Updating My Profile, Showreel Success & Going Back To Shooting Arrows!

Hello world! Welcome back to another blog. To say it was also the week of Mental Health Awareness Week, it didn’t half have its challenges, with my workout being one of them as you can see below. So without further ado, here is what I got up to on the week commencing 12th May 2025:

Professional:

Actors Pro Expo Seminars:

This week I listened to 2 of seminars. The first one was with the author of The Independent Actor, where she read extracts from her book and gave her tips and tricks as to staying in the game. Very insightful and whilst it’s information I’ve heard before, it’s good to see someone else giving that information but in a different format. I also listened to a seminar on how to do 3 simple things to help get to where you want to go. It was a lot to take in, but it’s more or less what I’ve been told again as again, but with a different persons point of view. Whilst part of me was feeling like I didn’t need to go through it, there was also a part of me where I had it listen to it, as I needed to get those thoughts in again and again to help keep that muscle growing. And there were many quotes she gave us, one of which I shall mention at the end of the blog on the lesson I learnt this week. 

Spotlight Profile Update:

This week I managed to update my spotlight profile, adding in my day player self tapes and my voice clips of my accents and languages with the help of a friend from my acting class. This I’m proud of myself, and fingers crossed this will help me open some more doors for some opportunities where CDs will want to look at those skills. 

Content Filming:

This week I managed to get the last of my content filmed for my latest sketch. As I’m writing this it’s currently in the editing process. But by the next weekly highlights, it’ll be in my socials for you all to see! 

Recall Prep:

This week I did some more preparation for my recall. At this point it’s mainly looking through my notes plus adding the odd bit I missed. Yes I need to dive deep but I can’t force myself to write notes down if nothing springs to mind to avoid not complicating things. So on q recall day itself my sim is to relax, have fun, and know that I was picked for a reason. 

Act On This Podcast:

This week I delved into the world of showreels with showreel producer Chris Stone. Yes I may have listened to numerous showreel surgeries, but these sessions are good as not only does it give you a refresher on what make a showreel stand out, but I also learn something new every time these come up, and this one featured the order of a reel. I’ll definitely bare this in mind when I come to update it again and also when to replace a scene. But all in all it was a really good session to watch! 

Coronation Street:

This week I watched the show from 30th April and 2nd May. It all kicked off at Julie’s Bingo Bangorama, as Christina’s secrets were finally exposed after Daisy overheard her and Dom talking about the next steps. And it’s safe to say that after some heartbreaking goodbyes and Jenny and Daniel (who lashed out at Ken after he gave him some home truths), pleading with her to stay, Daisy definitely left in style. And good luck to Charlotte Jordan for whatever comes her way next. Whatever happens, I know that this is only the beginning. But that wasn't the only drama that was happening on the cobbles. Carla and Lisa have managed to discover that Betsy was milking her injury as it got better, Carla didn't react the best, but Lisa decided to use the tough approach. And Betsy's reason as to why she still faked it was understandable, and whilst it gave opposing views to Carla and Lisa, they both managed to be there for her when Tracy came in knocking on her door, saying that she'll take it to court. The Websters are also feeling the strain. First with Abi and Carl still feeling awkward following that kiss (although I feel based on the body language, Abi seems to be somewhat attracted to him), and then Debbie, still thinking that splitting up with Ronnie is for the best, is deep down heartbroken following her Dementia diagnosis. And Ronnie snapping at Dee Dee for helping out with Laila wasn't helping. But she may start to become keen on looking after Laila, but after seeing spoilers, there may be more challenges to come when James returns. Also, whilst Julie was trying to stick up for Eileen, it led to a conversation about George and Eileen's compatibility, and even though they are back on track, something tells me that Eileen and Julie's trip to the lake will end in tears. And Gary striking up a friendship with Mick seemed to unsettle Maria, who was then further upset when Gary made an offer on the builders yard without talking to her. But after Mick stepped in to Liam's defence when two friends of Brody were picking on him, he wormed his way into his good books. But convincing Liam to take a shot of vodka is, I feel, the start of what is about to happen after seeing spoilers (which I feel would be hard to watch). I also watched the show from 5th May. Julie was the main talk, as after lots of videos and a request for her and Eileen to go to the lakes, it marked the end of Julie Carp. And well done Katy Cavanagh-Jupe for playing such a brilliant role that is Julie. But her exit left a devastating impact on the residents. Brian lost the love of his life, and after letting Eileen down, George saw the video of Julie making it clear on her and George’s relationship. But he was able to redeem himself by not deleting the videos. But Todd was right to suspect that Julie may have taken her own life after noticing a viral clue in the video she made. And there was more drama on the cobbles. Todd got a phone call from Danielle following Theo’s whereabouts, and after Theo got into a fight with Mick, Billy was able to intervene, where he and Todd learnt more about Theo’s past and his link to conversion therapy being the reason as to why he kept his sexuality a secret for so long. There’s also still tension between Ronnie and Debbie, and Ronnie himself was concerned for Dee Dee who after admitting she likes taking care of Laila, was devastated on making the decision to let her go with James. Always putting others before herself is why people like her so much, although in this case it might be a difficult situation for her. And finally following daisys dramatic exit, Jenny is just wallowing in self pity as always. But we all need someone like Rita to help us snap out of these situations we get ourselves in. 

Hollyoaks:

This week saw emotional support for one resident, one resident realising that a big operation can make a life saving difference, and two residents in danger when they try to get out of this trap they have been under. Monday's episode was quite possibly the most emotional one yet. Ro's plan to runaway with Nina (who thankfully was a tea person) fell through, saying to Kathleen-angel that he wants all the noise to stop is a sign that he was hitting rock bottom. And whilst Diane went to the support group and learnt more about the reality of being trans, she was straight on to find Ro after Kathleen-Angel rings her. But I’m glad Ro spoke to someone on the phone who opened up about everything, and it looks like things are on the up. And well done to Ava Webster, Alex Fletcher and Nick pickard for that powerful performance, it was definitely one to remember! But there was also drama outside of the Hutchinson clan. Marie managed to find out why Arlo was bullying Ro all this time (as there’s always a reason for people’s actions) and my guesses were right. And also Dillon turned up out of the blue, where Lucas revealed his brain tumour diagnosis to him, where in then Dillon mentioned a holiday to Egypt, one of the places Lucas really wanted to see. But I have a feeling that it’s all part of a bigger plan. Tuesdays episode saw Diane contacting Matt in order to help Ro even more. And Matt was able to be honest about her past and why she set up the group that’s different from all the others. I think that this has helped Ro a lot, and it seems that banks and Diane are back on track after opening up about tori (who I feel I know who the real dad is), but the end of a phone call sparked concern for Diane (and I’ll get onto the context of the phone call in a moment). Freddie’s plans to propose to Mercedes fell through when at first Prince dropped the ring down the drain, and then she said no. But I wonder why that is? And finally Ste’s opinion on Lucas going to Egypt is obvious knowing that something can happen at any given moment. But Frankie’s plan to make some extra cash for the trip fell flat when he poisoned him, and Rex told them the effect it’ll have in the long term. But Dillon’s choice that Ste gave is a tough one, and Frankie’s warning from grace has impacted Darren and Nancy, and I think this is the start of them discovering what’s really going on. Finally, Wednesday's episode saw Darren come for Rex for answers, and thankfully dodger intervened, where Rex revealed why he was trying to stop Frankie and Dillon, talking about his experience which was actually quite sad to hear. But dodger is determined to get his granddaughter back when Rex reveals that DI banks has her. But Grace has taken the situation into their own hands, and I dread to think what will happen to Dillon and Frankie. But that’s not the only drama happening in the village. Lucas was heartbroken when Dillon cancelled the trip (which Ste played a part in but it was for his own good in the long run), but after a chat with Myra and thinking back to Ste’s psychosis, he decided to undergo the surgery, knowing that it’s his best chance of fighting back the tumour. And after chatting with Nancy about the situation at the Osborne’s, Freddie then realised why Mercedes said no to his proposal. This only made them stronger, and fingers crossed the cancer goes completely for them to tie the knot, as we need some happiness in this village. 

Eastenders:

This week saw one resident lashing out, one resident admitting their struggles, and a scandal that shook the village. Mondays episode saw Jimmy coming home, but also Ian still getting threatening messages from Cindy still, which also signifies why Peter says she hurts those she loves. We also saw Gina try to be there for Harry, and when teddy and Nicola tried once again to talked to him, he was so close to lashing out, but I’m glad he didn’t. As it would not only scare them, but also Barney and Kojo. And whilst Gina admitted to jay that she was the one who told them about Harry, I wonder if she’ll admit the truth to him. Ross, following a success of getting a job, also tried to tell Avani Joel’s true motives following him and Vicki catching them in the act, but it doesn’t go unnoticed by Suki. And the biggest drama of all was the slater's holiday plans, with Jean refusing to go due to Stacey’s mental wellbeing. And even though Harvey was trying to help, Lily still wasn’t keen, and I think Harvey straight talking as to why this tension needs to stop is due to frustration and also desperation to get out of the situation. But after missing the holiday slot, his plans on telling Jean everything were thwarted after she prepped camping but at home, and then Jean proposing to him. Oh dear! Now what will he do? Tuesdays episode saw Harry getting the wrong signals from Gina, and even though she feels the same I think she knew that starting a relationship whilst he’s caught up about Shireen is a bad idea, but a chat from Billy made the paid go back on good terms. And Barney is still upset with Nicola and Teddy for not revealing the full truth. Also Suki is on the warpath after questioning Avani. And after some advice from Eve, she decided to grill Ross on the truth. Even though it wasn’t the whole truth, she’s obviously not pleased about half of the truth, and let’s just say that you do not want to mess with Suki Panesar, and I think Ross felt that wrath. And auger jeans proposal in the last episode, it did make Harvey squirm. And kathy just felt more guilty after jean confided in her about the situation and also her past. But eventually jean and Harvey agreed that married was off the cards, but they’d have a long engagement. Bur Kat seemed like something was off, and she was right as even though she didn’t see it herself, Cindy (who’s already blackmailing Ian on wanting everything), had caught Kathy and Harvey in the act. Wednesdays episode saw Suki getting more suspicious of what Avani is really hiding after bad mouthing Nugget on his languages, and after revealing to the family what happened, Ravi was the first to take a swipe and boy it got intense. Although it certainly didn’t help the situation. But eventually Suki used the calmer approach and Avani eventually managed to open up on why she felt the need to go to that step with Joel, which was quite emotional. But Joel deep down is only going to get darker. Kim is also trying to get Linda back in the dating game, but the only thing on her mind at the moment is Phil’s well-being and if he and Sharon are back on. But the biggest drama had to be Cindy, as she and Kathy point scoring was just the start, and after Ian made a heartfelt confession on wanting to prove that he can do something without Cindy, Kathy made a new deal which could spell the end of the dilemma. But turning up at the bead wetting was only going to cause more drama. And when the announcement of the engagement came, the video Cindy previously “deleted” came back, and all I can say is the aftermath of it will just be even more dramatic. And I was right, as Thursday's episode saw the aftermath of the scandal. During this, Harvey, Jean and Kathy gave off their views of how it came to play, and I’m going to say something that’s abit controversial but it’s just my view. I do get why Harvey was frustrated as Jean pushed him out, forgetting he was grieving too and forgot that part of a relationship is helping each other through grief, therefore needed comfort. But snogging and getting into bed with Kathy wasn’t the right call. And I also get why Jean wanted Harvey to stay as the family loves him and doesn't want to go through any more heartbreak. But equally I get Harvey’s needs and wants. But he could’ve waited at least a few weeks for the dust to settle before snogging the face off of Kathy again. Controversial I know, but that’s just my take on it.

XO Kitty:

This week I managed to finish the rest of season 1 of this brilliant show. Episode 8 “LFG” saw the gang go on a camping trip which Madison played a big part in linking to Korean star Ocean Park. There was a lovely moment where even though there’s still the case of finding out the link between Jina and Professor Lee, Kitty’s gesture to Alex was really sweet. Kitty was also frustrated with Dae for not being honest about what’s going on, but Yuri’s explanation as to why she faked a relationship with Dae made Kitty realise how grateful she is for her family. But with the help of her friend Margot, she managed to reach Julianna, and it looks as though her relationship with Dae is getting back to how it should be. But something tells me that her feelings for Yuri haven’t gone away. But there was other drama ahead. Florian’s drama linking to his parents is not what Q wanted to hear, but I hope he can do everything he can to help him. And Min ho realising he wants more than a hook up meant the end of the relationship with him and madison. The penultimate episode “SNAFU” saw the gang help kitty with her finals after both Kitty and Dae explain their reasons why they need to help her, but it obviously didn’t come with the drama. Min ho and Dae spot Florian suspected of cheating, but when Q finds out he was actually cheating on his exams, it’s definitely put a strain on their relationship due to Q’s athlete principles of not cheating. Alex was also on the verge of leaving following confessing to Jina that he’s her biological son, and it did leave tension with Yuri after she overheard everything. And good on Yuri for standing up to Jina about how she really felt and ado her sexuality, which in turn later on made Jina realise the error of her ways after her husband made a comment similar to what she says to Yuri. Kitty’s finals were also not the only things on her mind, as her feelings for Yuri and the secret about Alex started to boil over, and whilst Yuri helps her with the traditional Korean fan dance (which looks very cool and something I want to learn), Jina blurting out the secret was I feel the last straw. And Min ho saving Kitty made Dae realise she’s had feelings for someone else, but not actually for Min ho (although I feel he’s been acting defensive due to his growing feelings for her)… The last episode saw Kitty revealing the full truth about who she’s got feelings for, and it chain of events spelled the time at KISS coming to an end. Her friendship with Q was in jeopardy after making a comment about Florian, but she was right when Florian ended up getting the highest mark due to his cheating, taking up Dae’s spot. And after getting expelled despite passing her finals, her plea to keep her place didn’t go to plan, although she managed to get on good terms with Jina (who mentioned why she left due to not seeing her principal crying lol), who then in turn managed to get on good terms with Yuri, who finally accepted her for who she is and also get back in touch with Juliana. Yuri in turn managed to figure out a way to keep Kitty in KISS, and just as Kitty breaks up with Dae and tries to tell Yuri her feelings, it’s obvious she’s upset by the presence of Juliana. And after reading her mum's letter where it’s revealed that kitty’s dad wasn’t her first love, min ho (who was on the same flight as Kitty to visit his mum), told kitty how he really feels. After seeing clips on Instagram I officially can’t wait to start season 2 next week. 

Joan:

The last two episodes of this true life drama had me on edge and in ways which I wasn’t expecting. The penultimate episode saw the antiques warehouse be burnt down following Joan’s arrest, and her lawyers advice to avoid a 10 year sentence is not what she wants to hear. But things get too dangerous as Boisie tries to warn her of someone linking to the IRA, where at first she thought it may be a fellow prisoner, but maybe the police woman had something to do with it. And after showing her injuries, she managed to convince Boisie to do a job in order to start a new life. And it all started when Jon began to seduce Bernard in order to keep her job, which has worked, but there was once again friction when Kelly was mentioned again. But Boisie's idea may be her last resort. And Albie's friend Paul who will help out in the heist definitely feels intimidated by Joan, which even Boisie wasn’t impressed by due to her being late. But it all linked to Kelly’s birthday, which was an emotional one at that. And with Boisie's part of the job done and Paul in, Joan had one more visit before the heist, and that was her dad, who Nancy said was ill. But we got to see why there’s so much tension between the father and daughter, and I feel Joan’s habit of stealing stemmed from that relationship. But her plan to get Kelly earlier may be her most risky and also dangerous task yet. The final episode definitely raises the stakes. Joan managed to get her plan in place following the school booking, but Val seems to get the wrong end of the stick when mentioning to Boisie of his whereabouts. The final meeting before the heist between Joan, Boisie and Paul was intense, not to mention the copper spying on Joan. And Boisie calling off the heist following his discovery of Joan taking Kelly earlier than expected led to some different views, with him stating why it may not be a good idea from Kelly’s point of view. But after he opened up about his sordid past, he was persuaded. But the heist itself didn’t go as planned, as Paul bailed out at the last minute, and I was not expecting the replacement to be Gary. That did not end well, as Boisie was shot and sadly killed as a result, leaving Albie and Gary to leave Joan to fend for herself. So she had to do the rest of the plan itself, and somehow managed to successfully get Kelly whilst pretending to be someone else. But whilst at the caravan waiting, Joan managed to realise from a picture Kelly drew and her finding the gun, that Kelly would be better off with her foster parents and Joan handing herself in, now thinking that Boisie was right. But I loved the ending when it was revealed that Joan was let out on good behaviour, and breaking the 4th wall was the perfect way to end a brilliant mini series based on one of Britain's most notorious jewel thieves. 

Amandaland:

This week I managed to finish the brilliant spin off to Motherland. The penultimate episode saw the gang go camping, but it didn’t come with drama. Anne, after talking about a lack of fun in the bedroom department got herself aroused by all the men she sees, but it did get her into abit of trouble. Johannes managed to get his camping routes out, and after Amanda swapped the camper van, her situation with using the public toilets was abit awkward. There was also a interesting situation with the tent when JJ had a big tent and Mal had a little one, but Mal got abit emotional when Ned slept in his, which made JJ proud. Fi and della's relationship came to a strain when mentioning holidays, and after confiding in Mal (who felt left out during orienteering and his phone running out of battery), I don’t blame them for getting high. But Johannes getting bitten by a snake then prompts him to move in with Amanda until his bite wears off. But all I can say is, Georgie is both angry about going knowing she’ll see Darius, but then sad after she meets a cute boy seconds before she leaves. Although to be honest that’s literally me most likely lol! The final episode saw Amanda’s life looking up with Johannes following his stay after his snake bite. First the car, then Amanda deliberately seeing Johannes on her “Co-lab” and then with the help of him, planned the end of season party. But let’s just say it didn’t go to plan, as along with not getting a video of Georgie getting her award, no cava and beers left her friends in disgust. And what made it even worse was that Amanda announcing she’ll be moving in with Johannes changed everything, and Georgie certainly didn’t want to leave Morten, especially when getting matching tattoos which Amanda, Fi and Della were not happy about. But there were also moments of reflection, as Della was finally honest with Fi on the business, and after hearing the way he spoke to Anne, Amanda decided to break things off with Johannes, something which Felicity is proud of. But as we end a series and now waiting for the next one, I wonder if anything will happen between Amanda and Mal? As based on his looks, stating that she’s way too good for Johannes, something tells me that his feelings for her will grow.

Personal:

War Horse:

This week in honour to celebrate my week off from my day job (meaning more time to focus on my acting career), I went to watch the brilliant stage show War Horse. I’m putting this down as both personal and professional as whilst I needed some me time, it’s important for me to also see shows as a way of keeping my reason as to why I got into the industry alive. After seeing this show before in 2019, this did not disappoint. And other than crying at least 5 times, I thoroughly enjoyed it. A review of the show will be out in the next few weeks, if not sooner, so keep your eyes peeled.

Exercise:

This week I did my usual gym routine along with some yoga, but I only did one spout of exercise on the bike. But it was good, as I managed to get to the 10k mark in 12mins 46secs. I feel that this was the quickest time I got to this mark, and please see below how much I did when I got to the 15k mark as well. 

Archery:

This week I managed to go back to my first Archery class since the winter. Wow, it was needed. Shooting some arrows, breathing in the fresh air. It was definitely well needed. And with my upcoming Recall next week, this definitely helped break prepping it nicely whilst also doing something to help me de-stress from it. 

Cooking:

This week I decided to cook ramen. But I was abit unsure if the paste I used in the broth, as they didn’t have what I wanted initially. But it was all about trial and error, and it actually turned out to be quite nice.

Darts:

This week I had 3 practices of my darts, one of which was during some content filming where I managed to get tops. So at least I managed to get the highest double along with many doubles and trebles as seen below.

Premier League.

This week the premier league came to Aberdeen. Gerwyn Price suffered from the 9 dart curse, and the best game had to be with the two Luke’s, showing why they are the top two players in the world. And with Luke Littler officially top of the league, and Nathan Aspinal winning Aberdeen, the race to play offs week is going to be intense. 

The Piano:

This week we saw the piano come to Newcastle, with Jon and Mika not only struggling for choice yet again, but they also had some help from a furry friend in the form of Sharky the dog. Roger did a brilliant opening with his version of “Handbags and Glandrags”, and Chloe did a beautiful song she wrote herself. Alex did a niche version of “Johnny b. Goode”, and tram driver Reuben did a beautiful Chopin piece, and I also discovered what an arpeggio is (and you’ll have to watch the episode itself so you can find out what it is). And the covers kept coming and coming. A choir did a beautiful rendition to “the greatest showman” with the help of their piano teacher (who explained why music is so important in schools), and Belema did a genre which I don’t think has been on the piano before. But angel… my god he is the definition of a trouper. After battling two types of cancer in his life, his reason for playing the piano became so much deeper during a rendition of “You Say”. Yes there were mistakes but after learning to be free and not be too restrictive, it made it more interesting. Nadeem did a beautiful piece of “Experience” after being open about his midlife crisis and how the piano has helped his work/life balance, and Carmen did a beautiful version of an Elvis Presley classic. But Diana was the star of the show, proving that after loosing her husband, you’re never too old to do something new, and when she got picked for the final concert, it nearly had me in tears, knowing how much it meant to her.

I also watched the last episode before the hard work began, and that was when we started off with Nadia, who also trained to be a pilot, hoping to inspire young girls whilst doing her own composition. We also had a version of "Come Fly With Me" by Alex, and Fiona, who actually received an MBE from the Queen herself for services to music and teaching, did a tricky piece by Beethoven, but it definitely didn't phase her. Brian also played a piece of music called "Love Story" and why it was so close to home, and a piece of video where a boyfriend and girlfriend were reunited at the airport was beautiful to see. Taro also did a brilliant and catchy cover to The Kinks, and Nemesia did a heartwarming Louis Armstrong tribute to her late dad. Josiah also did a piece of Chopin but with a boppy tune to it, and after seeing his apprenticeship to help support his family, I've learnt from him and his wife that like his apprenticeship and work, Jazz is a piece of music where everything is all over the place, but with classical, its calm and helps put the brakes on his busy life. And finally, Chapman, who I saw on Gogglebox, broke barriers in his life to show how the power of music can help you through challenging times, and I can see why the Goggleboxers reacted to them. And Edison brought a beautiful end to the search by bringing abit of his hometown Brazil with him as the sun set. And like with Diana, when Josiah was picked for the final concert, seeing his family soo happy for him (especially his daughter, even though she may not have a clue what's going on) it nearly left me in tears again. And with the line up complete, the trailer for the next episode looked like there may be more challenges to come before the big event...

Gogglebox:

This week was filled with more stuff from the popular TV critics, but not before there were some funny moments in between, which include Ellie and Izzi discussing holidays and how Ellie tells her that she and Nat have the code words "Virgin Ears" for when they're with Ezra, Amira being mistaken for someone else at the gym, and Dave and Shirley prepping for a holiday. Michael considered a new dog with abit of unease from Sally and excitement from Jake and Harry, and the Sidiqui's had another interesting Eggs-perience. Somehow, the two men made it first to their checkpoint in "Race Across The World" despite having to stop and do some of the jobs the locals had to do daily, and "Virgin Island", one member had to face their fear of touching with an interesting technique. The Four Seasons is something which is both serious and funny, and the explosion saved Steve Carrells character by the bell, and "Made In Chelsea" saw rumours on who's been saying what romance wise again. Chapman on "The Piano" was a popular kid for the Goggleboxers, and in "Prue Leith's Cotswold Kitchen", I think they all had mixed opinions on her Devilled Kidneys on toast. Finally, "I Kissed A Boy" introduced the secret garden where not only was there drama with the bombshell and the OOG falling off, but kissing in front of everyone was not sitting well with most of them, and a new Pope was announced on BBC Breakfast.

Hard Times:

This week some of the difficult moments would be having to cancel an audition at the last minute. Yes it’s a shame but feeling the mental capacity I was having already, and with my National Youth Theatre REP recall to think about, I knew where my loyalties were. I also couldn’t take part in the voice one conference (which I completely forgot about). Yes it would help me with learning more about the voiceover industry but not if it’s going to make me go out of pocket. Thankfully with gravy for the brain still there where I can join for a month and then if I’m wanting to I can cancel after that month, I know there’s a more affordable and accessible option. Finally, there was a family crisis which whilst I can’t say, we were all abit worried. But thankfully things are looking up, but it does make you realise that you never know which day is your last.  

What have I learnt this week? You never know when it might be your last day on earth. So you might as well live like it's your last day.

See you soon for another blog. Until next time...

This is The Autistic Actress signing off :)