The Path to Stardom: Should Young Actors Seek Monastic Solitude or Multiple Roles?

When Ethan Hawke suggests that young actors should consider a monastic lifestyle instead of taking on too many roles, I can't help but disagree. This idea might suit some, but in my experience, young actors should embrace every opportunity available to them, rather than seeking isolation.

The Value of Experience for Actors

From my perspective as a teacher at the National Theatre School in Montreal, I believe that young actors should take on as many roles as possible. Exposure to a wide range of characters and experiences may not be the traditional path, but it can provide valuable insights that enhance an actor's talent and drive.

Balancing Drive and Discipline

When I taught at the school, I often played soccer with the local seminary students. Despite their contemplative lifestyle, I noticed no significant difference in their behavior compared to my acting students. This observation leads me to believe that a disciplined and driven approach to life is what truly matters.

The Importance of Encouragement

Encouragement plays a crucial role in nurturing talent. While financial stability is important, it should not be the sole measure of success. The path to becoming a successful actor is often arduous and filled with failure, but as improv artists often say, "Fail big, fail often, and fail forward."

Avoiding the Miserable Escape

Many people believe that artistic pursuits are akin to a deluded pipe-dream unless they lead to monetary gain. Even actors who have achieved fame are often counseled to pursue more stable careers. However, I believe that every aspiring actor should be encouraged to follow their passion, especially if they have the talent and drive to turn it into a successful career.

Embracing the "Yes-and" Mindset

In the world of improv, the "yes-and" mindset is crucial. This means accepting and building upon any idea presented, whether it be a role or a scenario. If an actor demonstrates their potential to their mentor or director, they should receive the encouragement to continue pursuing their craft to the best of their abilities. Anything less than that can be a discouragement to a gifted individual.

Conclusion

Talent is a precious commodity, and it must be nurtured and encouraged. I believe that the journey to a successful acting career is paved not with monastic isolation, but with a multiplicity of roles and experiences. Young actors should be empowered to take on every opportunity that comes their way, for it is in the process of trying that they discover their true potential.