Analog, not Digital.
Our world is getting more digital every day. Each letter I input here, on this page, is made up of binary bits, pixels, elemental increments.
If you meditate, or study physics, you know there is an awful lot of empty space between all those bits. And in that space, between all the digital pieces, is something un-nameable, a mystery that is the truth of our beings and our voices. It is the connective tissue of our world.
It is that in-between bit that characterizes all the work that I do. I’m an analog girl, in a digital world. I believe we all are, in fact, that. As I am using it here, analog means: all parts, interconnected, delivering a truth that is evident – that directly touches those who receive it, in a continual flow. This flow can be presented as vocal and physical presence, as well as in the written word.
As Merriam Webster puts it: “of or relating to or being a mechanism in which data is represented by continuously variable physical qualities.”
Here’s how I apply that to my work:
As an Editor:
While skillfully applying the ground rules of grammar, punctuation, usage, and with a love of the English language, I feel into the essence of the voice of the writer and do my best to make sure that is what shows up on the page.
As a Media Coach:
While sharing technical vocal and physical skills and tips, I focus most especially on proven methods of bringing one’s authentic soul and presence into any situation, no matter what kind of audience, expectation, or recording device is present.
As a Teacher:
I offer skills that focus on technical precision, body and vocal use for clarity of delivery, and true communication, both onstage and on camera. Then I teach a method of bringing one’s true soul to any character or text, such that the character is accurately portrayed by the very person portraying him/her– not some stock version, or generality of form. I teach skills that both provide technical mastery, and allow the mystery of being to flow, without over-manipulation, so that actors are living onstage and vitally interesting to watch.
(This is exactly what happens for my media coaching clients as well – they get to simply Be, at their events, and deliver their message with clarity and impact.)
As an Actor and a Writer:
It is hard to describe oneself as an artist. Most often, one would prefer to leave that job to someone else. About my own artistry and presence, I will say this:
I apply the technical skills and craft I trained in for many years, and then I let myself live in the mystery, trusting that the completeness of my commitment to text and embodiment, to soul and craft, allow the voices of the characters I bring into the world, to soar.
I believe that focusing in this way invites a flow of actuality – between writer and reader, between featured celebrity and media outlet, between actor and audience – that is undeniable. Being in the presence of a true and authentically shared voice, is healing to us all. It’s like standing beside a large oak tree. You cannot name all the parts that make it what it is, but you recognize it completely. Some aspects are ‘flaws;’ others appear as exquisite, perfectly formed patterns. It is itself. I strive always for that level of perfect imperfection, in all that I do.