Exit Strategies: How to Leave a Scene, a Process, or a Creative Partnership with Integrity

We often focus on beginnings in creative spaces, the excitement of a new project, the first day of rehearsals. Endings are just as important and having a clear exit strategy ensures a smooth transition for everyone involved.

Exits should be intentional and respectful. Knowing how to exit with integrity makes a difference.

Why Exit Strategies Matter

• They Provide Closure

• They Protect Well-Being

• They Maintain Professionalism

• They Prevent Burnout

Exiting a Scene

When working on emotionally charged material, actors need a way to separate themselves from their characters and return to a neutral state. Without a clear exit, intense emotions can linger, leading to emotional exhaustion or blurred boundaries.

In Practice:

• Tapping In and Tapping Out: This is a simple but effective ritual that signals when an actor is entering and leaving the world of the character. Before beginning the scene, each performer physically “taps in” (this can be a hand tap on their own chest, a clap, or touching an object). When the scene is over, they physically “tap out” to acknowledge that they are stepping away from the emotions of the performance and returning to themselves. This helps create a clear psychological boundary between character and self. More on that here.

• Shake It Off: After a heavy scene, encourage performers to literally shake off the tension. This physical reset signals to the body and brain that the work is done.

• Three Breaths Technique: Before leaving the scene, actors take three deep breaths together. The first breath releases the character’s emotions, the second brings awareness back to the body, and the third grounds them in the present moment.

Closing a Rehearsal

A strong rehearsal process includes clear bookends. Rushing out of a rehearsal without a transition can leave performers feeling disconnected and unsettled.

In Practice:

• Tapping In and Tapping Out

• Circle Up: a brief moment to close out the day and acknowledge one another. This might include a one-word summary of how everyone is feeling, a group stretch, or a collective breath. My personal way on ending a class or reheasal come from my dance background and is often a collective reach up and down followed by a thank you.

Stepping Away from a Project or Collaboration

Not every artistic relationship lasts forever. Sometimes you need to step away from a project for personal, professional, or creative reasons. How you exit determines the impression you leave behind.

In Practice:

• Pass the Torch: If you’re leaving mid-project, offer a resource for whoever is stepping in. Providing notes, documents, or a transition meeting ensures continuity and demonstrates professionalism.

• Write a Gracious Exit Letter: When leaving a long-term role or collaboration, a short, appreciative message can go a long way. This approach keeps doors open for future collaboration.

• Set a Clear Last Day and Get Out ASAP: Ambiguity around departure dates can lead to confusion or resentment. So can outstaying your decision to leave. Setting a firm and swift exit date and making it clear what you will and won’t be responsible for after that date helps maintain clarity and respect for all involved.

Navigating an Uncomfortable or Unsafe Situation

Unfortunately, not all exits happen on good terms. Sometimes you need to remove yourself from a situation quickly and decisively.

Here it may be important to look into your contract and/or consult with HR. Please note however, that HR is there to protect the organization and not the individual.

If you are looking for an ally you personal network is best.

In Practice:

• Professional Pivot: Direct the conversation toward a clear exit. This keeps things neutral and avoids unnecessary confrontation.

“I appreciate the opportunity, but I realize this project isn’t the right fit for me. I need to step away, and I wish you all the best moving forward.”

• Support Check-In: Before making a tough exit, talk to a trusted colleague or mentor. A second opinion can help clarify whether stepping away is the best choice and provide moral support in navigating the transition.

• No-Explanation Boundary: If a situation is unsafe or toxic, you do not owe anyone a detailed reason for your departure. A firm, simple statement like “I’m unable to continue with this project” is enough. If necessary, loop in an advocate to ensure a smoother transition.

Exits are an inevitable part of creative work, but they don’t have to be messy. Having an intentional exit strategy protects both your well-being and your professional relationships.