Reflections from my TEDx Journey (Part 1 of 10)
Quick Intro:
My recent TEDx experience reminded me that I need to get back to creating a space to reflect through writing. It’s what I love. So therefore I will and I am jumping in and inviting you all on the journey. This first run of posts will be a reflection on my TEDx journey. I broke it down into 10 parts which will be released over the next few weeks.
Image Credit: Brett Deneve
1. The Theatre Spirit: Reigniting My Passion for Live Performance
The Reflection:
Participating in TEDxBuffalo was a powerful reminder of my roots in live theatre — a space where I learned the importance of presence, collaboration, and storytelling. Theatre is more than just performing; it’s about creating a shared experience that resonates deeply with an audience. The energy, the nerves, the laughter, and the collective support of fellow performers and production crew form a kind of family that leaves an indelible mark on your soul.
In theatre, we develop characters and narratives over time, much like the process of preparing for a TEDx talk. Both require vulnerability, rehearsals, feedback, and trust. The support I received from the volunteers and fellow speakers at TEDx felt like a production family, echoing the camaraderie found backstage — or rather “Behind the Canvas”.
The Supporting Data:
According to the National Endowment for the Arts, arts and cultural activities contribute over $877 billion annually to the U.S. economy, supporting 5.1 million jobs. Live performance, in particular, fuels community engagement and emotional well-being, demonstrating that the arts are not only cultural but also economic engines.
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Sources for Data and Statistics —Arts and Economic Impact
Source: National Endowment for the Arts, Arts & Economic Prosperity 5 Report (2017)
The Takeaway:
My experience reaffirmed my love for live performances and the power of shared storytelling. I look forward to more opportunities where I can thrive in the energy of a live audience, creating meaningful moments that unite and inspire us to share stories. I truly believe that we build unity through shared stories.
Let’s Collaborate!
If my journey resonates with you and you’re seeking support in storytelling, speech development, or performance, I’m here to help you find and share your authentic voice. As a dedicated creative consultant and coach, I work with individuals, organizations, and businesses to craft compelling stories, develop impactful speeches, and enhance performance skills.
I also design and facilitate customized workshops—covering digital storytelling, literary arts, and creative expression—that empower organizations and businesses to communicate with confidence and purpose. Click the button below to schedule a consultation, and let's collaborate to bring your story to life. Your story is gold—let’s make it shine.
