<p>Thank you for the kind explanation - I do understand you’re just trying to figure out what to do, with the best intentions.</p>
<p>If I sounded gruff, it’s because I really want you to think about this very sensitive, unpredictable and sometimes unforgiving vocation in its deepest sense. Yes, there are people who “work the system” to get ahead - where the “business” in “show business” came from. I don’t even really have a problem with that. I just don’t think you really feel that way about theatre, and I hope you can work and experience it purely for meaningful reasons. Even if you did want to work the system - hardly anyone actually succeeds at that, anyway. You might as well follow your heart and have something to feel good about.</p>
<p>I’ve lived in high-powered places and dealt with those kinds of pressures. For the last 18 years, I’ve lived in a very wonderful but much quieter place. But guess what: there are a lot of terrific people here doing amazing things in theatre. They are excited to immerse themselves in Shakespeare. They also enjoy the full spectrum of contemporary works, and do really rewarding work in the community. They celebrate it all. I truly believe this also happens in college theatre programs all over the country. There will be a place for you, with your inherent talents and the insight and experience you can bring.</p>
<p>You can follow your gut, and your heart, and you can do whatever you want, whatever you’re willing to try. Just be careful about filtering it through other people’s standards. Nothing kills a creative spirit quicker. And if you spend too much time chasing what you think other people will want from you, you will miss a lot of opportunities that would truly have had meaning.</p>