Self-efficacy. An individual’s belief in their ability to succeed in a specific situation or accomplish a task.
Back in 2010, while taking a college psychology course, we created a small experiment. There were two different groups of adults over the age of 30 given a basic knowledge exam. Group A was told before the exam, “Most people over the age of 30 do poorly on this exam,” while Group B was told, “Most people over the age of 30 do really well on this exam.” As the test results came in, we noticed a trend: Group B scored significantly higher on the test. Many other, more official studies have shown this same thing to be true. New Year’s resolutions always seem to fade away right around the time your brain starts telling you, “I can’t really read 20 books this year.”
In my life, theater has been the place where I have noticed the power of self-efficacy more than anywhere else. When I show up to an audition, a rehearsal, or a performance very shy with a head full of “I’m going to make a fool of myself,” those doubts almost always join me on the stage. In contrast, in moments where I really believe in myself and the work put in, I tend to get the most positive feedback from crowds (laughter, cheering, kind words afterwards). That is exactly why I have been so passionate about helping other people believe in themselves!
There has been no greater joy over my six years with ASPI than watching a fellow actor’s face light up when they step onto the stage and completely own a moment. We are so thrilled this year to be offering our first-ever audition workshop for younger performers. Auditioning can be such a scary thing for people. “What if they don’t like me?” “What if my voice cracks during my song?” “What if I forget the words?” “What if I wore the wrong shirt?” Our hope during the audition workshop is to empower young actors in our area to walk into their auditions with much more confidence, so that they can achieve their highest potential. Ultimately, my hope is that the self-confidence students learn on stage at our theater translates into all of the other areas of their lives—because the first step in changing the world for the better is believing that you can.
We’re excited to share that ASPI’s first kids camp will be held on August 17th! While all spots have already been filled, we do have a waitlist started. If you’re interested in getting on the list, please call the box office at 920-826-5852.