Should Parents Encourage Their Children to Pursue a Career in Theatre?
Aloha Teen Theatre
by Chris Peterson, OnStage Blog
Theatre has long held a place of cultural and artistic significance. From Shakespearean plays to Broadway musicals, it’s a world that captures the imagination and celebrates human creativity. For children with a passion for performing arts, the allure of a theatre career can be irresistible.
However, whether parents should encourage their children to pursue this path remains a subject of debate. Below, we explore both sides of the argument.
NO, THEY SHOULDN’T
While the theatre world is undoubtedly inspiring, it is also fraught with challenges that make it a difficult career choice. Parents must consider the potential financial instability, intense competition, and emotional toll that often accompany a life in the performing arts.
One of the most significant concerns is financial insecurity. Actors and other theatre professionals often face low median incomes and inconsistent employment. Many must take on secondary jobs to make ends meet, leaving little time or energy to pursue their craft. This precarious lifestyle can lead to stress, burnout, and long-term financial struggles.
Also, the competitive nature of the theatre industry cannot be overstated. For every role, there are countless talented individuals vying for the same opportunity. Even those who achieve initial success may struggle to maintain momentum in their careers. Rejection is a constant reality, and not everyone has the resilience to face it day after day.
Furthermore, the demands of a theatre career often conflict with other aspects of life. Long hours, evening performances, and frequent travel can strain personal relationships and make it challenging to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Parents who prioritize their children’s overall well-being may hesitate to endorse a career path that poses such significant lifestyle challenges.
Another factor to consider is the narrowness of the field. While there are many roles within the theatre industry, the number of available positions is limited, particularly in smaller markets. This lack of opportunity can make it difficult for aspiring theatre professionals to establish and sustain their careers.
Finally, parents may worry about the emotional toll of pursuing theatre. The constant pressure to prove oneself, coupled with frequent rejection, can be demoralizing. For children who lack a strong support system or the ability to cope with these challenges, the theatre world can be particularly unforgiving.
YES, THEY SHOULD
A career in theatre offers children the opportunity to follow their dreams and make a living doing what they love. For many, this is the ultimate definition of success. Parents who encourage their children to pursue a career in theatre demonstrate that they value passion and self-expression over conventional notions of stability.
The skills cultivated through theatre are invaluable, even beyond the stage. Public speaking, teamwork, adaptability, and emotional intelligence are just a few examples of attributes developed through acting, directing, or working backstage. These skills are transferable across a wide range of industries, from education to marketing to public relations. By encouraging a theatre career, parents are setting their children up to be versatile and well-rounded individuals.
In addition, the entertainment industry is vast and diverse. While securing a role as an actor might be challenging, there are numerous other careers within the field, such as stage management, costume design, set construction, and playwriting. Parents who support their children in exploring various facets of theatre may help them find a niche where they can thrive.
Finally, by fostering a love of theatre, parents encourage cultural engagement and artistic appreciation. These qualities are essential for preserving the arts, ensuring that future generations continue to benefit from their transformative power.
TO MY FELLOW PARENTS,
Theatre is a vibrant and essential part of society, and those who work in the industry play a crucial role in shaping culture and storytelling. For children with a genuine passion for the performing arts, a theatre career can be deeply rewarding—but it is not without significant challenges.
Parents should approach this decision with care, balancing their desire to support their child’s dreams with the need to ensure their long-term stability and happiness. By fostering both passion and practicality, parents can help their children navigate the complexities of pursuing a career in theatre while preparing them for a fulfilling and successful life, whether on stage or beyond.