I'm A Natural, Why Do I Have To Study?
In 1958, Grover added singing and acting classes to his schedule. A year later, he was hired to u/s Anthony Perkins in "Greenwillow." In '61, he was cast by Sir Noel Coward to play opposite Sheila Forbes in the London production of "Sail Away."
WHAT HAPPENS IF I DON'T HAVE ANY TRAINING?
Ok Grover,
I have a question. I was formerly a gymnast and a cheerleader, & I have been dancing for ever! I am very quick at picking up dances I've learned almost every one of Britney Spears dances including her 2000 VMA performace, I've even choreographed dances for projects in my drama class by myself, I am 15 and hope to pursue a career in dancing after I graduate. The thing is I haven't had any training in like ballet, tap, or jazz.... is that going to affect my chances for ever getting a job?!?
Dear Sal,
Yes, it certainly will affect your chances of getting a job! Many young dancers like yourself have made the mistake of thinking that picking up dances from MTV means they can book jobs. It doesn't work that way. Choreographers that hire dancers look for more than your "fire", "soul" or "natural gifts" as a dancer. Their requirements often include the ability of duplicating a combination after seeing it once, infusing it with dramatic requirements, having the ability to leap, jump, or turn as needed, being able to reverse or revise any combination upon command, and retain different versions of the choreography and recall them as needed. Instantly. This is just the beginning. We haven't even mentioned rehearsal procedures, on-the-set vocabulary, or professional behavior. So, Sal, look at this as a friendly wake-up call. Get real. If you're serious about pursuing dance, get your butt into dance class. I'm talking ballet, jazz, and hip hop, man!
Regards,
Grover D.
