Rock Bottom - Day 4

​1 producer, 5 actors, 1 director, 1 blogger – hi again! – the penultimate day of the Rock Bottom R&D.
 
In only 4 days, a group of near strangers have become a close and caring group, working towards a common goal. It is hard to deny the weight of the subject matter at hand, but even in the absence of hugs (thanks Covid) we help to uplift, support and comfort each other.
 
Today looked closely at the stories of those in the room. Our 5 actor’s own experiences of Rock Bottom: what led them to Rock Bottom, what has helped them on the path to recovery and how did they feel throughout. Director Megan guides each interview with questions that empower and enable the group to share openly and safely.
 
It is easy to notice similarities in the accounts given… “common denominators in very unique stories”. The shift from submitted material to first-hand stories from the room adds a whole other level of emotion. Asking the question: when is the right time to tell your story?
 
Yoga for Joy begins the day. Within each story it is possible to find the joy and laughter. Copious cups of tea, stretching and even a socially distanced disco dance break keep the room light and energised. The strength and sincerity within the space is evident and overwhelming at times.
 
By the end of the day, stories are exchanged and brought to life by alternate actors. All of a sudden, a whole new perspective is created, as each actor hears their own story embodied by someone else. Accents and mannerisms are interpreted and redelivered as the words that flowed from one mouth are scripted and performed by another.
 
With only one day left of the R&D it feels like a very poignant place in the process. The connection felt to each other and to the project is intense. Being a part of this process has been eye-opening and the importance of the piece has grown more apparent as the days go by.
 
Roll on day 5!
 
See you tomorrow!