You’re not doing this play and this role because of vanity.
You’re not doing the difficult, often thankless, producing work because “it’s good to get up there.”
You’re not doing it because you want to “showcase your talents.”
You’re not doing it because you want people to come up to you at the end of the night and tell you how wonderful you were.
You’re not doing it to get representation.
You’re not doing it to book future, paid work.
No way. That’s not why. That’s not you.
You’re doing it because you fell in love with this play. This role. At this time. So much so, you were willing to produce it.
You’re doing it because you want all the other artists (actors, director, designers, crew) to shine brightly and have an incredible, joyful experience.
You’re doing it because you want to honor the playwright. Their blood, sweat and tears they poured out on the page.
You’re doing it because you want to give the audience a memorable night out.
You’re doing it because…well…you just have to. You’re called to it. Summoned. Like a vocation. You didn’t have a choice.
That’s not vanity.
That’s passion.
And if people still want to judge you and call it a vanity project?…Fine.
I can’t wait to come and see your “Vanity Project”. Because it’s gonna be awesome.
The Vs. Studio Blog 
A wonderful, insightful, beautiful post, Johnny. The only addition I would add is that we have to be “compelled.”
As playwrights, we must be compelled to tell the story.
As an audience, we must feel compelled to follow the story to its completion.
As directors, we must feel compelled to get this story in front of that audience.
As designers, we must be compelled to make the story come alive in the most creative ways possible.
As actors, we must feel compelled to fully bring the characters to life, honestly and thoroughly.
And if we aren’t compelled to watch, direct, design or act, then find another story.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Michael. Yes! I love the addition of “compelled.”
LikeLike