Glastonbury 2010 - Hot, Loud, Expensive

I would never normally go to something like Glastonbury. Its not because I don't enjoy camping, or because I cant go without a shower for more than 5 minutes. I guess I just don't like enough modern music to warrant me going.

Still, people say its one thing you have to do once. So that's me sorted

Anyway, I must confess that I did enjoy myself. This was in no small part down the the fantastic team I worked with up there. Every working day was a pleasure, and every evening around the campfire was a joy!


Glastonbury - Aims and Objectives (a brief outline)

Aim: To work as part of a larger team to perform specially made plays to the public highlighting issues regarding bullying, as well as facilitating the games and exercises used in the workshops afterwards

Objectives:

• Create a positive working environment with my fellow performers
• Perform the plays with a positive and vibrant attitude
• Maintain a high level of personal discipline and good mental attitude to the work
• Stay cool and hydrated! (most important)

When I was given the opportunity to work at Glastonbury, I didn’t really know what to expect. I had never even considered it before, but I still took it in my stride. From the first day we were on site, I could tell that the team was going to be a good one. I worked hard to create the all-important working atmosphere by establishing a good connection with my peers. I pride myself on my upbeat nature, my determination and my commitment to any project I an involved it, and this was no exception. The first night around the campfire gave us the makings of a bond of friendship that would see us through the hectic week ahead.

My next objective was to work and perform to a high standard. This was a constant battle with the heat, which caused tempers to fray and energy levels to plummet. However, I used my naturally upbeat personality to always try and keep the motivation high. I always strived to be the best I could to create a good example for others to try and emulate. With the strength and quality of work from my peers, it made me even more motivated to produce my best. All of this constantly pushed me on, allowing me to achieve my objective in my view. The quality of the response from the audience gives me confidence to say that I achieved a high standard of work.

The third objective required that I focus on being the best I know I can be. As my next objective states, the group were constantly fighting the heat. It is easy for people to snap under the pressure of the hard work and long days. However, I know that I have the ability to remain disciplined under adverse conditions. Amongst my better qualities is my determination to produce my best under pressure. I am capable of producing high levels of self motivation and discipline in situations like at Glastonbury. I can confidently say that, with the feedback I received from our director Andy, I achieved this objective. The high level of work achieved over the week serves to back me up on my analysis.

The final objective played a large part in achieving my previous objectives. It is hard to describe the oppressive and at times unbearable heat. The effect it has on those who are unprepared is extraordinary. However, I was prepared to deal with this. By always staying hydrated with a bottle of water to hand, I not only remained focused and energetic, but also felt better in general due to my greatly increased water intake.

In conclusion, this was one of the most amazing experiences that I am likely to be offered. In the end, it was important to balance a good laugh with hard work, a balance I feel I achieved throughout. It was a privilege and an honour to work alongside Andy and the team. Perhaps the proof of my high standard of work can be proved by the email I received from Andy:

“As a valuable member of last years Actionwork team at the festival
I wanted to give you the chance of being part of the 2011 team as well”

This for me really proves that I made a successful impression to Andy. I feel that I have done myself proud and learned a lot. All-in-all, a resounding success!

As a side note, while the pictures may look like we just had fun all the time, you must remember that its a perk of being a performer - you always get to have fun!