What people do not understand about acting majors, is that acting is a hard profession. Yes, we all know that for most actors, it is hard to make it “big.” But that is not what I mean. I mean that acting takes a toll on you both mentally and physically. Actors push their minds and their bodies to the limits, all in the hope to achieve a beautifully honest performance. Many actors do not pursue fame. They simply want to make a living doing what they love.
When I tell people that I am an acting major, I get the same looks and questions every time:
“Oh, you’re an acting major? So, aren’t all of your classes like really easy?”
Actually, no they are not. The art of acting pushes you mentally and physically beyond what you thought you could do. Acting is the study of the human condition. Therefore, our classes go incredibly in depth, focusing on many different aspects of life and many different techniques. We work on breath, movement, emotional connections, and much more. The classes we take range from acting to stage combat to costume construction. We work on the technical aspects of theatre, along with our acting training. It helps us to become more well-rounded as an actor. So, when you think of acting majors, realize that it is a much more complex major than society leads you to believe.
“Aren’t all of you really crazy extroverted??”
Contrary to popular belief, not all actors are extroverted. You do not have to be a people person to be an actor. Acting requires you to be emotionally honest, and to connect with your “other,” or scene partner, onstage. Introverts can accomplish this, as well. Yes, many of us are very happy exuberant people, but that is because we love what we are doing.
“What’s your backup plan?”
Now, a lot of the time people ask this question because they are concerned with our well beings. Yet, most of the time people ask this because they think there is no way you can make a living as an actor. I am here to tell all of these people, that they are wrong. I agree, acting is a hard profession. However, that does not change the fact that it is, indeed, a profession. There are many markets for actors, such as: Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, and Dallas. These places have many local theatres that are renowned for their work. These cities also, have many opportunities in film and television, as well. Being an actor is hard, but do not worry for us. We love what we are doing; shouldn’t that be worth something?
Alan Rickman once said, “Actors are agents of change. A film, a piece of theatre, a piece of music, or a book can make a difference. It can change the world,” I believe that actors are important. We tell stories that, otherwise, might go unheard. I believe, that it is a great gift, to be an actor. You get to do what you love everyday, and you get to do it with amazing people. We create art, and there is great beauty in creating something out of nothing.
So, do not belittle this major, or this profession. Do not feel sorry for us. It is a privilege to be able to do what you love everyday. I urge everyone else to try it.
