One of the most enduring and powerful qualities of theater, or any artistic endeavor for that matter, is the quality of presence. With theater in particular, an audience can be brought to a collective presence in response to the actors. Likewise, one factor that can deepen an actor’s way of being is the quality of presence and attention of the audience. Arguably, an actor’s unique presence underlies our favorite performances. It is one of the primary reasons we choose, for example, to see Hamlet played by several actors over different productions. We savor the unique qualities of personal presence that different actors bring to the role. The character’s nuances and subtleties are simply reflections of the actor’s access to his or her essences and deep skills.
Mindfulness meditation, when practiced regularly cultivates many gifts intrinsic to theater artists, including the ability to cultivate presence, listening, being authentic, being relaxed as well as working more skillfully with the way that silence / speaking, and movement / stillness are interwoven.
Athena Theatre has offered the cast and crew of its productions several innovative options involving mindfulness meditation. Among these are opportunities to practice mindfulness meditation and mindful sensory activities during each production. Under guidance of Jerome J. Front, Athena Theatre’s Meditation-Instructor-in -Residence, those artists who have recurred with Athena over the past seasons have had an opportunity to gradually deepen their personal and artistic growth and artistic passion in this manner. Additionally, the artists who develop a regular mindfulness practice may reap the health benefits that the field of mind-body medicine is beginning to confirm.
All in all, the opportunities for the staff, cast and crew to practice meditation closely follows Athena Theatre’s vision to “provide a supportive and creative atmosphere …and to try new approaches” and innovative concepts.
INSTRUCTOR BIO
Jerome J. Front, M.A., M.F.T., is an experienced leader of innovative workshops and retreats, teaches meditation, and is in private-practice in Studio City. Additionally, he is an Adjunct Faculty in the Graduate School of Clinical Psychology at Pepperdine University. Jerome’s research and professional consultation focuses on how Meditative and Contemplative Disciplines can be creatively utilized in various professions. Additionally, Jerome has worked extensively as an actor — his stage work includes the renowned Steppenwolf Theatre in Chicago. He has acted on top television shows including: General Hospital, Life Goes On, and as the character Dr. Swain on the Emmy-winning series Picket Fences, and as Dr. Alan Brackup on E.R. Drawing on his artistic and clinical backgrounds, he has designed programs for Athena Theatre to cultivate mindful creativity, deep personal presence and well-being. More information on meditation programs for the general public is available at: SystemsWorkshops.com