AN INTERVIEW WITH CAILIN HOWARTH FROM THE PERFORMERS EDGE
Cailin Howarth trained as a classical singer at the The Conservatorium of Music at The University of Melbourne before performing professionally in Australia and Europe. As a performer, Cailin saw the need for skilled practitioners who understood the specific challenges of the performing arts, and subsequently returned to study psychology in order to be the change she wanted to see in the industry. Cailin has created The Performer’s Edge to support creatives and performers reach their full potential through bespoke coaching utilising best practise performance psychology.
Listen to our podcast with Cailin now.
Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do? What's your purpose?
My goal with this business is to change the way we look at wellbeing in the arts by shifting the focus away from the 'grit and bear it' approach which was taught when I was going through Music School, to an evidence based approach which takes into account the individual's needs and supports performers to reach their full potential. The Psychological side of performing is so important and yet, almost nothing is taught about this at Tertiary training institutions. I want to change this.
What is something you've learned about yourself this year?
What do you love about yourself?
I love that I have big heart. I care very deeply about those in my life and about the things that I deem important. I feel things very deeply and whilst, when those feelings are negative, I feel them very acutely, I also feel positive things very strongly which I see as a gift.
When we do reach gender equality, what does this world look like to you?
However, I fear that what society sees as women moving towards equality, actually means that women should become more like men, rather than society valuing the feminine qualities to the same extent as the masculine.
What do you believe are the behaviours that hold women back?
Not recognising their true value.
What has been your boldest move to date?
Starting my own business in an area that is fairly unknown and servicing a client base which notoriously don't have a lot of spare cash.