Ring light, check. Tripod, check. Dedicated self-tape room, check. Finding peers to be your FaceTime reader while doing a socially distant self-tape, check. All of these adjustments for our “new normal.”
Yes, it’s new, but I don’t think it’s normal. We, as artists, storytellers and content creators, thrive on collaboration and human, in-person connection. We feed off our collective energy, and that’s truly when inspiration strikes.
I don’t know about you, but audition waiting rooms have always been one of my favorite places. You’re excited and nervous, but also thankful to see your friends and peers. Telling each other to break legs and rooting for our friends, because if we don’t get it, damn it, one of our friends better. Catching up in the parking lot after; connecting with people who know exactly what we are going through. We all “get it” in a way others simply can’t.
So, how do we adjust to this new normal? Well, I’d say we are adapting better than others. Our profession has always had ebbs and flows, so when work stopped, we knew we could weather the storm. We knew to batten down the hatches, tighten our belts and mentally lock ourselves in. As restrictions and guidelines were implemented, it was a piece of cake to do them, because we are great at taking direction.
However, we are closing in on nine months of a global pandemic and economic anxiety. How do we get to the finish line as the work begins again?
This is where your union has some tools to help. In fact, it has a whole wellness section on the website; from financial to mental wellness, the list is very comprehensive.
The SAG-AFTRA Foundation has numerous programs and livestreaming events. It’s a great resource to brush up on skills and find inspiration, so that when the floodgates open (and they will), we will be ready.
The New Mexico Local is part of the Committee of Locals. This is a group of the small and mid-size locals that discuss issues that don’t always apply to the larger locals. One of our recent topics was to explore how we connect with our local members safely, without putting too much burden on our amazing and hardworking staff. It’s a complex situation, but working together, we feel confident we will get there.
Lastly, I just want to remind you what a special local we have here in the Land of Enchantment. Having worked in other markets, I can tell you that New Mexico members are some of the most generous, talented and kind performers I’ve ever met. Let’s not let this pandemic stop that. Let’s continue to show grace and be ready to show the entire industry that New Mexico is still one of the best markets to create their content and tell their stories.
Wash your hands, wear your mask and, before you know it, I’ll see you on set!
Happy holidays,
Marc Comstock
New Mexico Local President
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