Is there a big difference between writing and performing contemporary material and doing more classical types of work?
While the career aspect is the main brief of this column, I wouldn’t want to discourage anyone from keeping the artistic element of their particular branch of the business. When I chat with aspiring writers and performers, it is common for them to have strong preferences as to which side of the contemporary/classical divide they wish to pursue their career in and, occasionally, unrealistic ideas as to the flexibility of the industry in terms of allowing them to specialise in their chosen path. Many of the casting directors and agents I have spoken to, while admiring the determination of young performers to follow a particular path, have expressed concern that if that path is initially too narrow, the all or nothing approach is likely to lead to nothing. Fortunately, it is possible to carve out a career route that leads you towards more of the work you enjoy doing. Here are some thoughts from two contemporary artists who are making a name for themselves with audiences, for work which cu
