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Welcome to the B. Blog! What's happening right now with me will ALL be seen here. Upcoming performances, auditions, any and everything to do with my journey as a professional actress.

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

2015: Joy.

December 31, 2014- Joy.

Joy! It is funny when I first said that aloud to myself, I thought about that scene from Coming to America when they are in church and the camera goes to Akeem and he simply shouts "Joy"! That is a new word for my vocabulary, folks. Seriously the whole "happy" thing isn't something that I am used to. Why? Because I used to have this convoluted idea that happiness only comes when you are ready to receive it. And there I am still trucking along on my journey and I didn't think I was ready for happiness yet…there was still soooo much to be done. So take a person who is driven, overly critical of themselves,  and relationship oriented---in the end, you "end" up with a mess. A person who is trying to figure out how things will flow.

So going into 2015 I will find JOY in all that I do and I won't stand in the way of my blessings. So what is Joy to me? Well as an artist, any platform to show my artistic expression WOULD bring me so much joy. But truthfully, this is the year for career advancement for me. I know that sounds "odd" but moreso this is the first time in 5 or 6 years that my future is all about Brittney. I have been in two long term relationships, back to back, and well…let's just say I put Brittney on the back burner too long. So here is to the joy I will find in 2015 with many career, academic, and…personal advancements. 

Brittney

Twitter: @Broadway_B

Monday, December 29, 2014

2015: Independence.

December 29, 2014- Independence.

Just as another one of my goals for 2015: Success; what does independence mean to you? I am not ashamed of the current situation that I am in; however, I am not complacent either. I am always going after what is better or what is next. No that does not mean I am never satisfied with what I have, it means that I don't want to miss out on anything. Being independent in 2015 is about having my own. My own voice, my opinions, my own domestically…I can go on and on. But independence means being just me. 

Having no one else to depend on except for God. And let's face it, He is the only one who has never let me down. The holidays this year was a true reflection of how much I have grown and others around me have become complacent. To them, they feel like this is ALL that they are entitled to and they are okay with it. NOW don't get me wrong, there is a thin line between being ungrateful and being complacent. Yes I have had my moments of being ungrateful, sure. But this is bigger. This is me really wanting to step out and just live for me. The thoughts of owning my own home are what fills my evenings. The thought about job promotions and nailing down my Masters and Doctorate are what fuel my every move now. My dreams CAN and WILL become a reality because I am finally in a mindset for change. 

I was falling into patterns. Don't we all? When you respond or react a certain way to every situation or you find yourself in the same situations over and over again. It's nuts…and yet it's comfort. And damn, if i was happy?! I was never happy. It was like stepping out of your body and watching you fall into a trap. Uh…step around the hole! Don't go in there! So 2015 is about avoiding the hole….taking a slight detour but ending up at your same destination…on time. (smiles)

Brittney

Twitter: @Broadway_B

Wednesday, December 24, 2014

The Shift.

December 24, 2014- The Shift.

And today my holiday season finally commences! Rounding out December is me on an all-time high from work and with my acting career. Yes, I am have been very "mum" about  my acting endeavors but man oh man…is He working or what?? It is crazy how my life is shifting, you know? This is happy stuff is pretty cool. ;) No I am serious, taking a little time for me every day serves as the best medicine to a broken or misguided spirit. As I shift into 2015, I can start by saying 'thank you". Thank you to God, to my friends, to all the people in my corner who truly support me. Not just with WORDS but allow for their actions to speak louder. 




My paths are shifting rather quickly. Not only am I looking to be an artist that inspires people, I want to be an artist that transforms people's thinking: shift their chains of thought. Expanded their minds and perception of what art can be and do. Enlightening huh? I know I mention my past a lot in my blogs and that is mainly because the events of my past have SHAPED me so much and not always for the good.  This is the scripture I have been meditating on for the past couple of months:
"Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus" Phil 3:13-14
My shift into a more positive mindset has served MOST helpful to me and has allowed me to heal. 

What am I looking forward to in 2015? Independence, Joy, and Success.  I will be elaborating on them more over the next few days…I mean since I am work free! Woot, woot!


Brit



Twitter: @Broadway_B

Tuesday, December 16, 2014

Integrity.

Integrity.

As you get older, each stage of your life is accompanied by an age and a word that is affiliated with that age. For example, when you turned 18-20 it was RESPONSIBILITY, from 21-24 it was ADULTHOOD, from 30+ it is REAL LIFE. The stage I am in is in between “adulthoodness” and real life…and the word being thrown around at us “25s and Betweens” is INTEGRITY. Doing work that will set us towards real life but it is supporting your adulthood.

Amongst all of my artists and peers that I surround myself with…there has been a huge lack of integrity in their work and work ethic. And no I am not saying that I am perfect, but I do take pride in EVERYTHING that I do. Why wouldn’t you? I really believe it has do with the generational shift between Generation Y and the “Millennials” and we are becoming lazy. And not lazy like “don’t get up off your ass” lazy but moreso… “technology is my third-leg” lazy. If it has to be done manually, it is not done at all. 

Ok, okay where am I going with this? What I am trying to say is don’t forget that whatever you give or sow, it will grow back to you that way. If you don’t take care and tend your harvest or you choose to take care it some days more than others…you will see your harvest will be weak and not as fruitful.

There are many definitions associated with the word ‘integrity’ but the one I want to focus on is: the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles. Be honest with yourself and others. Have integrity in your work. As an adult, we can no longer throw ourselves into situations and say we didn’t have a choice or we complete it incorrectly because we didn’t have the time or just didn’t want to do it. Be upfront and honest. Communicate.

Clearly this was a vent.

That is all.


Brittney

Newness.

December 16, 2014-Newness.

I have been trying to right this particular entry for a while, but I have just gotten so busy lately. But that's the point---all the new things that have been arriving in my life has been so splendid and different. I have to keep checking in with myself spiritually and emotionally just to make sure I am taking it all in. LOOK---this is coming from a woman that used to FEAR things going too well or new things. I am serious. It wasn't that I would coward away from it all, but I would either avoid or even worse…sabotage it. 

But every day I believe my beacon of hope is being led down the right path. And then you ask yourself, how do you know it is the right path? Well, yes from my Christian standpoint I can say that it is God's Will; however from a universal standpoint I look at it as…anywhere that you are now that you weren't before…is where you ought to be. Which, in essence, is on the right path. You feel me? I was not sitting at my desk typing these blogs a year ago! I was not lying in my bed, a few months ago, contemplating going back to school for my Masters and Doctorate! Yes Doctorate! I wouldn't know the beauty of writing and creating grants and curricula, if I hadn't just started moving.

When people get bored, it is because they stop moving. And sure, we all move at very different pace and we are all moving towards very different goals. Believe me… each day my path is becoming more defined and oddly enough it deviates from my original plans. That is another blog. But because it is a part of my big picture, it is not like a culture shock. Roll with the road. Continue to move forward, we are meant to learn and make mistakes! Trust, we have all been through that but this is about embracing the new.


Brittney

Twitter: @Broadway_B

Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Forgive.

December 10, 2014- Forgive.

Forgiveness is not the same as forget. Forgetting makes you stupid, forgiving makes you wise. Let me share this scripture with you: 2 Corinthians 5:17, "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." It is crazy how I can learn and find in my heart to forgive those who have hurt me, tarnished me, but Brittney cannot find it in herself to forgive herself for the past. I know that "karma" is not a Christian belief or custom but I do believe in "you will reap what you sow". Sometimes we abuse the good we have because we don't realize its value. Or sometimes you think that you are more valuable than them anyways, so anything else is not better than you. Yes, that was my mindset a few years back.

I was with someone who loved me to my core and I didn't appreciate it. Not at all and even when I thought I would stop my ways and appreciate him…I didn't. I didn't because deep down I was angry and upset with myself and in my mind I thought " how in the world could someone love someone "like" me so much after all the things I have done"? Nuts, right? So I practically drilled into myself that I was not going to open up or open up my heart because I didn't think I deserved love. Things from my childhood still haunted me…and to be honest, it still does some days. Some mornings when I try rolling out of bed… I find it difficult. Ok, go ahead and shake your head but it was the truth. And another sad fact is I would personally sabotage my good. I would find a way to make it all go away even though…deep down I wanted nothing but to feel the comfort.

Now as I type I am sitting here still learning a lesson about forgiveness.  Being alone, at this point in my life, is a choice. I PURPOSEFULLY am single. And yes it is a challenge EVERY SINGLE day. Yes it is hard, but what was harder was being with someone and not being able to give 100% of me. You feel me?

Okay, okay yes that person hurt me…hurt me more than I could have fathomed but I was only reaping what I sowed. I never showed them enough appreciation, I never looked at what was right in front of me. Right in front of me…like a mirror. That person was not only someone dear to me…it was myself. I was not only hurting someone else, I was killing MY spirit. I had to learn to forgive myself for my sins. Let the past be the past. I don't know who this message is for today but please listen and realize that God has died for ALL of your sins. ALL OF THEM! As long as you have accepted him as your Lord and Savior… we are children of Christ and we are made anew. Let it go. Forgive and move on…

Sincerely,

Brittney

Tuesday, December 9, 2014

My Own Backyard.

December 9, 2014- My Own Backyard.

So much has been going on in the world lately and not just the world at large but right in my backyard. I have witnessed in the same week: home goings and life being brought into this world. I have sat amongst the company of true visionaries and have learned that my paths are directly in line in the way they achieved their goals. So before I continue I just want to pray for all of my friends who have lost love ones recently and to say congratulations to all of my friends who have found that they will be bringing life into this world and lastly and MOST importantly, Thank You God…for leading me and exposing me to the right people at the right time.
Tonight, after coming home from a very trying day at work. That typically goes hand and hand working with ALL females     -_- but nevertheless I came home and all I wanted to do was eat, take long warm bath, and read my bible. Sometimes after being absorbed in all the gossip and banter back and forth, I just want to come home to the Word. And yes I am guilty of it. Call me two-faced or whatever, but there are going to be days that you like someone and others that you don't. Right? So anyways, as I settled into my bath, the pages of my bible literally fell open to a scripture about "true worship". Highly insightful. I will be writing more on it tomorrow.

Until then…peace.


Brit

Sunday, December 7, 2014

Visionary.

December 7, 2014- Visionary.

Now you all know I must have been busy as hell to go without writing for almost over a week and it is true! This is the most time I have had to myself in about 2 weeks or so…soooo with all of that being said "hey y'all". What I have been exposed to over the course of the past two weeks have truly shown how much my character has developed over the past year. And the biggest revelation about me that I learned is that "I am good under pressure". Like seriously, I don't buckled or falter. Yes, I may get frustrated but bet your bottom dollar that show WILL go on and it WILL run flawlessly. 

I really haven't gone into detail about my "work-life" balance too much because I wanted to keep the artistic side and work side separate from my blogs but with things beginning to align, the two are evolving together. I am the Director of Quality Assurance for a non-profit organization called Girls Inc. It is a HUGE nationally recognized organization that specializes specifically in Girl Empowerment and Youth Development.  And I can honestly say " I love my job".  (smiles) I remember my ex telling me that "there will never a job that I love to do and will be able to sustain financially. I would have to find one or the other". Crazy, how being with you I felt that I couldn't find that…and now without you everything is working. Interesting.

Actress Sheryl Lee Ralph & Me

Nevertheless, this week was our 9th Annual People of Influence Gala and let me tell you: being amongst so many prestigious dignitaries and influential people from our community was emotionally overwhelming. Our CEO, who is the definition of a visionary, at the 11th hour placed task upon task on my plate and I did not falter. I had to write speeches and coordinate with the sound/AV people, in essence I was the show runner. I was told about 24 hours before the event that I would be speaking on behalf of the entire administration and leadership team for Girls Inc. I mean…God knew how to put me in front of the right people and have me speak on behalf of something that truly means so much to me. And I haven't even gotten to the best part!

Our guest speaker that evening was the mutli-talented actress Mrs. Sheryl Lee Ralph! And to round it off, I got to spend the ENTIRE evening with her. Not just in her presence, but one-on-one at dinner. Talking about issues that are effecting our country and our young people! It was truly a blessing… SO as I reflect on all of the frustration that I have been through over the past couple of years, this past weekend made it all worthwhile. Speaking with Mrs. Ralph showed me exactly how your path as an artist can lead you to channel and speak to millions. Her platforms of HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention are the catalyst for her work as a performer now. She creates plays on these topics and tours the country going from venue to venue, campus to campus RAISING AWARENESS! If that is NOT what I feel that I am called to do every single day, then I don't know what is.

I thank God so much for placing me in the presence of one of his children: a woman that I had the esteemed pleasure talking to and connecting with. Thank you God.

Brittney

Sunday, November 30, 2014

Rounding Out the Month.

November 30, 2014- Rounding Out the Month.

Sexy, Strong, and Sweet.
Well that was a helluva month! Whew! Shit! Excuse my language but the high I was on entering the month and how November ended is almost a complete 180! Not completely more like a 110 or something. But seriously I am so happy that it is over and on to one of the most productive months of my year--DECEMBER! Lord I have almost survived a whole year. Hallelujah! I can't wait to do a total reflection. Take in the year as a whole and reflect where I was. 

So the point of this blog is more of a personal reflection than an artistic journey review. So the holidays are by far one of the most…spiritually draining times of the year for me. Why? Well because this is the time of the year that you typically spend with someone who is close and personal with you. Right? Well this is the first time in 6 years that I will be "alone" for the holidays. Not that I don't have family and whatnot but I mean without a significant other. And it is quite different. I am off. Like emotionally just off…not depressed but just off. So a piece of advise to all of my fellow readers and artists, maybe being alone is NOT a bad thing. To be honest, I have only learned more about myself over this time. 

have a created a new term: A.A.--and no not Alcoholics Anonymous but "Artistically Alone". Let that sit with you for a while. For my soul as an artist, checking in with Brittney was the best thing that I could have done for myself. I know I sound cliche but it is the truth. 

So I am looking to leap into December and into the New Year and uh…OH I am starting my New Years Resolutions now!

Brit

Tuesday, November 25, 2014

A Brief Moment in My History

November 25, 2014- A Brief Moment in My History

"A decision was reached.
In a system that was neither “breached” or "created"
With people and public figures evaded...the truth."

I never have seen the truth be so "subjective" in my life. Although this is a reaction of the current time, we must remember that this is not a reflection of all the time. This too shall pass and in the end...if we destroy the very foundations we are fighting to create and have, we have nothing. 

"A system cannot fail those it was never built to protect"---Unknown.

This is quote is not by W.E.B. DuBois, check your resources. However, it is very powerful nonetheless.

#prayers4Ferguson


Brittney

Monday, November 24, 2014

At Your Best.

November 24, 2014- At Your Best.

What is your personal best? Like at what point do you say to yourself “that was the best I could do” or even say to yourself “good job”? Do you find the time to do so? Honestly, I forgotten how to compliment myself and even now when I receive a compliment, I am awaiting some sort of critique or sly comment. Why?? Frankly, because I am extremely hard on myself. Like beyond hard on myself and it is sad. 

I am so hard on myself that I even have trouble accepting compliments. Either about my talent or my looks, I find myself shrinking away. I mean sure I could sit back and list the reasons "why" but I am not going to talk about how others have effected me. I am talking about with myself. Well I have to learn to stop.  I was talking to my Acting Coach last week about how I feel like I am losing my “swag”. My swag: that Brittney flavor that sets me apart from the rest. It has dissipated over the course of the past few months and I am not sure why. To be honest, I noticed a shift last May in 2013. Granted this is the most at “peace of mind” I have been in YEARS but something in me is missing. And I can’t put my finger on it. I feel sorta out of touch with my body. Not feelings or emotionally, but literally my body. When I step on stage, it may look to others that I am completely in tact. Perfectly aligned and connected to my voice and body but sadly that is not the case. So where is she? Where is the Brittney that has confidence in her abilities higher than the sky can go? Where is the Brittney that takes over a room when she walks in without even speaking so much as a word? Where is she?!

And no, I don’t mean I am “lost”… but I feel like my (taking a line from Austin Powers)… my mojo is gone. The spunk, the sass. And I miss her…I miss being at my best.

Prayers going up….


Brittney

Thursday, November 20, 2014

ATL Reflection (Part III): The Big Picture.

November 20, 2014: ATL Reflection (Part III): The Big Picture.

Taking yourself to the next step is the way I look at how I am progressing forward. It’s funny how with people and relationships we always pose the question “how can we take this to the next step?” or “are we ready for the next step”? What is the NEXT STEP for yourself? On your personal journey, spiritually and professionally, where are you trying to go? While down in Atlanta, I asked myself that. Those 20 hours total on the road was some of the best “me” time I have had in years. Why? Because it was just me and nothing else. Just the road and my thoughts.

If you really know me, you will know how important education is to me. I respect it and I want the highest degree possible in what I love to do. For the past two years, I have sought out on my journey to get my Masters. And let me tell you…the ride itself has been just as altering as if I were in a program. Growing up, I had parents who pushed me hard, but I pushed myself harder. Both my parents didn’t have very much education but they had their own. Owned their house, nice cars, vacations, you name it. But I saw the sacrifices they endured to get there. Me seeking out my Masters degree will be one of the greatest sacrifices of my life. I know it will. Sacrifice? Yeah.

Your average MFA program is about 2 to 3 years and it is a FULL-TIME commitment. So naturally I will be out of the “acting” game for a while. However during that time I will be gaining and developing the finesse of a professional working actor. I will be acquiring techniques that in the long run will not only benefit MY career but the lives of others that I will go on to teach and inspire in the years to come. My true artistry won’t be revealed until years down the line when I am funding and running my own non-profit for Youth Cultural Enrichment. YES! I love to act. I am a performer, through and through. But somewhere over the course of the past few years I have become, what most will call, a humanitarian. My bigger purpose is to give back. NO I am not trying to sound like Miss America, but I am maturing into the woman I always hoped I’d be.

Brit

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

ATL Reflection (Part II): The Audition.

November 19, 2014: ATL Reflection (Part II): The Audition.

See, I am starting to tear up already… and NO, not because it was traumatic or anything like that, but because…I learned a lot about myself over a short amount of time. So this past weekend while I was down in GA, I was auditioning for MFA programs. The first on my list this year was UGA: University of Georgia. Can’t really call it a “beautiful” campus because the night before it was the Georgia VS Auburn game and the campus was fucked! Like, I had red solo cups meeting me at my car door. (Laughs) But nevertheless, this program was very different from all the others, and I could tell right off the bat because the MFA auditions were an ALL-DAY thing. Not just a 4 minute audition, a brief interview, and then SWOOSH—you are on your way. NO you spent a good 6 or so hours with the main facility and staff of the program. How cool, right? And to top it off, there were only 4! 4 people who were auditioning, so it was definitely more one-on-one interaction and individual appraisal.

The audition went…well. I am just getting over a cold and my voice wasn’t up to “par” but nevertheless it was a good audition. It was broken into a 30 to 40 minute workshop and they got to see us in our bodies and use our voices, etc. Went well! I knew I was gonna kill that part! I am an actor that is in their body at all times! Then we had the auditions and the interview—which I knew I would be okay at because…I have personality for days! And to my assumption, I nailed the interview! I was completely and 100% Brittney. Very proud of myself on that note.

There’s a BUT in there, isn’t it? Yep! So I talked to them about my big picture: where I see myself as an artist growing into. And they loved it; however, they then turned around and said “We are trying to create Actors, not teachers”…and BOOM locked eyes with me directly! Well shit! Right?!?  So right there, I realized something…

As desperately as I want to continue and develop my acting techniques and abilities. As much as I want to further my education…I am also looking for a program that will be a FIT for me as well. And maybe that is what I was missing last year. Why…”divine intervention” keep me from getting into any program or whatever. I wasn’t thinking about what will best benefit me, I was just thinking about finally get that degree. Sooo as much I enjoyed my process with UGA, I still have to access are they a good fit for me? The next step in their process is submitting an application to their Theatre Department and from there I will find out if I am selected…so we shall see.

Stay tuned for PART III and the conclusion to my ATL adventure….later!


Brit

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

ATL Reflection (Part I): Independent.

November 18, 2014: ATL Reflection (Part 1): Independent.

The strength it takes to go after something that doesn't have a clear and defined path is truly a remarkable feat. Any artist aiming to make a living creating and presenting art are by far some of the craziest people to grace the planet. Not only is our work “successful” based on the subjectivity of others, but we still have to create it to please ourselves. Phew. The journey of an Artist is a rough yet rewarding one.
This past weekend, I got to be in the presence of a true path maker. I have known my friend for over 5 years now and she always finds a way to amaze me. She is an Independent Artist: creating and defining her own path by any means it takes. Through sacrifices, through tears, through diligence, through it all. It is a beautiful thing to witness. She is currently in Atlanta pursuing the career path of an Actress! And I couldn’t be more proud of her. Not only is she my sister in spirit but in artistry.
Actresses Brittney S. Harris and Kristen Lingham
Sometimes you have to let it all go and just depend on yourself. I think the generational shift comes when youth and young adults depend on each other for everything. And not just each other but…depend on technology and social media and whatever. Phew—I am telling you! I have much respect for an Artist that lives with the bare minimums and just the art. Now I am not saying not to have any amenities, but I am talking about prioritizing your amenities.

I have said it to her numerous times and I am saying it again, I am so proud of you Kristen. Keep up what you are doing… I am so blessed to have crossed paths with you at lil ol’ ODU!

So…all that being said I can wait to reveal to you WHY I was in Atlanta…it is truly an eye opening visit. Be on the lookout for Part II.

Here is something to take with you for the rest of your day: Aim to be the “I” in Independent.
  
Brit

Tuesday, November 11, 2014

Slow the F**K Down

November 11, 2014- Slow the F**K Down

So let me just put it out there:  what is so wrong with taking things slow? Like…letting things ruminate on their own and manifest into something great? Now don't get me wrong I don't think that is the correct approach to EVERY situation,  but in the case of life-shifting events or occurrences, I believe it is the best thing to do. For the sake of yourself and both parties. Where is she going with this? What I am trying to say is that I have some time to finally reflect on a very recent situation that left me a little…confused. Yeah, confused is the word I will use. I was confused because I didn't see things manifest as fast as the other party perceived. Sometimes as an Artist or in any stage in your career, you have to prioritize. Sometimes things arise in your life to take place and let that "place" grow over time. And in this particular situation…it was not the time for a solid relationship of any sort. 

I have been here before, my friends. I have been caught up between other people and their feelings for too long. Have you ever had someone in your corner and soon as you say something they don't like or agree with, they spend all their time guilting you into thinking one way or trying to shift your thoughts? I am not saying that has just happened, but it HAS happened to me. … … Not anymore. I am aligning some great things up in my life right now and the place where I need to be and who I need to be with is ME. Think about Brittney in the fullest sense. 

I have made a lot of adjustments lately. Pushed some people out of my life who were  bringing me down, reaching out to people like i never have before…and I have found a strength in truly being able to have someone's back. It feels so damn good to be going after my dreams STILL after the year I have had. After the life I have had really. (smiles) It's funny I have always tried to downplay my pain. What I have been through. Why? Because I always knew in the back of my mind there was someone who has been through worse. You feel me? It hasn't been until recently that I have found people who let me explore my pain and let…it… go.

All I had to do was sllllloooooowwww down and breathe. Take it one day at a time. No need to rush.

Brit

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

What's My Type?

November 5, 2014- What’s My Type?

Have you just ever purposefully did something COMPLETELY out of your comfort zone? I mean just because? It has a remarkable outcome, I must admit. Of course, sometimes it is a rude awakening no less, but overall you learn something quite wholesome about yourself. As a performer, I love to play against my “type”. Type meaning what I would traditionally be cast as for a role or part.
I will never forget when I was a sophomore in high school and I took my first Acting for the Camera class and our second day assignment was to sit in a circle and one by one we went around typecasting each other into roles.  -_-  Harsh right? Exactly and it is funny because as I felt the circle closing in on me…I already knew the answer. I didn’t fit in. And wouldn’t you know?? The class had a hard time placing me in a type. The teacher, who to me is a complete crock, simply put it “sometimes the best people in a scene are the people in the background” What the fuck! Lol… I know and I have to admit to this day that moment sometimes does pop into my head. Especially when I see a casting notice come up asking for a “sexy, alluring type” or “friendly, girl next door” or even…just a leading lady. I get all knotted up thinking about where I fit in this industry.
Of course I must be nuts because I went to still pursue acting full-time and lo and behold…I still have never landed a lead. LOL…but I know my talent and drive level speaks volumes. At least to me. So while I am not “pigeon holed” into a type or whatever, I am enjoying exploring my range. Trying out different roles…something new and different. Why? Because I can really push and see more. I am still getting used to the fact that I am not what you call an “ingénue” or leading lady, but I can bring more than that.
The worlds of theatre versus the world of film are sometimes the funniest pair of best friends. They both stress the importance of talent, skill, and blah… but the truth is LOOKS still holds much precedence over most casting decisions. At least with theatre, you can explore the range against physical type but all in all, why is that looks are so important to a character or a role? Granted, ones appearance does dictate how some may interact with a person, but in the end don’t the manner in which they act matter more? That is seriously the conundrum of being a performer. Am I getting this role because I DESERVE it or because I LOOK like the part? I fit the “type”.

Hmmm…just gives you something to think about…

Brit

Friday, October 31, 2014

Phew!

Phew!: A Reflection

Well I am rounding out another month.  By far, the most interesting month of the year. October 2014 will never be forgotten and now…on to the next one. November holds a lot of chips for me as an Actor and Humanitarian. I wish I could tell you more details but unfortunately I can't but…what I would really love is for your blessings and support. 

Every day I am learning that I am getting wiser by the minute… and just because you are wise does not mean that you are “smart”…( I think I am pretty smart ;) But moreso, being wise means being aware. Knowing what you want to go after and then GOING after it. What makes one smart is realizing your growth and potential.



My work-life situation is FINALLY at a balance. I am learning new and intriguing skills and techniques that will propel me in to the future. The future of what holds at the end of my academic journey as an Actor. I have many aspirations but one of the biggest ones is: Being a part of something bigger than myself. And my friends, the journey just truly kicked off. Not only am I facing my fears and anxiety and going after my academic dreams again, I have successful learned the skill of writing grants! Yes, I am officially a Grant Writer and not only that… I am pretty damn good at it! ;)

So I am looking forward to the day when I put my skills to good use towards my own organization and projects. So raise your glasses and salute! November 2014 will be just as good as October…and I looking forward to the outcomes!

Brit

Monday, October 27, 2014

The Wait.

October 27, 2014- The Wait.

This past weekend…what can I say other than I learned something rather interesting about myself. I am not afraid to feel what I want and need to feel. Sometime we spend so much time over analyzing things or even ourselves but the truth is we just need to accept things and people for who they are. 

 This weekend, I realized that I have been driven about and towards the wrong goals for a long time… and I believe that this epiphany is imperative to my growth as an Actor. I have standards. Personal standards, relationship standards…etc. and it is time to lay those down and not buckle. I had the privilege of seeing one of my good friends get married this weekend. Phew, and am I a hopeless romantic or what? I am telling you…I was bawling my eyes out. And not only at the sight of seeing her so damn happy, but at the simple fact that I can say I want that.

So can an artist be in love with their craft and be in love? Can it be done? I think it can but it will take the right type of person and I have to be in the right state of mind and reason to receive it. I guess what I am trying to say is…for the first time in my life, I honestly can say I am looking forward to the wait. Being patient and letting things naturally take its course. Granted going after love versus going after something that you love, to me, are TWO totally different things and this case, I am ready to be more proactive in my career and less caught up in the whole “finding” love thing. I am telling you society has this way of making you feel less than adequate because you haven’t done this by a certain age or that, but the truth is…SCREW THE WORLD! Sorry for the brashness but it is the truth. Things will happen in its right time… and I am looking forward to the wait.

Because…right now I am being groomed for something great.

Peace.

Brittney


Tuesday, October 21, 2014

Finding Yourself Through Your Craft pt. 2

October 21, 2014- Finding Yourself Through Your Craft pt. 2

Another Discovery

Is it odd that I feel more comfortable performing in front of strangers than in front of people I actually know? Well I know that fact holds true to other artists as well, but strangely enough I have trust issues “in real life” but not on stage. I completely trust my partner and myself solely on stage like my life depended on it. But once the curtain is drawn, I am timid and inquisitive of almost every little thing. Crazy huh? Say I am dating the actor playing my opposite, I would be so into him and the role that I won’t even begin to think of my own insecurities but once cut is CALLED--- boom! 

 What is that about? Perhaps one can say that you can leave it all on set or on stage, but really what is it…BEFORE I MOVE ON, I would like for everyone to notice something. A woman just ACTUALLY admitted to having trust issues…I know, I know! Go ahead give me a pat on the back. (smiles) But I am seriously, I have finally admitted something that I have spent 3 failed relationships, two failed friendships, and a plethora of sleepless nights denying…OUT LOUD. I HAVE TRUST ISSUES!! Ha, ha! And I am working on it! Super excited about that discovery….alrighty back to the blog…

But what it is all about is learning yourself THROUGH your craft. I have finally taken on an acting coach AFTER three years out of professional training. And I have to say, I was nervous at first. Granted there is nothing PRIVATE about being an actor but moreso, trust someone with my tools. To me, it is like trusting someone with my heart. I have given it to many and only a few have deserved it. So getting older has shown me that not everyone has my best interest at heart…and startlingly it is getting harder and harder to find those who truly care about me…and by me I mean my tools: spirit, mind, body, and voice.

But hey! Maybe I should start looking at life as though it was a play: “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players”--- As You Like It, ACT II, Scene VII.

Hi-5 Shakespeare!


Brit

Monday, October 20, 2014

Finding Yourself Through Your Craft pt. 1

October 20, 2014- Finding Yourself Through Your Craft pt. 1

It is like this unspoken rule that by a “certain” age you are suppose to understand yourself through and through. You are supposed to know yourself and understand why you are the way that you are and say the things that you say…blah. Blah. Bullshit! I call “B.S.” on the whole thing. Why? Because every day is a constant discovery. Well for myself, at least. I learn every day what boundaries I can push my body towards. For example, I have an upper respiratory infection at the moment. Which has resulted in the worst possible outcome for me as an actor: losing my voice. 

I have written about that before…losing my voice. Nevertheless, instead of trying to wallow in the slumps of being sick, I decided to pull a “mind over matter” and push thru it. Herb it up, water, teas, etc… and fight through it. I have to admit, at first, it worked! I felt more energized and alert. But slowly what I wasn’t doing is listening to my body. It was screaming to get some rest. And not like sleep but to rest your tools. So in the end, I sucked it up, went to the docs, and got some meds! Woot…

See through this odd sickness that I am going through I actually learned something about me through my craft. I learned that your tools, just like your mind and spirit, need a rest as well. Now I don’t care if I was 30 and I discovered this about myself or I was 15 and I learned this…it doesn’t matter when you learn something as long as you don’t stop learning.

Brit

Friday, October 10, 2014

Wall.

October 10, 2014- Wall.

As an Artist you must be open to new experiences and new ideas. That is how we stay fresh and in tuned with our emotions and feelings. Being open and being an "open book" are too different things. Sometimes as an Actor I have to be sure not to bring "Brittney" to every single character. Yes, facets of me are fine and actually preferred in most circumstances but for the most part you have to be able to bring to life what is true to that character. Not what "YOU" think but how your character thinks and feels. You get me? 

Nevertheless, let me ease into my point. The other evening I was watching one of my favorite pastors on television named Joel Osteen. And he talked about people who keep up a wall. Trust me…this goes back to my original point of being "open" vs  being an "open book". So like I was saying he spoke on putting up a wall. Now what has been drilled in you for over 20 years of your life may differentiate between what was instilled in me. My mother basically told me to ALWAYS keep a guard up. Trust people who earned your trust not because you feel obligated to "trust" them. On the other hand, once I delved into the real world: college, taxes, drinking, etc…I realized that…they were people who were determined to get through my wall. People telling me that "you are only hurting yourself staying blocked up like that". So here I was…split.

So that evening listening to Joel, I knew exactly what he was going to say: " It never benefitted anyone to stay guarded up". Right?… WRONG. And that flipped the script to me. Joel spoke on the fact that we need to learn to keep our walls up to protect our spirits. He didn't mean it perpetually, but we have to be able to guard our spirit and our minds. Why? Because they are people who steal your energy. I can speak on two individuals RIGHT NOW who I still recovering from…because I was an open book and all they were was just…open. Open to listen and open to take….and right now I am learning to take that power back.

I am not saying to go out here and not trust, but what I am saying is that "wall" we have up…MAY NOT necessarily be a bad thing. At all. Shoot, who knows? Maybe if I would have kept it up longer…or sooner then perhaps…I wouldn't have ever lost sight of the bigger picture. 

That was more of a vent than a blog. Enjoy.


Brit

FB: https://www.facebook.com/ActressBrittneySHarris

Thursday, October 9, 2014

Labeled.

October 11th, 2014- Labeled.

So what is so wrong about having…a label? Having an identifier? When did “sameness” become SO desirable? I think people are so obsessed with trying to “blend in” that they forget that we are supposed to be individuals. We are supposed to have features that can be “indentified” and set us apart and make us unique. And I have a very personal opinion about this because, you know, people are like “I don’t want to be labeled as ‘gay’ or “I don’t want to labeled as ‘African-American’” or as this or that. But the thing is: YOU are who you are. So why NOT be identified by that?? Take ownership of it! Hell, be proud!

 I am not saying that is all that you are, but that is a part of you. And you say that people are supposed to accept you, then you need to learn to accept those things about yourself. And that is the truth. I…I… personally feel like people are trying to be so sweet and not offend anybody anymore and that they would rather just…blend in. And that is not the way things are SUPPOSED to be.

I was watching a commentary on CNN about the interview Oprah did with Raven Symone earlier this week and...it was interesting,  to say the very least. I am sure you all know about the spark of controversy that arose because of her [Raven] comment about not wanting to be "labeled" and all that and she goes to say that she doesn't know where her roots go to. Or how deep they run...

Hmm...

Well, why not? So many of our other cultures in this country and around the world take so much pride and honor in knowing their history. Where they come from...and she is so blatantly confessed that she does not know...and frankly, I stand to wonder does she care? Do any of us care? I feel like sometimes our history, and I am speaking from the African-American experience, is so troubled and painful and...just plain misconstrued that I am a little...nervous to see how far my roots go. I don't think I am ready to learn about that part of myself yet, but I would never carry on like it is not of importance to me.

Needless to say,  I have no problem in embracing what I look like and who I am...HOWEVER what I will not stand for are the stereotypes assumed about my "identifiers". BIG DIFFERENCE.

Thoughts?

Brit