Grayson Buesing is an actor based in Milwaukee, WI, currently studying theatre at Marquette University.

               There is a notion that innovative and meaningful theatre always strives to inspire something in its audience. The idea of “what” it inspires comes in variation, but there is never a piece of theatre that exists entirely outside the concept of inspiring an audience. This philosophy is the core belief of my work as an actor. I see the acting work of theatre not as a performative tool, contrary to the central idea of acting, but as a conduit that taps into an audience’s willingness to listen and act on what they see and hear. Every character I portray, every show I participate in – there is always an aim to connect with my audience in a way that extends beyond what they see me do on stage.

               Throughout the course of this work, I focus on developing techniques and choices that cater towards my audience. The work is for the actor, and the reward is for everyone but the actor. I am a firm believer of never letting the work be for me – if it morphs into that, I’ve lost my objective as an actor. Instead, I allow my audience to reap the benefits of what I’ve labored over for extended periods of time, so they can connect with that work in a much easier manner. They should be able to take something from the work I put in that they can pay forward into the world when they leave the space.

               My work is not aimed to be a statement of anything – it is simply a base point for my audience to branch out from. Every production I’ve participated in up to this point has provided a message to take into the world. It can be a message of hope, love, perseverance – whatever it is. It’s for the audience. I welcome you and hope you enjoy taking this journey with me.