Comments on: ‘Tis the season for Rejection

By: Grant Moxom

Grant Moxom — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 01:26:11 +0000

As a uni boy I’m still not particularily worried about rejection – Being rejected is usually a GOOD thing as it lets me focus on my study.
That said, I recently did a show (Witness in the Wall) which applied for a bajillion different funding places, but got nothing. We also struggled with audiences (getting a maximum of a bit over 1/4 on one night, and averaging at about 6 adults and a concession). That said – we still broke even and had a great time!
If you want to make a work – find an enthusiastic crew, bake some cakes to sell, find the really cheap rehearsal spaces, and just do it! That way you get the feedback the grant committee didn’t give you. You can also then say “Take that grant committee – I was RIGHT!” or “Oh… now I see what they meant”, either way – you become in control, and it’s fun! =D

That said, I AM an idealistic uni student, so I’m sure there are reasons this is difficult etc. I just haven’t bothered thinking about these

By: Nicholas Pickard

Nicholas Pickard — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 00:41:22 +0000

Rejection, schmection.

The alumni of rejects from NIDA is one which is proud. You’ll find many of us in successful careers littered throughout all of the arts industries.

Writers, directors, actors… In fact one could almost say that, odd-on, it’s better not to be accepted.

By: Chloe

Chloe — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 02:24:15 +0000

Fine words, Augusta! Having just received a rejection of a grant application yesterday, it was great to be introduced to the metaphor of the ‘eco-system’ of the arts. And yes, the four times I unsuccessfully auditioned for NIDA I was told they have a policy of not giving any feedback. This may, however, be a good thing. Receiving non-constructive feedback can be more difficult than receiving none. I’m off to enjoy the sunshine now. x