Intermission: COVID-19's Effect on Theatre

Fox Worth

What parts of the industry are you involved in?

I am involved in the acting and writing portions of the industry. Also, I teach acting and voice & speech for actors.

Are you currently involved in any theatrical or artistic projects?

I am currently involved in a virtual theatre troupe that showcases short plays and movies every month called Lableless Black Box theatre.

How has the COVID-19 epidemic personally affected your artistic opportunities?

I mean, COVID hit in the middle of my second year of grad school at UCI. I had school-assigned and professional theatre gigs lined up from March-September of 2020. So it definitely was not the best time for theatrical opportunities. And since then I have done zoom plays but... we know we crave the real thing! But any form of art that touches and changes an individual is still worthy art indeed.

What do you think is in store for the industry? Will it be the same post-COVID?

Whew sheesh. I think that everyone and everything has been or begun to be exposed. I think some people will change and some won’t. We gotta understand that the problems with the theatre were rooted in systemic things that go way way wayyy back. It takes time for people to learn and for it to actually have an impact. I think that there will be a new phase of revolutionary theatre. I do believe that we are in a new renaissance stage, so there is hope for change. I know that the first days people get to be on stage again will be magical MAGICAL moments. And I look forward to that. But as far as a whole actual change post covid... we shall see. I think the two questions will be: What or Whom was truly the problem and how do we remove it/them from these spaces and decision making rooms.

What words of advice or solidarity do you have for other artists in the theatre industry?

The words I have for the industry is do what you showcase to the people, change! Theatre is all about give and take. Action. Studying people. Being conscious of your awareness and the people around you. Understanding that change is necessary. Things will be hard to hear. Take it with love and keep working and hold YOUR PEERS ACCOUNTABLE. I also will say, this too shall pass. But what would any of this matter if you did not leave COVID not changed for the better. Not 100% perfect. It shouldn’t be an unrealistic standard to put people to. But to be aware, accountable, trustworthy, and kind will be the start of a beautiful return!

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