Sela Caldwell Reflects on ‘More Light’ Experience

My experience as a member of the More Light cast has been a journey, to say the least. From the first workshop audition, to the paper cranes being thrown in the air, I have been learning, growing and challenging myself as an actor.

Rehearsals every Wednesday were the highlights of my week. Sure, rehearsals were difficult. Yes, at the end of rehearsal, I would be tired. Yes, I would spend hours analysing my script, memorizing lines, unlocking my character, practicing choreography and splitting up lines between the three actors of ‘More Light’. But I wouldn’t have put in all those hours of hard work if I didn’t love it.

The aspect of performing detailed choreography in the round and sharing a character with two other talented actors was daunting, at first. However, after many rehearsals, I quickly picked up the choreography and, with the help of Ms Rochester, Ms Cunliffe and the cast, we worked through challenges.

Time flew by, and soon enough it was show night. It was our big night, our one shot. That night, all our hard work paid off. The show was a success, that the whole cast is extremely proud of. But it’s the memories the audience didn’t see that really made this experience wonderful: Laughing as we got ready together, quoting lines in everyday life, comparing makeup fails, then helping each other with makeup and costumes, bringing in breakfast at Saturday rehearsal, and the hugs, smiles and pride that was on our faces backstage after our performance.

Through this amazing opportunity, I have met friends who I never knew I would even say ‘hi’ to in passing. I have a deeper appreciation for theatre than I did before. I am so privileged that I got to take part in such a complex, beautiful piece of theatre. I’m grateful that I went out of my comfort zone. I’m grateful that I played a difficult character. I’m grateful that I had to work especially hard for this. Because now I can walk away knowing that I have accomplished something that I didn’t even know I could do.

Sela Caldwell