Performing Arts

At nine years old, coming from a poor family, I had the option to choose what after school activity I wanted to be in. When things were good, I decided on Martial Arts and a Children's performance group in the area. When money got tighter, I had to choose between the two. Though I can tout my excitement and decency in both venues, it was very clear to me that the joy of being on stage far outweighed the joy of kicking someone's butt.

I began the journey of performance arts and if you don't know what that includes or you think that it's a lazy person's ideal career, you would be surprised what actually goes into being an artist.

The world of performing arts is filled to the brim with overly talented people all vying for the same thing. Their chance. Be it on stage, on the big screen or any open venue, it takes hard work, perseverance and dedication to your craft.

First, you need to know what type of artist you want to be. Are you a singer, dancer, actor, all of the above? Each craft takes training and working to even be considered in the field. Does that mean that lucky kid on YouTube who sang his heart out on the street isn't good? No, it doesn't, but he is also one in ten million that got that opportunity.

There is natural talent and learned talent. Can you be taught to sing? YES! In fact, even those with natural talent should still learn to properly care for their voice or you may be unlucky having pushed that note out in an incorrect way and hurt your cords!

So, here we go!

Take lessons.

It doesn't matter if you were born the best singer in the world. You have more to learn. Breathing, Technique, multi-part songs, theory etc. Do you know all of these? Marilyn Monroe took lessons years after she was already famous knowing she wanted to grow!

Learn to take Criticism!

The world of performing arts is extremely competitive. You are going to get told what you did wrong. Be open to the experience.

Don't get married to one idea!

You will have different teachers, directors, and producers as long as you are in the business. You can definitely find methods you like, but you have to flexible.

Don't be a diva (o) !

As a director, nothing is worse than dealing with childish behavior when it comes to what I am asking. If you don't like the costume, suck it up buttercup.

Be Prepared!

Nothing is worse in an audition than having to see tons of people do the same thing all day and then waiting on someone who can't get it together. Have your scene/song prepared and ready to go.

These are all small steps into the world of performing. Don't get sad and give up because you get rejected. It's all a part of the business. The big deal and the way to success, is to keep trying!