David G.
Photography by Derek Memmesheimer
If you’re reading this, “to thine own self be true”
Take the advice that Polonius offers his son Laertes as he sends him off to college in Shakespeare’s great tragedy HAMLET. In this chaotic and unpredictable world it can be difficult to know to whom to turn for advice, insight, and answers. Who should we listen to … and who can we actually trust? In this age of media super-saturation and social “content” addiction, you may feel constantly barraged by endless videos and voices: “influencers” who think they can connect with you through a 15-second clip, each vying for your attention, your eyeballs, your brain space, your almighty dollar.
I feel fortunate to work in an artform that exists only in shared, communal presence in real (as opposed to virtual!) space and time: the live theatre. I am most alive when I am “in the room” -- making theatre, sharing theatre, experiencing theatre. As a play unfolds (in the mystery of the eternal present), we collectively explore and grapple with what it means to be human: we celebrate our passions, our abilities, and our greatest triumphs; and we also confess our fears, our failings, and our profoundest losses.
As an artist working as a stage director in the theatre, I have a responsibility to the play, to the artists with whom I collaborate, and ultimately, to the audience. I work hard to understand, honor, and elevate each of these essential elements. But those responsibilities flow from my responsibility -- first and foremost – to myself. My fascination and curiosity fuel the process. My hard work and commitment set the standard. My imagination and vision guide the work. My enthusiasm and compassion invigorate those around me. One of the most important lessons about being an artist – and, of course, about being human – is quite simply: be true to yourself. Trust your instincts, trust your intuition, trust your gut. Be who you are with pride and conviction.
So, some final advice, if you are reading this. Turn off your darn devices, even just briefly. Get “present” and actively connect with the world around you, offering up an open heart and an open mind. Read a great work of literature – you could try an old chestnut called HAMLET by a guy named Shakespeare, if you’re looking for a recommendation. Go see a play, and think about what it means to be in the same place at the same time as all these other people, sharing our stories and learning to live. And do as Polonius bids –
“To thine own self be true.”
David G., Virginia Tech
Visiting Assistant Professor of Directing, School of Performing Arts
Connect With Us
To follow IfYoureReadingThis at Virginia Tech on Instagram, get in touch with our chapter, and learn about more resources available to Virginia Tech students, visit our chapter’s homepage.
AUTHOR CONTACT
This author has opted to allow readers who resonate with their story to contact them. If you would like to speak to the author of this letter about their experience, please use the form below.
