Thespians and all Their Tea: The Need for Initiation

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An Interview with a Thespian on the Need for the Rigorous Initiation Exercise

AFAS PRESS: It has been a usual practice for Thespians to have about 7 to 8 weeks of rigorous training in preparation for the initiation process. Could you elaborate on the usefulness of this practice?

THESPIAN: Good evening, and thank you for having me. So the initiation rites and the rigorous exercises are integral to our Thespian tradition. Not only that, but they also serve several purposes. They help to instill iscipline, and aid personal growth. In the long-run, it also builds a sense of friendship among all Theatre Arts students. They think it’s hard now, but they will come to appreciate it later.

AFAS PRESS: Discipline is indeed important. But could you explain exactly how the initiation rites does that?

THESPIAN: Certainly. The initiation rites are designed to challenge us—them—mentally and physically. It tests their resolve, and pushes them out of their comfort zones. If they are able to endure these challenges, they learn the value of discipline, determination, and resilience. It will also teach them that success doesn’t always come on a platter of gold. It requires persistence and hard work.
For instance, theatre doesn’t have any tolerance for lateness and during initiation, we append disciplinary measures to late coming. This will invariably teach them the importance of being early.

AFAS PRESS: Woah! That’s something. But why does it take up to seven weeks of rehearsing day and night. I mean, these students also have school activities to focus on.

THESPIAN: The daily exercises are more than just physical activities. Theatre is life and we don’t condone mistakes. It will take rehearsal upon rehearsal to achieve perfection.
As for the students’ schedule, it’s also part of their training. Apart from the fact that they knew what they were signing up for when they came to Theatre Arts department, it will also open their eyes to adulthood. They have a lot to do, but so little time. That doesn’t mean they shouldn’t get those things done.
They will survive. Like we say, nobody dies.

AFAS PRESS: How sure are we that these rigorous routines translate into your actual work as Thespians?

THESPIAN: Acting, as you may know, is not just acting. It requires immense discipline. We must be punctual, dedicated, and focused during rehearsals and performances. The rigorous initiation rites and exercises instill these qualities in us.
Out there, there a numerous productions that take months to perfect. This place is our preparation for the outside world.

AFAS PRESS: All these are great. However, I have heard of and also witnessed how cruel the initiators could be to the initiates. No mercy. How do you help the initiates deal with that? Or is that also a preparation for toxic work environments?

THESPIAN: (laughs) Of course not. Despite the surface harshness, we have a welfare department that is incredibly attentive to the needs of the initiates. They ensure their well-being, providing necessary support, counseling, and medical attention, if required. The welfare team even goes as far as providing rehearsal gears for those who don’t have or were to tired to probably clean the ones they have due to tiredness. The welfare of the initiates is a top priority, and thus should show the soft spot we actually have for them. We just want them to learn first. And maybe suffer a little. I mean, we all went through the same things.

AFAS PRESS: That’s hilarious, but I understand. It’s also great to hear that there’s a support structure in place. So do you extend this opportunity to students from other departments who might be interested in participating? And don’t they get any form of “special treatment?”

THESPIAN: Absolutely. Our doors are open to any student from another department who wishes to experience the transformative journey we undertake. Any student who joins us will receive the same level of care, respect, training, and of course the suffering as many have called it.

AFAS PRESS: Well, you have a point there. But I’d like you to share any specific experiences or transformations you’ve witnessed among the Thespians as a result of these practices?

THESPIAN: Certainly. I’ve seen incredible transformations. Many of us join as individuals, but through these rites and exercises, we become a cohesive family. Ask anyone around, Theatre Arts department is the only department you’ll see a solid camaraderie and dependenc between the seniors and their juniors. Not just because we need each other in our productions, but also because we’re all one and the same; THESPIANS.
I’ve witnessed shy individuals gaining confidence, introverts finding their voice, and leaders emerging from unexpected places. It’s inspiring to see how these practices nurture not just our acting abilities, but our character and self-belief. I, myself, am a testimony to that. Years ago, this conversation we’re having would never have taken place.

AFAS PRESS: That’s awesome. I’d have hated not to have been able to have this conversation with you. So can I imply that you believe this tradition will continue to be relevant in the future?

THESPIAN: Absolutely. In this age where distractions are abundant, this tradition serves as an anchor that reminds us of our core values. So long as there are individuals who appreciate the depth of this tradition and its impact, I am confident it will endure and continue to shape the future Thespians of our department.

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