In the performing arts field, passion and dedication is the fuel. An artist’s individuality makes them stand out. To thrive in the field, artists often look for advice from seasoned artists.
Recently, New York Art Life had the privilege of interviewing the exceptionally talented Katherine Pound. She has a diverse repertoire that includes standout roles such as Anne in Anne of Green Gables, Elle Woods in Legally Blonde, Ida Strauss in Titanic, and Cinderella in Into the Woods. Her powerful performances make her stand out.
Most recently, Katherine charmed viewers as Mayor Matilda in All Shook Up. Katherine has a talent of bringing complex characters to life. She also has impressive accolades, including multiple first-place finishes in prestigious music festivals. Her journey speaks of her commitment to excellence in the performing arts. Through her experiences, Katherine shared five invaluable pieces of advice for aspiring performers.
- Embrace Your Uniqueness
Katherine’s first piece of advice is to embrace your uniqueness. In a field where competition is fierce, it is essential for artists to recognize what makes them distinct. An artist should celebrate his uniqueness. “Every artist has something special to offer, and it’s crucial to celebrate what makes you different,” she emphasizes. Katherine highlights the importance of not attempting to fit into a mold. Additionally, she played as Anne in Anne of Green Gables. In this role, it tells you not to conform to societal expectations. Also, don’t ever conform to industry standards. She encourages performers to discover their authentic voice. This authenticity enhances the quality of performances. It allows artists to connect more profoundly with their audiences. By letting their true selves shine through, performers can create memorable experiences. These experiences linger long after the curtain falls. Katherine believes that this authenticity truly resonates with audiences.
- Commit to Continuous Learning
Katherine’s second piece of advice is to commit to continuous learning. There is always an opportunity for growth. “Take classes, attend workshops, and seek feedback from peers and mentors,” she advises. This commitment to self-improvement is vital for any artist aspiring to make a mark in the industry.
Katherine has performed as Elle in the production Legally Blonde. This show tells you to have grit and hardwork. Every opportunity to expand one’s skill set can lead to significant advancements in performance quality. Continuously be into vocal training, acting workshops, or dance lessons. Katherine’s own journey reflects her ethos. She has consistently sought out new learning experiences. This dedication not only enhances abilities but also keeps the passion for the craft alive. By approaching the career as a continuous learning experience, performers can stay relevant and inspired. At the same time, performers also cultivate a diverse portfolio that showcases their versatility.
- Develop Resilience
In the competitive world of performing arts, resilience is key. Playing Ida Straus in Titanic, Katherine has embodied resilience in the role. Katherine also encourages aspiring performers to develop resilience. The path is often fraught with challenges and rejections. “The performing arts can be tough, and rejection is part of the journey,” she reminds us. Building a thick skin and viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than failures is essential for long-term success. Katherine emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals who uplift during difficult times. With the right people, artists are reminded of their worth and potential. This network of encouragement can make a significant difference when facing challenges. By fostering resilience, performers can cultivate a mindset that embraces challenges and learns from them. This ultimately shapes their careers in positive ways.
- Cultivate a Strong Work Ethic
Katherine’s fourth piece of advice centers around the necessity of a strong work ethic. “Success in the performing arts often comes down to persistence and dedication,” she notes. In Into The Woods, Katherine has played as Cinderella. This role teaches one to make the most out of situations you’re situated in. Plus, artists must be prepared to put in the hard work. Hard work involves long hours of rehearsal and learning new materials. It is also important to do networking within the industry. The effort invested in honing one’s craft pays dividends in the long run. This helps to build a reputation as a reliable and committed professional. Katherine’s own experiences reflect this dedication. She has consistently demonstrated the willingness to go the extra mile to achieve her artistic goals. By cultivating a strong work ethic, performers position themselves as serious contenders in the industry.
- Nurture Your Passion
Finally, Katherine passionately advocates for the importance of nurturing one’s passion. “Always remind yourself why you fell in love with the arts in the first place,” she advises. This reminder is vital for maintaining enthusiasm and joy in the work. By seeking out projects and roles that inspire them, artists can keep their passion alive. Moreover, this infuses their performances with genuine energy. As Katherine played as Mayor Matilda in All Shook Up, she embodied a character who has joy in pursuing their passion in life. Katherine believes that when performers bring authentic enthusiasm to their work, it enriches the overall experience. Importantly, she reminds us that the journey is just as significant as the destination. Enjoying every moment of the artistic process is essential for long-term fulfillment and success in the performing arts.
Katherine Pound’s insights serve as a guide for up-and-coming performers. Her advice acts as a framework for rising artists in navigating the performing arts scene. It is important for up-and-coming performers to carry the wisdom of those before them. It is crucial for rising artists to learn and get inspired by those who have trodden this path before. With Katherine’s Insights, the next generation will shine brightly in their own right. Her words of wisdom serve as a beacon of hope. She encourages artists to pursue their dreams with unwavering dedication.
