Episode Summary:

In this episode of Drop the Act, host Christopher Key sits down with two seasoned performers, Ceili O’Connor and Conner Gillooly, currently starring in School of Rock on its international tour. Broadcasting from Hong Kong, the trio explores the intersection of theatre and business, revealing key insights on confidence, resilience, communication, and the art of effective storytelling.

Key Takeaways: Theatre as a Training Ground for Business: Ceili and Conner discuss how their early fascination with people-watching and body language shaped their ability to communicate effectively on and off stage. Rejection and Resilience: Conner shares wisdom from his salesman father about collecting ‘no’s’ as steps toward a ‘yes,’ while Ceili emphasizes the importance of developing a strong support network. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Both actors recount personal battles with self-doubt and how they’ve learned to trust their preparation and unique approach. The Power of Presence: The importance of mindfulness, breathwork, and hydration in managing nerves before stepping into the spotlight—lessons equally applicable in the corporate world. The Impact of Body Language: Ceili explains how posture, eye contact, and stance project confidence, while Conner highlights how physicality can shape emotion and delivery. Bringing Playfulness into Performance: Whether on stage or in the boardroom, a sense of play and improvisation can help unlock creativity and authentic engagement. Lessons from Working with Young Performers: The duo reflects on the inspiration drawn from child actors in School of Rock—their fearless energy and openness to learning serve as reminders for professionals to embrace curiosity and adaptability. Mistakes as Gifts: Conner advocates for embracing mistakes as opportunities for growth, reframing setbacks as moments to innovate rather than failures. Actionable Tips for Business Leaders: View every public speaking opportunity as a performance—prepare, but stay flexible. Use breathwork and hydration to stay grounded under pressure. Embrace rejection as part of the journey to success. Trust in your knowledge and unique voice—don’t try to imitate others. Pay attention to your body language and adjust it to project confidence and authority. Notable Quotes: “Collect the ‘no’s’—each one gets you closer to a ‘yes.’” – Conner Gillooly “Our greatest tool as performers is our ability to observe and adapt.” – Ceili O’Connor “Mistakes aren’t failures, they’re gifts.” – Conner Gillooly “Confidence isn’t about faking it—it’s about trusting yourself.” – Ceili O’Connor Connect with Us: Website: https://www.performingperfectly.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/performingperfectly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/performingperfectly Podcast Subscription: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.