Actors! What Happens To You As Your Career Grows Is Important To the Rest of Us!
Have you ever gone into a dinner or restaurant and had the sad privilege to witness a patron giving the riot act to a waiter, or restaurant staff? Ohhh I had that sad privilege over the weekend. I sat back sipping on a hot cup o’ java, and noticed a man’s voice raising. I caught a glimpse of him in the corner of my eye, and the vein in his neck was actually pronounced.. his nostrils were flaring.. I thought to myself all for what? Because the order was mixed up? Everyone in the dinning room grew more uncomfortable with each stabbing word of disapproval—even going so far as to personally insult the poor young waiter. Makes you want to walk up to that patron and give him what he’s got coming to him, doesn’t it?
Well.. the manager came along, fixed up everything… even offered him a voucher for his next visit.. and eventually everything sifted back to the quiet murmurs we all enjoyed before.. but that sort of ruined my afternoon. The look on the poor guys face alone was enough to make you want to pat him on the back and say not to worry. We’ve all had bad days. I’m sure it won’t be his last episode. Apparently working in that industry there’s bound to be a few bumps.
What it all brings me to is why? I was looking at the disgruntle patron, and he wasn’t dressed like a mucky muck.. perhaps he’s the type who hates his job, maybe his wife picks on him a little.. or maybe he wants for a better life.. Maybe looking down his nose at someone else, stomping on their pride, makes him somehow respectable? Gives him one place in time where he can be the scary boss from hell. As they say hospitality is equal to all.. and some abuse that privilege.
But what about the Industry? The ranks in the film or actors industry? Which role do you play? Are you the disgruntle patron? Or the struggling waiter? The ranks vary, and some of the stars I have worked with are in one of the two categories.. Either they want nothing to do with the little people..extras, one line actors and crew, which I wouldn’t mention names of course.. but then.. there’s some who are just as down to earth as the rest of us.
I learned a lot from Michael Dudikoff, when I was part of one of his films.
That man went out of his way to make everyone feel welcome, and part of the team. The most valuable lesson I learned from him, is to treat everyone with good old fashioned hospitality. He never forgets when it’s your first time, that you need a little patience. He always smiles, and tries to remember everyone’s name. He whispers tips, and sits with the crew and gets to know everyone. He helped me out a lot with some amazing tips that I might share with you next time. All I can say, is He is an amazing actor, and more so, he is as sweet in person as he is on the big screen. I hope someday I get to work with him again.. And if any of you get the opportunity to work with him.. go for it.. It’ll be an experience you’ll never forget, and for me, one I’ll always cherish.
As your career grows, and you become more popular. I hope you can learn the lesson of staying real. Keeping in mind that everyone has to start somewhere. A film runs more smoothly when everyone works well together. So keep to your roots, and mature along with your career. It will be worth it at the end of the day!
Peace and Love
Sacreeta
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