The On Location Education Blog
Minimizing the Summer Slide
Summer is winding down, and while child actors enjoy “no more pencils, no more books” as much as the next child, they’re just as vulnerable to what educators call the dreaded “summer slide.” Education, like acting, is a work in progress that is best improved by practice, practice, practice! We may be too far into the season to stop the slide, but there are things that young performers, parents, and family members can do to brush up on their education chops and get ready for the new year.
A Study in Studying
Time is precious for everyone, but for child actors and other non-traditional students, it’s a commodity like no other. Any given day calls for juggling auditions, rehearsals, photo shoots, and meetings, but unlike their adult counterparts, young performers and other students on the go have to find a way to squeeze schooling into their busy schedules. Try these tips to make the most of your study time.
Educational Requirements for Young Actors in New York
In our last post, we discussed the legal requirements for young performers in New York—work permits, financial protections, and health clearances—but even after you’ve crossed the last “T” and dotted the last “I,” your child actor is not off the hook. Though they might think they’re ready to take on the world, the State of New York first requires them to get an education. The world will still be waiting for them after they finish their schooling.
ACTORS WHO ARE STAR STUDENTS SHINE BRIGHTER
Roman philosopher Seneca is credited with saying “luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” While this holds true in many walks of life, it is perhaps most important when applied to careers in the performing arts. And for young performers, preparation involves more than running lines and rehearsing songs; it also means taking education seriously.
The Importance of Academics for Child Actors
Honing your talents, taking the perfect headshot, and acing auditions are all critical factors in determining whether or not you get the part; but did you know that your schoolwork could be just as important?