Blog has moved to a new page!

Hello, Hello, If you still check my blog, I am writing to re-direct you to my new space for my blog. My blog now lives on my weebly website, where you can see pictures from my shows, see what I'm up to, and keep up with my blog. Check out www.elisearsenault.com Thanks for keeping up with what I'm up to, and let me know what's happening in your world!

Oxford: Part Deux

Wow, one week left in this magical city!
It's been a whirlwind of classes, tutorials, rehearsals, river walks (and runs), pub outings, and masterclasses. Today's "master" was Fiona Shaw. I love that she is as fabulous a teacher as she is a performer! In two brief hours, we left with 3 or 4 practical tips for approaching a Shakespeare of modern piece. I hope to someday reach a similar level of excellence.

I will post pictures and more thoughts about the journey as this week continues, it will provide quick breaks from rehearsals. All in all, I have made some monument discoveries, and have experienced moments of validation. I look forward to returning back to life and career in the States with this new perspective. So much to read, work on, pursue!!

On the river in Stratford-upon-Avon

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Journey to Oxford: Part 1

Yesterday, I arrived at Oxford University for the British American Drama Academy's summer program. Lovely to be here, lovely views, lovely people... and it's only been 24 hours.

This is my first time in the UK, so my journey from the gate at London's Heathrow to Magdalen College, Oxford was an adventure in itself :) After annoying a couple bus drivers (`stupid american`, I could see them thinking, as I asked too many directions and got on the wrong bus... haha), and observing a wide array of international accents, I settled into my room here.

This morning, I took an introductory walk around the neighborhood, found some fair trade organic coffee, and performed my placement audition (tomorrow we will be placed into groups for the session). Around noon, I met up with my first friends here, 2 UCLA grad students. Before I left the states, I received a fabulous list of places to go from an experienced Oxford grad. We checked out the first place on the list, Georgina's. Goat Cheese, Roasted Peppers, & Rockets (arugala, appently) Panini+ Pomegranate Rasperry Soda=Delish! Post lunch, our first tourist outing through the city-- walked around Christ Church College (featured in the HARRY POTTER movies), and mimicked every accent we heard... haha. Tonight, we hit our first pub!

In the meantime, I am enjoying time to be still and read. On my way to the airport, Dad furnished me with a copy of `The Alchemist`, just the book I need for the trip. Loving it's optimistic advice to pursue my Personal Legend. On my way out of the gate today, I bumped into a fellow actor who said, `Great book. It will make you want to stay an actor`.

Happiness is...

...a refreshing, summer afternoon breeze... and a salad of fresh garden-picked veggies (basil, lettuce, cherry tomatoes, black bell pepper topped with sunflower seeds, Vermont cheddar and balsamic vinagrette)... Happiness is begging a little froggy to allow me to assist in his escape out of the swimming pool.

Nothing beats the summer in Rhode Island. Before a year ago, I didn't expect I'd ever move back, and then in returning to "Little Rhody", I never thought I'd actually ENJOY being here :) Who knew that Providence could turn into New Orleans for an evening (or week).... Last week, Providence hosted the annual Sound Sessions, a festival of funk, jazz, reggae, blues and more. Saturday night, after my performance, I took to the city and got down with hundreds of others dancing to the blasting horns of What Cheer Brigade and Big Nazo Puppets. The party played into the night throughout downtown, performers at every corner.

Happiness is also performing, performing, performing... I feel blessed to have work as an actor right now. My third show of the year is wrapping up this weekend. If you are in RI or nearby, come check out "The Late Christopher Bean" at 2nd Story Theater in Warren. "small-town theatre at it's best" -The Wall Street Journal

Jim Henson said...

"I believe we can use television and film to be an influence for good."

Just saw a poster with Jim Henson and his Muppets at the school library where I am working today. I have been taking inventory in the media room, where I've found numerous videos starring my favorite actors: Glenn Close, Denzel Washington, Sigourney Weaver and John Lithgow, among others. As a new month is beginning, I have been taking inventory in my own life. Am I where I want to be professionally right now? I'm on the way, but no, not exactly. Over the past couple of days I have decided on new personal choices in my move forward. Sunday morning, I ran a half-marathon in Providence. Running long distances in a race always motivates me to "go the distance" in other facets of my life.

Most importantly, I am working to secure my financial future so that I can begin to plan a move back to the city (NY or DC) by Summer/Fall 2011, unless grad school comes first. In the meantime, I will work to join the actors union(s). I am thrilled to have work right now. I begin rehearsals this week for an exciting outdoor production of Henry VIII with The Rhode Island Shakespeare Theatre (TRIST). More info can be found on my new website: www.elisearsenault.com

Up & Running

It is SO GOOD to be back on stage again! Last night was the first preview for "The Voysey Inheritance" at 2nd Story Theatre. We've got a smart little show -- polishing up over the next week, then should be a beauty. What I found to be funny was that I found myself nervous for the first time in quite awhile-- my heart was fluttering as I made my first entrance in the first scene. I hadn't realized it's been at least two years since I've performed in a house of over 100, in the round, and for adults... quite naked out there... but oh so thrilling and juicy too!

Part of the thrill is to be working with a talented and humble group of giving actors with diverse backgrounds. Another thrill is to be performing near my hometown after eight years away. I am so thankful to have had the time away from Rhode Island, in competitive markets to make mistakes, learn, and grow in confidence. The homecoming feels like a new starting point in the next stage of my career-- TBD.

So, I'm a huge LOST fan, and found this past week's episode inspiring. Michael Emerson (actor who plays Ben) gave one of his finest, most human performances, which caused me to research his career. Emerson earned a BA in theater from a midwestern college, and after a short, unsuccessful stay in NY, he retreated to Florida where he taught and performed in local theater productions for years. In his late 30s, he earned an MFA at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, and moved onto NY, where this time, he landed Broadway role after role... His role on LOST was only to be a guest star for a few episodes, but the audience loved him so much, that he has become a major role in the past five seasons. A fine performer, his classical experience and training is obvious in his truthful deliveries.

Emerson's story has reassured my faith that I am where I'm supposed to be right now. My big break could be next year, ten years from now, or the compilation of a set of small breaks over the next decade. In a few weeks, I should know whether I will attend grad school next year. Either way, it will be what's right for this part of my journey. I am in a show, and loving it... will revel in every moment!

Grad School Audition Tour 2010 Complete...

...and what a journey it's been, both professionally and personally. Since my move back to RI last August, I have been preparing for these past two months of auditions. Four major trips to New York (3x), Chicago, smaller trips to Cambridge and Providence provided adventure away from smalltown Bristol, as well as opportunity to audition for some of the best directors and teachers at MFA Acting programs across the nation. Some were personal successes, others not so much. And whether I am accepted into a grad program this year, or apply again next year, life goes on, I will continue to act. I have learned much about myself, my audition fears and what stands in my way from succeeding (it's usually my self-critic who decides she's invited into the audition room). It's been a great opportunity to learn a half dozen new monologues with the guidance of Bob Colonna, who plays my father in upcoming" The Voysey Inheritance". It's a relief and accomplishment to have completed this process!

Yesterday, I embellished my normal 2 monologue (classical/contemporary) routine with a trombone/vocal arrangement of "Hit Me w/a Hot Note". It earned me an end-of-the day callback at the experimental Columbia University program! I would like to continue incorporating my instruments into future performances... perhaps a recital or cabaret to come this summer... depending on the grad school results.

On the bus ride back to Providence now. About to embark on final two weeks of rehearsal for my professional RI theater debut; "The Voysey Inheritance" at 2nd Story Theater in Warren. It promises to be an intelligent production... Pretty dresses, a wealthy family and a Ponzi Scheme... talented cast and director!

What: THE VOYSEY INHERITANCE by Harley Granville-Barker, adapted by David Mamet
Where: 2nd Story Theater, Warren RI
When: March & April
Details at www.2ndstorytheater.com

Mission

I feel like I've been working on my personal statements for the past two weeks with no end in sight. Last night, while re-editing drafts and searching A.R.T./Moscow Art School's Institute for the Advanced Actor, I think I discovered my mission... and my program.

By living in the skin, using the words, and breathing the breath of diverse characters, I shed light on overlooked or underexposed viewpoints and encourage audiences to challenge their own assumptions. I seek to use theater as a means for change, and ultimately peace, by breaking down barriers of ignorance.

This is why I act... It's a powerful stage... my entire life I've felt the call, but have been afraid at times that I seemed too selfish (an actor is always trying to stay fit, working on craft, putting performances/auditions before everything or everyone else)... Coming from a service-minded family (of talented teachers), I was raised to live a life for others. I'm thrilled to discover this powerful mission, and get to work. Hopefully, the end of these applications is in sight.

Check this out: http://starbucksloveproject.com/#/main/

Snowed In.. MFA Apps...

Late December... blizzard has made its way from Virginia to this New England town... hitting so many of friends and loved ones, who I picture snuggled up watching movies, last minute Christmas shopping online, sipping hot cocoa or red wine. I'm snowed in at my parent's house where I have been residing since August. Cozy.. wood stove blaring, smell of a pancake breakfast being prepared. One year ago, I moved from DC to NY, and am now in RI. I am missing DC friends and the few NY friends now more than ever. Finishing my MFA applications today. Looking forward to all the paperwork being out, and turning complete focus to auditions.... and the holidays!

Hope you are safe and enjoying the snow that has brought us a White Christmas!

Focus

So my first few months in this city were difficult. 'Nuff said. I feel blessed to have had a group like Artistic New Directions to keep me going with Improv and new works, blessed to have a job (even if it is waiting tables), and blessed to have fab roommates (my bro Marcel, and friend Taisha).

I have recently found a highly recommended vocal coach whose clients perform on Broadway and throughout the world, many whose names you'd recognize... He has helped me to accept who I am, how I am seen, and love it... Each week we are finding new songs to add to my audition book, and I am working it.

I do need to get into dance class too. Hopefully by mid-July I'll be there.

Friday night, I was SO inspired by Sherie Rene Scott's show, "Everyday Rapture". If you haven't seen it, check it out! It closes next week. I felt like she was speaking to me and where I'm at in life. It didn't hurt that she threw in a few songs from "Mr. Rogers!" Marvin Hamlisch happened to be at the performance I went to.. no announcement or anything, I just heard the man after me at the box office say, "Two tickets under Hamlisch", and sure enough there he was, the famous composer... LOVE NY!

New York Debut!

So I've made it! Next week I open my first New York show. It is a short comedic play entitled "This Relationship" by Patrick Nash, directed by Kristine Niven. The play is part of a larger production, "An Eclectic Evening of Shorts II" produced by Artistic Directions.

If you are in the city, please do come!

"An Eclectic Evening of ShortsII"

Theatre 54
244 W. 54th St.
12th fl

Tickets $18.00
212 868 4444 http://www.smarttix.com/

http://www.artisticnewdirections.com/
212 875 1857

There are two sets of plays ("Boxers" and "Briefs" performing in rep.) My play is in the "Briefs" set. Dates/times are:

Previews:
Saturday, March 7 @ 8pm
Sunday, March 8 @ 2pm

Opening:
Monday, March 9 @ 7pm
Wednesday, March 11 @ 8pm
Friday, March 13 @ 8pm
Saturday, March 14 @ 2pm
Sunday, March 15 @ 7pm

Artistic New Directions
Kristine Niven & Janice L. Goldberg, Artistic Co-Directors
presents
An Eclectic Evening of Shorts II

*Actors Equity

Boxers Actors: Chris Campbell, Christian Conn*, Brian Corrigan*, Jeffrey Dannemen*, Crystal Finn*, Allison Goldberg*, Carol Lempert*, Ian Lowe*, Kristine Niven*, Eric Petersen*, Felicia Ricci, Megan Stern, Jennifer Laine Williams*, Jennifer Wren*
Briefs Actors: Trey Albright*, Elise Arsenault, Michelle Best*, Donna Klimek, Douglas Manes*, David O. Marx, Elena McGhee*, Devin Moriarity, Brian Gerard Murray, James Nugent*, Laughlin Rice, Cooper Shaw*, Ruth Sherman, Paul Singleton*, Amir Wachterman, Scotty Watson*

A New Day -- A New Administration

I watched Barack Obama's Inauguration from Times Square last week, and felt so proud and blessed to be an American. Although I've grown up in THE most patriotic town in America (Bristol, RI has the oldest 4th of July Parade in the country, and celebrates year round with red, white, and blue stripes down our main street), I haven't felt very patriotic during the past, oh, eight years. Originally, I was scheduled to work breakfast/lunch, but because our lunch was not looking busy, I was let off just in time to step out onto the square. What an experience... I was surrounded by the most excited and thrilled New Yorkers and tourists... we were strangers talking freely, hugging freely, letting tears of happiness run freely; rejoicing in celebration of this momentous occasion. I stood next to two women who were as thrilled as I, and two British gentlemen (who were psyched to be in town for this unique, historic American event). They had many questions, about the outgoing VP in the wheelchair, the trivia questions on CNN (i.e. "Obama is the 5th youngest president", etc.), and we were proud to answer them. It was an interesting moment to reflect, and realize that "Wow!", not many other countries vote for their leader, and I wonder if any have had 44 presidents. I take so much for granted... and I don't believe I am the only one.

More thoughts to follow...

Work in 2009

Hello, Hello!

I am writing to share my good fortune.. I have been hired at a fine dining restaurant in Times Square. Although this does not sound like the best job ever, I'm an actor in New York... I'm on my way to making it, have my first restaurant gig :)It's called Blue Fin, check it out: http://www.brguestrestaurants.com/restaurants/blue_fin/index.php

In all seriousness though, economic times have made it difficult for me to rely on temp jobs/teaching jobs for steady income from the start. And I need work right away. My first week and a half in New York has been both challenging (not knowing if I can spend any money) and amazing (catching up with old friends/acquaintances from many parts of my life). Now secure in a serving job, I am free to begin the audition search for acting jobs, and the application process for teaching artist work. I begin standardized patient work Thursday at Cornell Med School.

Thank you for your prayers and thoughts thusfar, and may 2009 be a blessed year for us all!

Almost There....

So in spite of my lack of blogging, I have been making progress in my NY preparation. Headshots/resumes out to several TV shows. Standardized patient work set up at a few programs, temping agencies contacted... have a few leads for teaching artist work.

Celebrated the past few years in DC with several friends-- new and old.. It's been a good chapter, and I've been blessed with lovely people in my life!

My concert over Thanksgiving in Rhode Island was a blast! Will upload pictures soon. I was blessed with an awesome accompianist, Diane Gualtieri, and Marcel and Andre with whom I sang "A Little Fall of Rain" and "Breathe". I am contemplating the upcoming "In the Heights" audition.. why not?! What have I got to lose?

Anyway, four days left til moving day. This time I WILL be packed before my parents arrive to help me this weekend :)

Days Until Move: 4

Workout: Treadmill, crunches, chair leg lifts

.. been making money

That's why I haven't been keeping up... financial maintenance is part of my pre-NY boot camp, so it's a good thing... But, now, time to catch up with where I'm at. I had a great discussion with a successful DC actress yesterday about working out. She is super fit, and there she was eating a grilled brie w/fries, and a side of hummus/pita. I had to inquire about her fitness regimen. First off, half of the food was going home with her, and secondly, she makes a few visits to the gym, DAILY. Okay, that's where I've gone wrong. I currently visit the gym a few times, weekly. SO, time to amp up my regimen. Kickboxing this afternoon! No matter my schedule tomorrow, I am out of bed tomorrow early to get quick run in before the hectic day.

In career news, I have been cast in a student film at American University. If all goes well, I'll have another clip to add to my "put a reel together" set.

My brother, Marcel, is an up-and-coming singer/songwriter in NYC. If you live in the city, and are free Saturday night, check out his show or website (www.myspace.com/marcelarsenault) :

When: This Saturday, November 1 at 9PM
Where: The Perch Cafe, 356 5th ave, Brooklyn (between 5th and 6th)
Take F, M or R train to 9th St and 4th

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Days Until Move: 51
Workout: Kickboxing

- received music from composer/ now have all the music for the concert I am prepping for in November
- cast in student film

TO DO: -fix computer so that my new printer will be compatible
- Plan and accomplish 5 workouts this week, and add on next week

Monday... my favorite

Love the fresh beginnings that Monday offer! Rented a car for my Busch Gardens trip yesterday, so went on errands today. Jaymez gave a stunning performance (at B. Gardens) as usual.. Congrats!! In the Heights definitely in his future... Gorgeous fall day in DC :) Crisp and cool, thanks for the package with my winter coats, Mom!

Days 'til move: 59

-received e-mail from composer whose music is unpublished ( i've been seeking it for over a year).. He is sending at least one song my way!
-began organizing recital/concert in Rhode Island
-purchased printer

Week One Down...

Days til move: 62
Workout: Rest day (rode bike to Rayna's and workin at restaurant tonight--- i'll be on my feet)

-created a page on Actors Access... Check it out: http://resumes.actorsaccess.com/elisearsenault
-planned trip to Busch Gardens this weekend to see Jaymez perform!

Workin it out..

Days Til Move: 63
Workout: Run/Walk (40 mins)

- Acquired addresses for 10 TV shows cast in NY
- Scheduled a student film audition for next week

TO DO: BUY A PRINTER

Progress Report before the Debate

Days til move: 64
Workout: Toning Video (30 minutes)

- compiled and discussed (w/Aaron) a list of goals through October 2009, checked back on the list I had created last year... a major goal was re-gaining my singing voice, and I have!
- brainstormed and charted out a 3 day visit to NY in November
- submitted H/R to film student project

TO DO: UPLOAD H/R TO ACTOR'S ACCESS, AND SUBSCRIBE TO BACKSTAGE

One day down....

Used good self discipline at the restaurant tonight, as far as eating healthy... no munching on fries, or splurging on any junk. Since I had worked out pre-work, I had a burger with salad, and later on a skim chai latte... all yummy and nutritious!

Days 'til move: 65
Workout: Kickboxing (45 mins) --- love Ron's class, he is SUPER INSPIRING, and will make fun of one if she is not working as hard as she can! He called me out for missing the past two weeks!

-contacted a successful NY actor regarding websites that would be helpful
-heard back from a submission for a local independent film company... they recently aired a show on the Sci-Fi channel, and will contact me with the date of their next audition
-began recording 2008 receipts and business expenses, which will be helpful when I file taxes in the new year

TO DO: Compile list of goals for the month and year to share with Aaron at our meeting tomorrow