I used to Google “advice for aspiring actors,” but there would be no results. My fascination with theater and film began at a young age, and I just wanted to know how they did it: How could these actors, directors and writers construct a pretend world that seemed so real? Frustrated by the lack of information, I decided to create the websites Broadway Master Chat and Hollywood Master Chat. I felt there needed to be educational information and advice from real professionals about working in film, TV and theater. So many students crave guidance and perspective about the notoriously difficult world of the performing arts. I wanted to create a place where substantial information was globally accessible.
Two years later, and I have conducted almost sixty interviews. If there’s anything that I’ve learned from my sites, it’s that hard work pays off. From the standbys in Broadway shows to the Academy Award winners I’ve talked to, each has stressed the importance of diligence and tenacity. For Broadway Master Chat, I typically ask interviewees about their pre-show routine. Yes, it’s fun to hear how each person prepares to perform, but what is even more interesting is to hear about how a career on Broadway dictates your everyday life: your pre-show routine is your existence. These actors’ regimen has inspired me to have the same discipline while working on my sites. I’ve spent so many hours of my life for the past few years transcribing interviews, researching Broadway shows, and sending out countless interview requests to the representatives of my favorite performers. I think Tony Goldwyn put it best in his HMC interview when he said, “By just following [your] passion, it will lead you to something you’re supposed to do.” I have followed my passion for the performing arts with my websites, and they have led me to roundtables with filmmakers, the backstage of Broadway show, and advanced screenings of films.
Of course I’ve had to learn how to balance these exciting opportunities with my other full-time job—being a high school senior. As a student, the deadlines I have to meet for my teachers take precedence over press conferences. And while most people in my grade go out to lunch during their free periods, I go to the practice room to interview a Broadway actor. Many times, in the middle of a conversation, the bell will ring, reminding me that I have a math test next period. In a press conference, I had a text pop up asking me what last night’s English homework was. I will never forget the moment when Adrien Brody was staring into my soul, explaining his love of acting, right when my phone vibrated with the reminder, “SATs Saturday!!!”
As high school comes to an end, I think of the next step. I hope to create a single site for both Master Chats and incorporate interviews with music industry professionals and authors. Also, I want to publish a book of advice from my interviewees. If I can hold my own when talking to a publicist, who says I can’t hold my own with a publisher?