Rest your head.

Sometimes, the things that we have to do in our daily lives can be very stressful. Thats. why we have to take some time to unwind, relax, have some tea and just be grateful for another day.

Real Illusion

Homelessness

Mental Illness

Poverty

Hunger

Street Life

This is the reality for many people living in Downtown Toronto. People who wait by the street corner collecting any change and eating what they can afford with barley a decent coat on. People who stand outside the doors of a soup kitchen waiting to eat there first meal of the day. I witnessed this behavior and my eyes were opened to the realities of life. Yesterday, I went on a trip to the Ossington and Queen area of Downtown Toronto, were the biggest mental health hospital in Ontario is being built. Apart of our assignment was to capture poverty through an artistic medium. I used photography. Through photograph, I am creating a story of street life through the eyes of struggling humans. What caught my attention was walking down Queen street and noticing a long line up of people waiting outside the St. Clair Soup Kitchen. Someone shouted 'Come on' with great frustration. While I captured that moment, it touched me that this many people were going hungry and I am blessed with food whenever I need it. Interaction was also a big factor. There was interaction happening between street people and those they knew. While my friends and I were walking down on Queen street we spoke to someone who shares his poetry for free. He shared his latest poem and donations were appreciated. My group and I then, witnessed him use the money he made to buy himself something to eat. Overall, this trip was exciting and informative. It gave me a chance to break out of this 'bubble' and be apart of the action around me. I was able to gain greater understanding and sympathy for hose living on the streets and inspired me to be a bigger humanitarian.

Level UP

If you dont like something change it; if you can't change it,

change the way you think about it.

~ Mary Engelbreit

Good change is something that we should all inspire to experience. I know that i would never want to be stuck at the same level; i would want to grow and become something better. I have been thinking alot about change and seeing it within myself. I feel like i have been stuck in the same spot spiritually and have not moved at all. For me, my religion is very important to me, in fact it is ranked first. The day, i was given a revelation of my life was on a beautiful afternoon alongside my mother. We decided to have one of those famous 'mother, daughter' talks. My eyes were opened up to many realizations that i never really took the time to get into my soul and spirit about. The fact of the matter is, if my mom had not spoken to me, i would not feel the difference that i feel know. Sometimes, you need someone to snap you into reality and that was a case for me. Looking back, i realize that there was a divine purpose why God allowed us to have the talk. I believe that by me growing spiritually, everything else will be blessed with a new sense of growth. I have always been able to take criticism, even from people that i love; which has helped me in my growing process. My mother told me alot of things that i needed to hear and work on in order to be a better person- a better Christian. A better Christian is what i am going to be. A better Christian is what i am.

Classic

Tragedies are difficult to deal with and often times we feel sympathy for those who go through them. It is battle; though, it is apart of life. Many people around us are dealing with situations that you are not aware of or can comprehend with. These lives can consist of the girl that sits beside you in class or the famous icon of our century. The world is not perfect and neither are the lives within it. I was given an acting method assignment to portray the life of a tragic famous icon. My goal is to to recreate a scene of their life as if the person was there in person sharing their story. I am to become that figure; the problem is that i just haven chosen one as yet. I am finding it quite difficult. My first choice was Marilyn Monroe. I felt that i had enough information to give off a strong performance; however, being able to look like her would be quite a challenge; which is apart of the assignment. Overall, i have read up on many people; but, i am not feeling confident.

I want to chose i figure that makes me feel confident in myself. I mainly want someone who lived during the 'classic Hollywood.' I really like the style and the era and the icons are very interesting. I do believe in not giving up. I will keep trying because i know that i will come across someone that will be just right for me. With that being said, i am open to any suggestions. If you are reading this and you have an idea, let me know! :)

Filled to be emptied.

I am unique, one of a kind.

I have a destiny, a calling.

I am Rochelle

I recently stumbled upon a quote that a friend of mine posted on her Facebook status. It gave an incredible 'aha' moment and was quite beautiful. It made me realize that I am given a calling, a divine purpose in life that given all my talents I am to use it to create an impact on the world and within myself. The quote states that 'When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say, "I used everything you gave me." This is what I inspire to do, use every talent, ability and opportunity that the lord gives me. I am blessed with so many abilities that many people are not aware of, and maybe I am not aware of. What I dislike greatly is when I see people limit themselves and hide their talent. It could be that I do not like that because as a Christian I was raised with the understanding of using what god gave you. Despite the fact that I know to use my gifts, it was a reminder to never lose sight of that.God took his time to form me and create me into something beautiful and I want to share that beauty with the world. My goal in life is to use every gift that I have and not let it pass me by. I want to be able to say exactly or on the lines of "I used everything you gave me." I know for sure that God would be proud of me and I would be proud of myself.

Pencil's have erasers

I wish I was perfect.

But Im not perfect.

When we go through struggles we feel as if life is bringing us down. We feel as if there is nothing to smile about and that life is simply 'a living hell'. Perfection is what many people want, but nobody has. Today, soul visionary productions and myself performed what is called Monologues in Motion which is a performance of different pieces of monologues put together to create one whole monologue. Each group had individual themes; but, my group's hook was imperfection. The desire to be perfect. We all may feel at different times that, I wish I was perfect; I certainly do. One thing I have learned is that it is alright to aim to be perfect; keeping in mind that regardless not everything is going to go the way we plan. Though I believe we could have done better overall in performance, the message was strong. We ended with Simple plan's Perfect. The words within the song are very powerful if you take the time to read it. Remember,

Ideals are like stars; you will not succeed in touching them with your hands. But like the seafaring man on the desert of waters, you choose them as your guides, and following them you will reach your destiny. ~Carl Schurz, address, Faneuil Hall, Boston, 1859

Silent time, with a hint of music

Organic

Informative

Powerful

Acting Professionally, is what I want to do. It is my dream. As apart of our class, we were giving a book called Acting Professionally written by Robert Cohen in which he shares the raw facts about careers in acting. Reading this book, I was given a great deal of information that I never expected. What I enjoy about the book is its upfront approach to sharing these facts. Cohen tells you straight up what you need to know; therefore, if you are truly devoted to the professional, you wouldn't be scared off;however, you will keep reading. His goal is not to with hold you from this career, but to inform you of what you are getting into. Let's face it. Many people may not be aware of what they need to know. Thats why this book is created to prepare you for acting professionally. I feel very knowledgeable and versatile knowing this information. I have never felt more prepared to be a professional actress before. I have no idea there were so many different aspects to consider. What gave me a great organic, thought provoking moment was reading the section on Developing A Mature Viewpoint. It emphasized on how as actors we need to learn how to deal with adult realities; we will not be holding the hands of others to be able to get to where we want to go in life while still holding onto the childlike innocence required as an artist. Therefore, Cohen describes what a mature viewpoint is and the great need for developing that viewpoint. It's taking charge of your life and being accountable for your decisions and actions as well as remaining positive. Along with Developing a Mature Viewpoint I also found Chapter 2: What You Will Need as very much the same impact. It touched on talent, looks, training, experience, contacts and luck (just a few of many). It allowed me to think deeper and really allowed myself to look around me and make connections to what I have seen in the industry. Overall, this book was an interesting and helpful read for me as an aspiring actress. I believe that me along with Soul Visionary Productions(my company class) will be impacted greatly and go out in the world prepared and strong. It is a great book to keep in your library and in your mind.

There's more

I often over-looked the popular television program America's Next Top Model; however, reading a recent article on theactingroom.com called 5 Things That You Can Learn From America's Next Top Model , gave me new insight on the show. I used to enjoy this show greatly and found it an interesting view of aspiring models with potential careers in the industry. There was always a bit cattiness and gossiping during typical modeling adventures; but that's what they said made good television. Looking at the program now, I see that it's a great example of the industry level. Kristen Tretbar who wrote and published this article on her website states that "I still find myself oddly addicted to ANTM!Why? Well, i think it's because it reminds me so much of the whole experience of acting professionally. Also, i am constantly impressed with the dedication Tyra Banks shows the young women in her show." Indeed, Tyra Banks does exude compassion and support and is a great role model. She strongly believes in helping future models understand the truth and reality of making it within the model industry. Kristen Tretbar also made the brilliant connection of actors having an interest for modeling. Personally, I find this to be true about myself. I am an actress and I love modeling on a catwalk and for photography. I always like to stand out and make an impact when I enter a room. I completely agree with Tretbar. With this being said, I would like to share the 5 Things That You Can Learn From America's Next Top Model.

1) Be yourself and let your personality shine through; do not try to be perfect. Tyra Banks always encourages the models to bring their personality to judging and show some energy. Do not let nerves bring you down and always look attentive, bright and happy regardless of how you may feel ( sad, tired, sick, etc). Remember the casting director is looking for someone who is most comfortable in their own skin and acting chops! Thats what they will feel attracted too.

2) Humility is very important. Take correction with grace, be attentive and willing to make changes. Always maintain professionalism and leave that ego at the door.

3) Do not gossip you will appear insecure and immature. Bad attitude will only ensure that you will never be hired by directors or producers( word will spread of your behavior). In this industry, show some support and respect for your coworkers.Instead, try to maintain a classy behavior, you will never go wrong.

4) Being on time is crucial in the industry and taken very seriously. In ANTM, the girls are often eliminated when they are late during their go-see's. The modeling industry and acting industry are very expensive. When you are late, money is lost in production. This is where the saying "time equals money" comes into play. Aim to be an half an hour to an hour early and you are safe.

5) When you are working with an industry level person do some research on who they are. When you do research on successful people in the industry you become more knowledgeable and versatile. Tretbar states that 'I will always remember the scene in Cycle 5 I think it was, where the girls are brought to London, and they knew nothing about who Twiggy was, or what the "Carnaby Street Fashion Scene" did for fashion in the 1960's.' Whether it may be a director, producer, writer, etc, know who they are. Read their past projects, future projects, accomplishments and bios. Also, show this person that you are very honored to meet them and that you are ready to learn something from them.

This article gave me great insight.

Seed

Humans can create their own beauty. Humans create art. I was re-reading an article called The Vision Thing by Karen Kondazian interviewing Dr.Robert Maurer. It was recommended to me by my mentor. The first time I read the article was an organic, memorable moment for me. I am an artist and the article touches on the important fact that artists are role models. As well as the clever connection that 'theater is people sitting in the dark watching people in the light talking about what it means to be human(Maurer).' That was among the many key phrases within the article that grabbed my attention and were very powerful. I learned alot about the actors soul and essence as well as their calling. I was also reminded that humans have the ability to create their own happiness regardless of the adversities that one may go through. When I think about the Mother Theresa's, Nelson Mandela's and Christopher Reeves of the world i realize that the reason why we are so impressed with their strength, inspiration and work is because throughout their pain they can still find a way to create their own beauty. And just like them, artists have the ability to create their own beauty in an environment that does not exists. Saying phrases such as, What am i happy about? What's great about today? What do i love about being an actor? Are helpful ways for us to create happiness and positive thinking rather than bringing ourselves done.

When Christopher Reeves was interviewed by Barbara Walters he mentioned that though he went through all that pain and suffering, he realized how lucky he really was. Reeves was a positive thinker and knew he had the potential to control and shift the emotional experiences no matter what the adversities may be. Art is the same way, the ability to shift the perception of things. Overall, this article awakens my thoughts every time i read it. It is an organic experience all the time. There is a seed that has been placed within me so that i can grow and inspire myself and others around me. I can create that beauty. I am creating it right now.

Better Human

Be grateful

That is the key to growing farther in life. To be grateful means that you respect yourself enough that you can look around you and realize that some of the blessing you have, others are lacking in the world. When you are grateful, you are aware of your gifts which makes you a better human. My goal is to be a better human. That is why this Thanksgiving, i am going to make sure i give many thanks, especially to those who do not hear it enough. Sometimes people may forget to say thanks to those who do so much for them; typically parents. But, i had the realization that because your parents/guardians can be so great to catering to your needs, you seem selfish because you just expect them to be great all the time. You see, you mean well, but it is important that the person feels aware of that. My mom always taught me on gratitude. Allowing me to realize that i am blessed in many areas of my life such as good health.

Yes, i feel happy and relieved that i have these things; but it also makes me want to pray for those who do not have some or if not most of the things i may have. I also aspire for change so that whoever needs a blessing, will be tankful for it the next time around. To begin, i would like to thank god for my family (including soul visionary productions). I am so thankful to have people in my life who care about me and who i can care for. The love, the laughs, the tears and the memories will never be forgotten and i am blessed to feel happy everyday that i wake up. This thanksgiving will be a time of growth, a time that i stop complaining over little things and instead, be grateful for them.

Iconic

The essence; the vision and the soul within an actor is a powerful tool. Iconic and legendary would describe the performance of Angelina Jolie. I am an actress myself and i would categorize Jolie as one of my true inspirations for growth. Her ability to commit to a character is incredible and interesting. She is an Oscar winning actress who has been successful in many films such as Changling and Salt. I recently was watching Angelina Jolie's new film- Salt. It is by far one of favorite movies that i own. Salt is based on a women named Evelyne Salt who works for the CIA. A Russian defector accuses her of being a Russian spy. Salt goes on the run using the skills and experience that she obtained in the Soviet Union as a child to elude capture. As Salt tries to prove her innocence, doubt is casted on her motives. She is determined to discover the truth behind her identity which leaves the question remaining: Who is Sal?. The movie placed me in a moment of realism and excitement. Salt is definitely the kind of movie style that i enjoy. Jolie expressed her character well showing great strength as a women- mentally and physically. She brought real essence to her acting which made me feel every emotion that was showed. Looking at her performance i feel compelled and determined to grow at that level and beyond. She is a real icon and her movie was iconic as well.

это я (This is me)

I am an artist. I am a visionary. My name is Rochelle Erskine and i am 17 years old. I am an actress and a singer and I have a love for photography, media productions and journalism as well. I am aspiring to be a success in all these areas as well as a humanitarian. I am a very sensitive person but, i can be strong as well because of my Christian background.

I am grateful to be who i am and to have the family that i love( that includes Soul Visionary Productions). I am truly blessed and living a dream...

Live it

Growing up my mother would always tell me live one day at a time. I had so many dreams and aspirations that i would always plan for the future, but we all know that we cannot live for the future. In other words, i was missing out on my present focusing too much on the future. But what if the future does not go as far as my plans because of Gods arrival. Yesterday is gone, but tomorrow may never be mine. This being said, i have created a Bucket list of what i would like to accomplish before i meet my maker.

1. retire my parents

2. Grow stronger as a Christian( be ready for heaven)

3. Allow my mother to live with me

4. go to Ryerson university or USC and then move to LA as a successful actress, media production, singer and journalist.

5. win an Oscar

6. travel all around the world

7. buy a vacation home for my parents and me in Europe and go there with my whole family.

8. Be an humanitarian

9. Be on the cover of a magazine

10. Create my own production company

11. Buy my dream home/ design my dream home

12. Donate to numerous charities.

13. Go on tour with my family (music)

14. Write a mystery/ horror novel

15. Be a legend- an inspiration

16. Go to space

17. Learn more instruments

These are what I aspire to do before the Lord comes. Each day i live i want to make an impact. As the bible says faith without works is nothing as well as works without faith. With my faith i want to be able to impact the lives of others. I have 17 goals because the number stands for my mothers day of birth. I am incredibly close to my mom and i have seen her give and not expect or want anything. She is one of my inspirations and a wonderful women of God. I give God thanks that i have her in my life and one of my goals was for her to live with my because i cannot separate myself from her. God really uses her to speak into my life and i love having that around. God bless,

Shine

We are Soul Visionary Productions, the light within the dark theater that guides artistic souls to freedom. We are visionaries and our destiny is produce inspiration, love and greatness. We have within us the essence of the human spirit. We wish to see redemption, hope and strength within the lives of our audience. We want to leave an impact and 'be the change you want to see' Gandhi. We are Soul Visionaries. We close our eyes and reach into everything we love. We have passion, flame and fire and we hold, believe it, identify it and ensemble it. You will never leave a soul production empty.

Our acting academy class was given a branding assignment to create a media production company that reflects every member of our class. The teams were divided between girls vs. boys. Through, hard work and dedication the girls and the guys sacrificed financially and sleep wise to create a company that would be remembered for ever. Me, being on the girls team we bantered back and forth what name expressed the passion within us and the impact we want to see in the world. We wanted something unique that had never been heard before which set us back on our schedule but, we wanted to produce greatness. The name Soul Visionary was created and the meaning behind it is timeless. As artist we rely on our soul to draw emotion and believability that is what comprises the essence of the actor. Our soul is where our passion lies other than our heart. We are visionaries, we vision and create beauty. We use our imagination to build what has never existed. Dr. Robert Maurer said in the article The Vision Thing that 'successful artists are visionaries' The words soul and visionary each create beauty that together creates a powerful name and meaning. Though we realized that the name is long we know that its power is what makes it so unique. When the branding day arrived we have many special guests from previous years in the acting academy and the media industry. Both girls and guys did an amazing performance and impressed the judges. The next day, it was declared that the girls had won the branding and the beginning of Soul Visionary Productions began. Although the girls won, there were no losers. The boys were winners too. From the last two years were called StageLife Productions from previous branding. However, though our name is changed we will always be Stagelife at heart. It is a new beginning.. and we are all ready to be that guiding light, we are Soul Visionary Productions.

Conscious

The essence of acting comes from ones soul. Using emotions arising from the sub-conscious to result in our ability to fulfill our desires. An actors goal is to make his character's desires his own desires. This means that the actor has to keep his full attention on the characters desires, occupying his thoughts throughout the play. When given the character, the actor must ask the essential question; who am i? The actor also must have a believable answers for the following questions:

1. What am i doing?

2. Why am i doing it?

3. How am i doing it?

These questions help the actor better understand his/her character and is associated with the concept of determining the characters desires. The actors has to determine the desires of the character at every moment of the play and determine the actions to attain these desires successfully. It must then be performed believably. Our desires and actions may not always be known to us consciously ( to our full awareness or knowledge). In other words, we may not realize when we get nervous we tend to eat or the way we stand or play with our hair. However, when our desires and actions are sub- conscious that means that we are fully aware. Acting is willful because every desire and actions has to be determined and planed. It would be a disaster if an actor relied on sub-conscious thinking. It would be difficult for other actors to respond to the sudden realizations and improvised action. It is crucial as an actor that you do not see yourself as the actor, playing emotions that you think should be felt and rehearsed. Doing this will not give your performance believability. As an actor you must see your self as the character( for example, see yourself as the father). The actor sees himself as the father; therefore, he uses real life experiences as the father to portray believability. So , when you are happy or expressing any other emotions the audience will feel and believe that because they will feel it within themselves. This will sweep the audience into the performance of the actor. This is the beautiful essence of acting.

Famous

I had the exciting opportunity to go to So You Think you Can Dance Canada for the results show; however, what made the trip so fun and memorable was the method acting challenge we created. Each person were to take on a role different from themselves. Some people were groupies (including myself), directors, a famous artist, sick, over friendly person, etc. Our goal as a group was to draw attention to the famous artist "mickey G". Looking back on the challenge i learned alot about people. What i noticed is that if you are nice to them they will be nice to you. We were successful in making many people believe that there was a famous person who so happened to have come to the show. Based on their characters, alot of high energy was given and in the moment acting. Although, security began to get frustrated i applaud everyone for staying in their characters the whole way through.

I am proud of what we accomplished. As part of my personality, i like to review my work because always believe that i can improve in some aspect. I think that there is always a way for us to grow. We had a lot of laughs and great memories and i can not wait to go out again and do another method acting challenge.