Episode 69: Vanessa Sears; Shedding A Skin

In this episode, Vanessa opens up about her upcoming solo show Shedding a Skin and we get into all the things that come with it: identity, storytelling, and what it means to truly be seen on stage. We talk about stage fright (yes, even the pros get it), the wild ride of doing a show solo, and how accents can shape a whole character. Vanessa also shares her journey as an actor, what directing has taught her, and how bold casting choices can change the game in theatre. At the heart of it all? Community, connection, and showing up for each other as artists. 

GET YOUR TICKETS FOR SHEDDING A SKIN HERE: https://www.showpass.com/shedding-a-skin/

DESCRIPTION OF SHEDDING A SKIN:
On the 15th floor of a London tower block, a revolution takes place. Myah has ejected herself from a corporate hellscape only to crash-land in the spare room of an elder named Mildred—an evasive auntie with laminated house rules and hidden wounds. But healing takes many shapes, and sometimes it looks like sneaking your roommate’s duckanoo.

Shedding a Skin is a one-woman buddy comedy for the heartbroken—a series of exquisitely observed, quietly radical scenes that offers a hand to those feeling the weight of the world. It’s a play about finding kindness in unexpected places; about understanding what our elders can teach us; it’s new skin honouring old. It’s a play about joy, healing and protest. Drop your baggage at the door. Connection is resistance.

Amanda Wilkin’s Shedding a Skin is the 2020 winner of Soho Theatre’s acclaimed Verity Bargate Award. The play premiered at Soho Theatre, London, in June 2021.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to 'Shedding a Skin'
02:45 The Challenges of a Solo Show
06:00 Exploring Accents and Identity
08:47 The Importance of Collaboration
11:40 Facing Fears in Performance
14:56 The Journey to Becoming an Actor
20:51 Career Milestones and Reflections
27:35 Favorite Roles and Projects
29:51 Reflections on Broadway Experiences
31:00 The Importance of Continuous Learning
34:10 The Art of Text Analysis
36:10 Exploring Unique Theatre Spaces
38:52 The Shift to Directing
41:09 The Relevance of Art in Today's World
44:16 Casting and Representation in Theatre
45:56 The Journey of Auditions and Self-Discovery
50:10 Advice to Younger Self