peter Shiao, CEO of the Orb Media Group and one of the speakers at the event said. "We create images that people all over the world see as reality. With that power comes responsibility. This is about delivering rich transformational experiences that people want to pay money for."

 As actors and performing artists you too have a responsibility... Seize the day and start transforming the world by transforming your inner-self...

See the complete article  and a video at THE EXAMINER

Putting the Spotlight on Healthy Fats, by Patti McCabe

It’s the half hour call and you are exhausted.  How are you going to make it through the performance tonight?  Like a ray of sunshine, someone brings you…what?  A cup of coffee?  Soda?  Red Bull?  Candy bar?  Whatever it is, it’s your salvation of the moment.   Sound familiar?  Believe me, I know the drill.   The problem is that the effects of caffeine and sugar are short lived.  So how often do you find that you are back to where you started by the time intermission comes around?   The trick becomes finding a daily routine that supports you all the way to curtain call, thus eliminating the need for quick fixes that can have a detrimental impact on your short and long term health.

I have previously discussed the benefits of increasing your consumption of whole foods and decreasing processed and junk foods.  Whole grains, beans, fruits and vegetables will give you longer, more sustained energy.  But in this post, I want to focus on another area, one that has become quite a hot topic in our society - especially given the prevalence of obesity issues.  While a low-fat diet seems to have become one to be admired and emulated to improve health, the truth is we’ve become so obsessed with lowering our fat intake that we are missing out on the incredible benefits that healthy fats do provide. 

Not all oils and fats are created equal. Heavily processed, hydrogenated, “trans” fats and oils that are used in prepared, packaged foods can be extremely damaging to the body. However, fats and oils from whole foods and other high-quality sources can steady our metabolism, keep hormone levels even, nourish our skin, hair and nails and provide lubrication to keep the body functioning fluidly. Our bodies also need fat for insulation and to protect and hold our organs in place.

A healthy percentage of high-quality fat in a meal satisfies and leaves feelings of energy, fulfillment and warmth. When there are excess fats and oils in the diet, especially heavily processed fats, symptoms can include weight gain, skin breakouts, high blood pressure, liver strain and an overall feeling of mental, physical and emotional heaviness. Signs of insufficient high-quality fats are brittle hair and nails, dry skin, hunger after meals and feeling cold.

There are many sources of healthy fats and oils. For sautéing and baking, try butter, ghee (clarified butter) or coconut oil because they do not break down when used at high temperatures. When sautéing foods at moderate temperatures, try organic extra virgin olive oil. Oils like flaxseed, sesame, toasted sesame, walnut and pumpkin seed are best used unheated in sauces or dressings on top of salads, veggies or grains. Other healthy fats are found in whole nuts and seeds and in their butters like almond butter or tahini. Whole foods such as avocados, olives and coconuts are great sources of healthy fat, along with wild salmon and omega-3 and omega-6 organic eggs.

When selecting oils, buy the highest-quality organic products you can afford, since cooking oils are the backbone of so many dishes. Good words to look for on the label are organic, first-pressed, cold-pressed, extra-virgin and unrefined. Words to avoid are expeller-pressed, refined and solvent extracted.

So, when you are reaching for a snack for a quick pick me up before a performance, consider these options:
•    A few cups of popcorn tossed with olive oil and sea salt
•    Apples and Cashew butter
•    Celery and Almond butter
•    Plain avocado or Whole Grain chips with guacamole
•    Salad tossed with flaxseed oil

I encourage you to experiment with these healthy fat sources and see which work best for you and leave you satisfied.  By nourishing your body this way on a regular basis, you will start giving it the boost it needs to maintain optimal function on stage AND off. 


Patti McCabe is a Certified Holistic Health Counselor who specializes in helping the performing arts community get more out of their lives by getting more out of their food.  She received her training at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York City and is accredited through the American Association of Drugless Practitioners.  She leads workshops on health and nutrition, and offers both individual and group counseling services in person and by phone.  More information at www.pattimccabe.com and http://pattimccabe.wordpress.com

Great Review in the NEW ENGLAND THEATRE JOURNAL!

I am thrilled that A BALANCING ACT just received a wonderful review in the highly respected New England Theatre Journal, a scholarly publication by the New England Theatre Conference.

My favorite sentences are:

" Chaulet readily concedes that she has picked up the trail where others ceased blazing, but she is deft in weaving the ideas together into a relevant system" ...

" Plainly, Chaulet makes her case. The craft of acting has had an unspoken need for a system that dedicates itself solely to balancing who we are with who we are required to become.The structure of Energize! is accessible because it provides an overview of various holistic centering techniques, and successful because it serves as a solid launching platform for those who want to develop their own pre- and post-performance rituals with further research."

By J.J. Cobb, Eastern Connecticut State University


You can get copies of the journal by contacting the New England Theatre Conference

Eric Rohmer, 'New Wave' master, dies yesterday at age 89

Eric Rohmer  left us yesterday...
In my memory remain long afternoons of delicate conversations while sipping tea, in the tireless pursuit of the understanding of the birth of feelings and love.
Weaving the subtle fabric which makes emotions and feelings, Eric Rohmer was, and will remain, a true writer at the camera.

Emmanuelle Chaulet
(Blanche, "Boyfriends & Girlfriends")

Happy New Year 2010! This Year, Make the Shift...

2010 is the start of a powerful expansion time, with a realignment of many institutions, organizations, ideas and people. 2010 is opening for all of us the chance to finally raise the planet’s vibration to a level of understanding of the world where the small ego does not rule anymore.

We are ready! We are ready to move from our fearful small self to our Highest Creative and Compassionate Loving Self. Human beings are capable of many things, from the best to the worst. This constitutes our beauty and our strength as well as our most terrible weakness. We are now ready to power upward and reach our highest potential for the highest good of all.

Are you ready to do the necessary work on yourself to be part of the greatest transformation of the planet? Are you ready to change your ways in order to help the global shift?

Reconnect with your creative artist mission,
Listen to your soul,
There is bliss in doing what you are meant to do!
 
Starlight Acting Institute is here to help you raise your vibration, reach your highest creative potential, recover your energetic balance and reconnect with your creative self. Visit our beautiful new website and check our new offerings for Individual Energize Sessions and Solo Retreat Programs for all creative souls and performing artists.

This year, make the shift…

In Love and Light,

Emmanuelle Chaulet
Starlight Acting Institute, director and founder
http://www.starlightacting.org


January Specials:

Mention the promotional code 01/02/2010 and get the student rate for Energize Individual Sessions (in January only).
or
Choose a “Creative Soul” Reconnection Package:  3 sessions for $201.00 instead of  $240  (a saving of $39!) Sessions from this package can be taken until the end of March 2010.