From Apes to Stagehands: Prehistoric Mental Hacks to Survive – and Thrive – in Today’s Backstage World
Central Standard Time (CST): August 15, 2024, 2:15 - 3:15 PM
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All hours are Central Standard Time (CST) |
From Apes to Stagehands
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From Apes to Stagehands is a strategic session unravelling the evolution playbook from before the Paleolithic era to our modern, hyper-connected day. Unearth the reasons behind why humans are the way we are and grab hold of practical tools not just for surviving but for thriving in the world(s) we create and take apart daily. Drawing wisdom from evolutionary theory and connecting it to our work life, this session isn't just theory – it's about actionable insights deeply rooted in our biology for optimal well-being--both physical and mental. By the end of this lesson, attendees will understand evolutionary theory, its impact on human development and emotional regulation, and its relevant context for the entertainment industry. They will also learn practical strategies to manage their emotions when working under high pressure or long hours, as is usually the case with stagehand work. NOTE: This session will be recorded for online streaming via the CITT/ICTS Video Library (members-only). No attendee will be filmed. |
| Date, Time & Location: Thursday August 15 | 14:15 to 15:15 | Persephone Theatre - Sharfe Classroom |
| Duration: 60 mins |
| Level: General (for all) |
| Discipline: Health & Safety; Human Resources; Mental and physical health. |
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Presenter: Masha Birkby Masha Birkby is originally from Kharkiv, Ukraine and has lived in Vancouver since 1995. She has worked backstage for over two decades in every facet of live entertainment possible. Theatre, dance, magic, festivals, music, special events, corporate—a true Jack-of-all-trades, Masha has done it all, in every department. In an effort to understand why she was struggling to keep her naturally predisposed cheerfulness in the work that she loved, she stumbled upon evolutionary theory, and it all clicked. Over time, Masha developed evolution-based tools and mind hacks for herself to help lead a more peaceful and fulfilled life, even in the face of the genuine difficulties backstage workers face daily. Between production managing for BC Event Management and being a parent to an amazing teenager, she’s passionate about sharing these tools with everyone, hoping they can help you as much as they helped her. You can find her writing on the subject at TheShowMustGoOn.substack.com |
