I'm an actor, but also I own a taping studio that offers classes and workshops. We have been doing a mix of in-person and Zoom offerings this Fall, and I'm just curious to actors out there if your tolerance for Zoom is approaching zero?
Just wondering as we enter 2022 if it makes any sense to continue virtual offerings. It certainly helps those who are not local to Atlanta that still want to partake, or to the immunocompromised who still don't feel safe in small gatherings. But as a business, it becomes a cost/benefit analysis. Any feedback is appreciated!
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Oh, DUDE! Zoom fatigue is a thing! I can't speak to the ROI for the service, but I can expand on the "compassion fatigue" we chatted about on Friday - so good to meet you virtually, btw! As an MT, you learn certain ways to temporarily recharge - stand & stretch, jumping jacks or meditating, shaking out your hands, rolling your neck. As stress increases, you do more dramatic things - yoga, take a walk, go out for lunch, watch adorable or funny animal videos, even receive your own massage. Generally, if you cannot shake off the funk of the day ON THE DAY, then you are staring down the barrel of impending "compassion fatigue". Yes, vacations do help. Yes, your own hobbies help. But without that zero-sum game, then over time, you will feel the erosion of energy and enthusiasm. Maybe it's worth it to take an energetic inventory, too?
Not a sermon, just a thought ;-)
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My tolerance for Zoom is still enjoyment. I do experience fatigue, but that was true when classes were only in person. I think performance online enhances an actor's understanding of what it is to work with a camera, even one as limited as the the one on top of a computer. I'll continue online performance classes as long as they're offered.. I'll also continue to perform improv online as well. I get to work with an international group, meet a variety of performers, and study with teachers I otherwise wouldn't have been able to. For me, the pluses of Zoom override any fatigue I experience.
I'm a yoga teacher, so I find ways to move when I'm on camera, and (when my camera is off) I make sure I don't pull focus from other actors in my classes/performances.
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Thanks, Taylor D Edwards for that feedback! We're hosting a 4-day Zoom workshop this weekend, so let's hope everyone stays focused!
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Bio Breaks are key ~ I'm sure everyone will enjoy your workshop and I wish you the best of everything,