Okay, so the goat is what I want to talk about today. I am a vocal performance major, so opera is going to be a big part of my life for the many years to come. Yet, my debut was a small role, without any speaking or singing parts. I can't tell you how many people tried to reassure me that this is how I get into the business, how I "get my horns wet", as my voice teacher told me. Some of them seemed sorry for me.
That's ridiculous! I absolutely loved my role! Yes, I look forward to the day that I get to sing on that stage, but today, I am content with this minor role with crazy makeup! You see, theater is not only conveyed through the leads, but also in the small roles. If I went on that stage with a grudge and barely acted, that entire scene would flop. No, the whole opera wouldn't be ruined; I don't matter that much, but it is important for all the little parts to be just as invested in the performance as the big parts.
Not only that, but I also love the opportunity to be creative and play with a character without lines. It requires physical improvisation, something that is good to practice now and then. Believe it or not, tt is possible to make people laugh without speaking!
That is why I love being the goat. I don't have to be seen for more than 5 minutes to be remembered. Acting is about making every second on stage count, no matter what character you are. Today, I got to be a little goofy, die gloriously, and even get a minor workout on stage! It was a blast!
I hope that every one of my acting friends out there realizes that the small role they are in right now is important if you make it so. Think about it this way: you can be in the background, or your could be a character. That is completely up to you.
I also want to point out that without the goat, I would not be performing in the opera this year. I lucked out, and I am grateful for the opportunity, no matter how small. My acting ability is out therenow, all I have to do is prove that I can sing!
One more performance to go! I hope that some of you can make it!
Have you had a small role in the past? What did you do to make it fun?