Why I Chose Theatre

The theatre has been an important part of my life starting from a young age. Growing up, my mother was always involved with community theatre, and I would attend her rehearsals and performances. The very first live theatre performance I went to see my mom in was A Grand Night For Singing, and from the first note of the overture, I was hooked. There was something that drew me into theatre and made me want to be a part of it. As I grew older, I eventually was able to be apart of theatrical productions myself and experience the rush and excitement of live theatre. Theatre became a family affair when my father and older brother became involved in the technical side of theatre and our local stagehands union. From then on, the theatre became a second
While my family has been supportive of my interest in theatre as a hobby, anytime I mention a possible career out of it, they say that if I do this, then I will not be able to provide for my future family, much less have one to begin with. They tell me horror stories of how their old theatre major friends are poor and unsuccessful in their lives, or how fine art positions are always the first positions to get cut in the education field. They then urge me to consider a safer career choice, and keep theatre as a hobby. Hearing the successes from professionals in the field has made me consider my options: to do what I want and enjoy, or do what is safe. While I realize that my family is correct when they say theatre takes a lot of time and hard work, they are also incorrect when they say that I would be unable to make a living and have a family if I make this my career. Yes, it may be difficult to make ends meet sometimes, I do not care if I struggle financially in my life as long as I am happy and doing what I love to
Theatre has taught me how to interact with others, as well as how not to interact with others. It has taught me important skills like responsibility, respect, time management, critical thinking, problem solving, and how to work well with others. Theatre has also taught me to be punctual and flexible, and it has taught me to be more confident in myself and my talents. I value theatre so much because it has been a very influential part of my life, and has helped shape me into the person I am today. I want to give the experience of theatre to others. I want to inspire high school students the same way my high school theatre teacher inspired me. I want to give these students a safe place to explore themselves and develop their talents and their personality. I want to give to others connections and relationships that the theatre has given me, specifically friendships that have lasted several years and a sense of extended family. Theatre has given me so much in my life, and I, ultimately, want to give back to the institution that has made me who I am today, through the teaching of theatre to high school