Meaning: Suzanne Farrell, an acclaimed American ballet dancer, offers a poignant insight into the experience of performing on stage with her quote, "When you are on stage, you don't see faces. The lights are in your eyes and you see just this black void out in front of you. And yet you know there is life out there, and you have to get your message across." This quote encapsulates the paradoxical nature of live performance, where the performer is simultaneously isolated by the glare of the stage lights and connected to the audience by the need to communicate and express their art.

Farrell's words convey the intense focus and concentration required of a performer, as they navigate the sensory overload of bright lights and the seeming emptiness of the stage. The phrase "you don't see faces" suggests that the visibility of the audience is obscured by the blinding illumination, creating a disorienting effect that separates the performer from the individuality of the spectators. This separation can be both daunting and liberating for the performer, as it allows them to transcend the distractions of the external world and delve deeply into their craft.

The description of "this black void out in front of you" evokes a sense of the unknown and the mysterious expanse of the stage. In this emptiness, the performer must find the inner resolve and creativity to fill the space with their presence and artistry. The stage becomes a canvas for the performer's emotions, movements, and expressions, transforming the darkness into a realm of infinite possibilities. This transformation is a testament to the power of the performer's imagination and skill, as they shape the intangible into a tangible experience for the audience.

The acknowledgment of "life out there" conveys an awareness of the audience's presence and energy. Despite the visual impediment of the stage lights, the performer remains attuned to the existence of the audience, recognizing their role as the recipients of the performance. This awareness instills a sense of responsibility within the performer, compelling them to bridge the gap between the stage and the audience, and to convey their message with clarity and sincerity.

The phrase "you have to get your message across" underscores the communicative essence of performing arts. Regardless of the visual constraints and the enigmatic nature of the stage, the performer bears the imperative to convey their artistic vision and connect with the audience on an emotional and intellectual level. This imperative transcends the technical aspects of performance, emphasizing the profound human exchange that occurs within the shared space of the theater.

In conclusion, Suzanne Farrell's quote offers a profound glimpse into the complex dynamics of performance, highlighting the dichotomy of isolation and connection experienced by performers on stage. Through her eloquent words, she captures the intense sensory and emotional landscape of live performance, illuminating the paradoxical interplay between visibility and obscurity, solitude and communion. This quote serves as a testament to the resilience, creativity, and profound artistry of performers who navigate the enigmatic realm of the stage to touch the hearts and minds of their audience.