These recent times have been some of the hardest challenges we've faced and as a community, it hit us pretty hard. However during these difficult times, here at Pocket Size Theatre, we wanted to spread a little positivity and share some peoples experiences because we are all in this together. Each day we'll be speaking to our friends in the industry to share their experiences with you all so take a read and see how people are getting through these hard times.
Let's stick together, share the love and get through this as a community!
*Some information mentioned in this article may be out of date due to the progress of the current situation. Please keep that in mind when reading*
Ailsa Davidson's credits include Lipsync (Cumberland Theatre/Summerhall); Judith in Elegies for Angels, Punks and Raging Queens (Union Theatre); Miss Lynch and Cover Rizzo & Jan (UK Tour); Americana (Theatre Royal Stratford East) and Sarah in Our House (Union Theatre).
On Monday 16th March 2020, The Society of London Theatre announced the closure of all Theatres in London. This followed suit with regional venues. Where were you when you found out and what was your initial reaction?
I think I was actually working at the Union. That made a huge impact because I just knew how difficult closure was going to be for everyone but especially our fringe venues. I could almost see worst-case scenario first, you know?
Can you tell us anything productive you’ve been doing?
I’ve been continuing my Acting for Screen class remotely (ActingUp with Vicky Alcock in case anyone is interested) which has vastly improved my self-tape technique and kept me creative with weekly projects. I’ve also been listening to the spotlight webinars (highly recommend, especially if you’re in a bit of a rut) and managed to bag a 1-2-1 (felt like trying to get Glastonbury tickets when I was booking). Just keeping myself in the loop and proactive as possible really. It’s difficult when we don’t know what is next for the industry but I’m just working on the things I can control. But I’ve also just been allowing myself time to just be. Trying to be kinder and less critical of myself. I think through the act of just sitting with your thoughts and exploring them, you are giving yourself fuel as an actor. We don’t get enough time for this usually.
