THIS week we catch up with performer Rachael Gray from Anita Scott\u2019s SMACS Performing Arts Group – whose mascot characters and co. will be popping up all around town at this year\u2019s Easter Festival.<\/p>\n
What motivated you to become a performer?<\/strong><\/p>\n Growing up I was a dancer, primarily doing ballet.<\/p>\n It was something I did for fun and I never thought I\u2019d still be performing so many years later.<\/p>\n Through dancing, I started doing the Easter Parade with SMACs, first wearing costumes, and eventually got put in a mascot (character) and I was hooked.<\/p>\n The freedom and fun that comes with performing was something that I didn\u2019t realise I missed.<\/p>\n Nowadays I\u2019m a dancer, puppet handler and mascot character including Reindeers, Easter Bunnies and many, many more.<\/p>\n How would you describe your multiple skills?<\/strong><\/p>\n It\u2019s hard to describe as what we do is so varied, but my main objective is to entertain others and have fun.<\/p>\n I guess some skills I pride myself on is being able to read body language of different people, and tailor my approach and how I act.<\/p>\n Kids especially are so different and many kids are terrified of mascots, and others will run straight up for a hug.<\/p>\n It\u2019s about reading body language quickly and responding appropriately in order to give every person the best experience we can.<\/p>\n It\u2019s the best feeling when you spend some time interacting and building rapport with a shy child and it ends with a wave, high five or hug.<\/p>\n Which other performers inspire you and why?<\/strong><\/p>\n I get inspired by a range of different people, particularly fellow performers.<\/p>\n Our group encompasses people with a huge depth of experience so I\u2019m always learning and inspired by them.<\/p>\n Every performance is a chance to improve and learn and we\u2019re always striving to get better.<\/p>\n Have you had any mentors over your journey so far?<\/strong><\/p>\n Anita has been a huge mentor over the years – her commitment to entertaining people at such a huge range of events is inspiring.<\/p>\n She goes out of her way to provide a safe, fun and enjoyable environment for us to perform at our best.<\/p>\n What are some highlights you have from your time as a performer?<\/strong><\/p>\n There are so many highlights over the years, from appearing on Sunrise, performing at The Melbourne Children\u2019s Christmas party, and The Easter Festival and parades in Bendigo.<\/p>\n I love interacting with people during Easter, dancing and taking photos and becoming a part of families\u2019 Easter traditions.<\/p>\n The parades are a chance to let loose, run down the street, dance and high five the crowds.<\/p>\n There are also a lot of fond memories with the group of performers – we always have fun, and they are some of the best people I know.<\/p>\n We come from all walks of life, different ages and experiences and I would not have crossed paths with them if it wasn\u2019t for performing.<\/p>\n