Cut out for it?

[Javert]

<p>Hey everyone.</p>

<p>Okay, so I have been thinking a whole lot lately. First off, I am a junior in high school. I do all of the school shows and as many community theatre shows as I can. I've finally begun to land lead roles, and I have been told that I am very talented. Okay, so that is all fine and dandy.</p>

<p>I live Broadway. I love it, and I try to read as much information on it as I can. I am up to date with all of the shows that are currently playing, and the past shows, and all that jazz. I consider myself very knowledgeable on the subject.</p>

<p>Now, here is the thing. I can't dance. I really can't dance at all, no matter how many classes I take, or how hard I try to learn. I've come to accept this fact. I mean, my singing and acting skills are great, but I just suck at dancing.</p>

<p>Also, I've noticed that it's very very hard to make it in the field. There is also very little money to be earned in most cases. This is really discouraging. I mean, this is what I've wanted to do, but I don't know anymore. It's times like these when I find myself doubting my abilities to perform, and I find myself wanting to do something else.</p>

<p>The other strongest pull in my life is politics. I am very involved, and I would love to do something with that. I've always wanted to be involved in government. Plus, there is money to be earned in that. I've also wanted to be a lawyer, and that could jump start my career in politics.</p>

<p>Anyway, does anyone have any advice on what to do? Do I follow my musical theatre passion and major in that? Or do I have a stable job and make a name for myself through politics? Help me out here.</p>

[BreakIntoSong]

<p>Unfortunately, no matter what anyone says, this is a decision that you will have to make for yourself. </p>

<p>Many top MT schools will tell you that if you can see yourself possibly doing ANYTHING else, then do it. </p>

<p>Perhaps you can go to a good BA program and double major and decide after that if you want to continue to law school? Or after college take some time off to audition and if it doesn't work out, then at least you'll know. </p>

<p>No matter what a degree in theater is a good thing to have for any type of speaking forum. With your doubt however I, personally, wouldn't bother stressing about applying to BFA programs since you're so unsure of what to do.</p>

[CoachC]

<p>Javert - </p>

<p>Get yourself a copy of Acting Professionally, by Robert Cohen. It's a great, very straight-up look at the realities of the biz, something the University of Michigan, for one, requires its students to read and reflect in writing upon during both freshman and junior years. </p>

<p>Acting as a career will NEVER be "easy," no matter how successful you become - there is never job security, even for those who make millions of dollars in film. </p>

<p>It sounds like are very passionate about Broadway, but it is also necessary to think like a business person - I'm not sure how you know about "the business of the business." Reading helps - things like Cohen's book, Backstage (the business articles and adds), and the Equity website. As you are making your decision, you want to know the "harshest" realities of the business side of performing as a career.</p>

<p>One other thing - depending on your physical type, not dancing may not be a huge problem for you - if you are a taller, bigger, baritone-y guy. </p>

<p>Hope this helps!</p>

[5pants]

<p>Javert,</p>

<p>Kudos to you for having such an honest dialogue with yourself. I think CoachC gives you great advice and I urge you to do as she suggests. It is possible for you to find a meaningful career path incorporating all that you love. My Ss have a good friend who loved MT also, but instead of trying to become a performer he decided to head down the path as a lawyer for the entertainment field. Currently he is at NYU....and loving it I hear.</p>

<p>With time and research you will come to know your purpose and path...sometimes it's blatantly obvious but takes awhile for us to put the pieces together. Life is crazy like that.</p>

<p>Best of luck to you...</p>

<p>SUE aka 5pants</p>