October 🤍✨

October kicks off an exciting time for most people. Yes, of course, October is known for Halloween, all it’s spooky traditions and slightly colder weather (if us Floridians get lucky enough). But for me, October is officially the start of the holiday season!  Those “spooky” movies and treats turn into thanksgiving decorations and overstuffing ourselves with turkey, which  turns into the smell of pine and ends in traditional holiday celebrations with those you love. It’s just three consecutive months filled with love, celebrating old memories while simultaneously making new ones, and the most delicious food!  As a true South Floridian, born, raised (and still never left) it takes more of an effort to really get into the holiday spirit. The calendar is the sole reason we know a season is changing and a holiday is coming, our year-round warm weather gives us zero indication of a seasonal change. 

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The Highs and Lows of Audition Season

Theater has officially made its comeback since the pandemic and that means auditions are in full swing. This is what every actor, singer, dancer and director has been waiting for… including me. I was ready to give it my ALL at these auditions and I did… but that doesn’t mean it was easy. This audition season was probably the hardest one in a very long time. The highs and lows of audition season are just part of the industry. One moment you can feel so confident walking out of an audition room. The other moment you can be crying in your car questioning your worth for not getting cast. 

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Comfort in the Constants

JULY- one of the hottest months of the year in Florida that marks the middle of the Summer, tan-skinned, a break from school, and many beach Days. For many people, I am sure July brings some anxiety just by the sole fact that it is included in the Hurricane Season, while also being a month that brings people joy due to the Hallmark channel playing Holiday movies all month long to celebrate the manmade “Christmas in July”. For me, July has become a big month over the years, especially July 2022. This is not for any reason in particular or a month that marked significant change, but a month that recognizes a lot of constants in my life- and celebrates them.

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Transitioning

The word transition is one with many meanings. A word that can be used positively or negatively. A word that can mark a great time in one’s life, or a time of stress, confusion and even loss. A word that can be synonymous with change, making it a common occurrence- for many of us, anyways.

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Reviews… We Love To Hate Them

It’s just another show day as I sit in my dressing room. Our room is filled with laughter and music as we get ready for our show. It’s one hour before show time and emotions are high. We are in the middle of a run and I feel really good about my performance and show so far. Our stage manager calls five minutes to sound check, then SUDDENLY, someone yells, “REVIEWS ARE IN!” Anxiety, excitement, and fear are the three emotions that come to mind. Did they LIKE me? Did they HATE me? Did they NOTICE me? I think to myself… oh gosh, this is my first big lead and these reviews could make or break me. What if I get a horrible review, will I ever be cast again? Or am I finally going to be recognized for all of my hard work? Should I read this before my show? Probably not the best idea because it might mess with my performance… but one little peek won’t hurt. 

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One Year Later

I guess it’s true what they say, time really does FLY when you are having fun. 

As I sit here and try to reflect on the past year of South Florida Theater Magazine and life in general, I have trouble wrapping my head around the fact that it really has been a full year.

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Wigs vs. Natural Hair in Theater

Welcome to my first official “Off The Record” blog, written by me, a fellow actress and friend. This blog will provide a free space for actors to share their thoughts and opinions about the theater industry. Each month there will be a question or topic posted on my personal instagram (@jessie_dez) where actors can anonymously take part while having their identities protected. As an actress myself, I want to give my theater community a place of no judgment and no matter what your opinion is, just know I will understand where you’re coming from. Just as you confide in me, I will confide in you and if you’re still skeptical then let me earn your trust. Again, this is a safe place for all of  YOU, my lovely theater community.  

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