To Our Young Performers

The young people with whom I work in the theatre and in the classroom know that I have very high expectations of them, especially when it comes to discipline.  I admit to getting frustrated at their insistance on talking after they've been warned.  I expect them to learn new skills in that arena; yet, I've realized I have something to learn, too.

When my own children were little, like many others, they went through a phase of asking, "Why?"  It became irritating after awhile, but a parent always answers, except when we're busy and then we answer, "Because I said so!"

Young people still want to know why, but their social obligations get in the way of them asking.  This is the part I've forgotten:

When young folks don't learn from one or two consequences that have arisen from their actions, it's because they don't know why it's important. You'd think I would have figured that out by now, but I haven't.  With this in mind, I offer this humble letter to the wonderful young'ns with whom I am working now, have worked in the past, and will work in the future:

Dear one,

I hope you are enjoying our time together building a show.  I know there have been moments of frustration or confusion, but it's all a part of the process.  The one thing I know is that our time together is important because we are building something amazing as a team.  We have an incredible show that I suspect is going to be phenomenal by opening night.  It's going to be phenomenal, though, for reasons different than you may imagine.

As a group, you are ridiculously talented.  Your voices, your acting, your intelligence, and your imagination all sparkle when you are focused and working.  When you are socializing during rehearsals, that sparkle diminishes a bit because you are not respecting those in process.  I'd like to share with you why that's important.

One of the best ways for a person to understand their value is to be valued by those they love and trust.  An individual will have a very difficult time learning to appreciate their gifts and talents if they are not heard.  As a vocal music teacher and music director, I understand this concept very well.  I am now asking you to learn this, too. 

As for you, what you need to know is that I hear you.  Every night as you sing, dance, and act, I experience the magic that you bring.  Don't be confused, my friend, it is magic.  From little dots and letters on a page, you manifest beauty and art, elegence and energy.  I recognize that it comes from inside you.  You've taken what the composers and lyricists have written and added your personal stamp on their work.  No one in the world can create this work in exactly the same way you can.  You are unique.  Not so suddenly, one night during a rehearsal, you've found your rhythm and the heartbeat of your character and this once page-bound individual comes alive.  You, alone, have brought all the pieces together to awaken this whole individual for others to see.  You see?  This truly is magic.

Those who are given gifts in this area must understand something very important.  These gifts come with a critical responsibility.  You must also be able to recognize your own value so that when you are working with others, you are able to help them understand their value as well.  You must listen and watch them so that you can reach out to them to validate their work that they are trying so hard to create.  The leadership you show in this area will impact others' lives in ways you will never imagine.  This is part of a great work ethic.

Some of you may be saying, "But, I'm just a kid.  Why would I have that responsibility?" 

Every time you walk into a theatre, you join a very long history of actors that have tread the planks of the stage.  You are doing the same type of work as those who stood in front of Aristophanes, Shakespeare, and August Wilson as they prepared their plays.  Your responsibilities are no less important.  A great performer is one who understands their place in history and takes it seriously. 

Fear and creativity cannot co-exist.  Those who've worked with me before all know this phrase.  In this light, we know that being afraid we are not good enough is going to keep us from achieving everything possible in our creative lives.  Let those fears guide you to the areas that you need to work on most. 

If you are afraid you are not loud enough, learn how to use your diaphragmatic support more effectively.

If you are afraid you don't understand the line, go to the director and invite a conversation about it. 

If you are afraid you can't remember your vocal line, set up an appointment with the music director to work through that section of music until you're sure of it.

If you are afraid you're not talented enough, talk with the person who cast you so that you can trust their reasoning behind their faith in you. 

Once you've overcome the hurdles of your fears, share that newfound understanding with those around you.  That's when the leadership begins.  That's when your colleagues have an opportunity to share your wisdom in this process. 

On a personal level, I recognize your value as individual human beings as well as performers.  I cherish the time we spend together because I, too, learn from you.  You have moved me and affected my perceptions.  When you are at your best, you are so powerful and beautiful to watch!

When I am tough on you, it is because I know you are ready to add feathers to your wings.  I know that you are trying to fly, but because of your fears or your youth, you may not feel ready.  You are ready, my young doves.  You have the skills to create art.  You will continue to grow as you develop new skills and techniques, adding to your already radiant talent. 

Here are the lessons I offer to you to build on your loving leadership skills:

• Listen intimately to others because you may hear their hearts as well as their lyrics. 
• Watch peacefully as others work because you can learn something. 
• Speak lovingly because someone may need you to be their touchstone in that moment. 
• Work diligently because your excellence may bring hope to one person in the audience. 
• Act respectfully to everyone with whom you are in process because your validation of their work may build enough confidence in them that they may take new risks and reach new heights because of your faith in them.  

When you commit to these acts of love and kindness, you become mentors to those who need you.  Humble leadership is yet another gift you will have to offer.

You make a difference.  Each and every one of you.  Let there be no misunderstanding in that.

I love and respect you all and trust that you will take from this letter what you need.  Thank you for your willingness to share your gifts with me and with everyone else around you.  I am grateful that you've taken the time to read this letter to you.  Your generosity has made our lives better.

Love,

James