When I was about 10 I told my mom that I wanted to be a performer. She told me that she wanted me to have a childhood. In many ways this was a good decision, however it would have made some things easier at the present time if I was already in the biz. A friend of mine told me that she and her husband noticed their young son’s extraordinary musical ability. They thought he may be interested in pursuing music when he gets older, as long as he has something to fall back on to support himself.
This is a common fear for parents of any child wanting to go into a career in the arts, but it seems stronger in the midwest for some reason. I understand this fear that one may not make a living in this profession, but more often than not this fear outweighs the drive to go after your dreams and at least try it.
I myself am not able to live without knowing where my next paycheck is coming from, but I mostly blame my upbringing. I have many friends who do not have regular jobs and spend their time auditioning and booking gigs here and there and I really admire that. It can be done. And if it doesn’t work out, you can try something else.
Acting is a risky business, it’s true. But if your child expresses a serious desire to pursue it, I think that you should encourage it in any way you can and not just say “Sure, as long as you have another career to fall back on.” Children learn from their parents and will never forget this instilled, pounding terror that they damn well better have money coming in. I think they forget the idea that if they work hard, it IS possible to make their dreams happen.
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Great post that speaks to a lot of…everyone.
When I was growing up my family always joked that I’d be the next Jim Carrey, even though Jim Carrey was JUST gaining popularity with movies like The Mask and Ave Ventura… Now that I am a working (mo$tly) actor, they’re less excited, don’t come to my shows and probably think I’m lying when I say I’m doing a movie or commercial. I still love them though.
Great post, Cat! I will remember this advice when Ms. Bean no doubt comes to me one day insisting she is going to be an actress or singer or the next American Idol!