The desire to create is one of the deepest yearnings of the human soul.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf
‘King Caryl’ is a regular participant of our workshops. Being a leader of his own external workshops, he loses out on creativity and collaboration. Each workshop allows him to take on exterior direction and reverse his usual role. This can be powerful in allowing him to access the thoughts and processes of participants within a workshop in order to power, develop and inspire his own teachings.
What made you start wanting to attend these workshops?
Guy invited me and I came. It was an opportunity to consolidate what skills I already have and to sharpen them in a very beautiful space and platform.
What makes you keep coming back?
It wasn’t just about singing. I come from a background of comtemporary dance, ballets and modern dance forms and enjoyed the fact that there was movement. Also, creative writing, presenting etc.; to come out with creative ideas. It reignited the flame of creativity.
What do you enjoy most?
A genuine sense of creativity and individuals coming together. It’s not just about me. It’s also about being disciplined and allowing myself to be conducted as opposed to wanting to take the lead all the time. When I’m wearing my other hat, I tend to give direction. I allow myself to lose control simply because I want to have new experiences and new approaches.
How do you think this has helped in your general life?
What’s good is the fitness part. Coming from that [dance] background and doing more of the singing prior to this project was taking its toll. There’s exercise, breathing techniques, yoga and stretching, getting on the floor. You’re redefining your body. Also, your tonality and the way you use your vocals. You may be experienced in it but you’re coming at it from a different angle altogether.
What have you taken into your creative work?
I’ve been made to start from zero, taking full ownership of my work and what I do. Setting goals to work towards, and achieving them. The way that I operate, I do many things in one go so it’s reignited that passion.
What do you personally enjoy about Guy’s leadership?
What I enjoyed most was the format that was being used and the guidance that was happening. It’s not the usual approach. Removing responsibility, I’m a vehicle that needs to be remoulded. It’s a great learning curve with new experiences. And like that, everyone I teach, I give guidance too.
Red Hat Opera Workshop 