Today's installment: an interview with actor Misty Demory. My personal favorite role of Misty's? The (Price) Slasher in Imagination Stage's Lost and Foundling. Brilliant.
If you'd like to join the conversation, comment here, tweet @Mamaturg, or email me!
How many kids do you have? How old are they?
I have 2 kids, 6 and 2.
How do you think the DC area is unique when it comes to being an artist and a parent?
I think we live in a very kid-friendly city and though I try not to take advantage of it too often, most of the casting directors in town are very accommodating of the actors with children. Imagination Stage allowed me to do a show when I was 8 months pregnant and Suzzane at Carlyn Davis Casting allows me to bring my sons in with me to auditions. Again, I try to not abuse these things, but if certainly is a nice feeling of support.
What do you see as the biggest challenges of being a parent and an actor?
The biggest challenge for me is finding the time to do it all. It's probably similar to other people who work from home and have kids. I may be trying to memorize new lines, or prep for an audition and my two year old will come, watch me rehearse for about a minute and then stare up at me with "Puss-in-Boots" eyes and say, "Mommy, will you come play with me please?" That is the hardest. Nine times out of ten, the kid wins.
What is the most exciting thing about being a parent and an actor?
The most exciting thing about being a parent and an actor is the feeling of pride I have when I can bring the 6 year old to a show, or when I hear him tell his friends, "my mom did that show..."to be living my dream I hope is setting the best example for them for the future.
How has being a parent impacted your acting career?
Where to begin with this one...let's see, as a woman, my body is definitely not the same as it was pre-kids.
I was out of work for about a year right after turning equity.
Probably not the best career choice, but for me, having kids was always a
priority. (as you know:) there are often nights where I'm up every
hour because of one kid needing medicine, or another being afraid of the
dark, or...just because they want to cry. I then have to be at an
audition that morning. Clean off the vomit, put some Visine in my eyes
and make it happen. Now that I write this, I think, maybe not so very
different from college days. Seriously though, it's the biggest challenge ever, and yet so worth it.How has being an actor impacted your parenting?
The unknown factor in being an actor, not knowing exactly when and where your next job will be, or how much your income will be that month definitely impacts our family and my parenting, but every job has it's stresses and I just do my best to not let the kids see the insecure part of it.
How do you manage the work-life balance?
I'm very fortunate to have a husband who is home every day at 5:00. He helps make the work life balance work. His job is much more flexible, so he is always able to step in when needed. Then there are the months when I don't have a job. Instead of feeling sorry for myself about being an out of work actor, I try my best to embrace those times as an opportunity to spend quality time with the boys, because in a blink of an eye, it will be over and I won't have anyone to tuck into bed at night, or to snug up and read to.
Did your work change after you had a child?
This sounds so cliche, but my acting became so much more real. I feel things now that I could only imagine before. Before I became a mother, I don't think I cared about anyone else more than myself, even though I love so many people. Now, no matter what, I care/love/would do anything for these two little people and that makes my heart and emotions more exposed and I think maybe that is visible in my work.
What advice would you give to other artists who are also parents?
I think we all just need to know we're not alone. It helps to feel like there are other people out there, dealing with the same issues. Honestly, I love it that you're doing this Jenn...giving a voice to people like us. [Editor's Note: Aw, thanks, Misty!]
What’s the most important advice you would give your children if they want to be artists?
I tell my kids they are going to be doctors.
* * *
Misty knew the stage was where she belonged at a very
early age. After high school, she was accepted into the
conservatory training program at The American Academy of Dramatic
Arts in Los Angeles, CA. She then returned to Arizona to
be closer to family and to develop further as an actor. While
in Arizona, Misty worked as an actor in Scottsdale and
Phoenix for 3 years. She found unexpected enjoyment as a
casting associate for Star Casting where she assisted in
casting independent films, industrial videos, and national
commercials. She also taught, directed, and performed improv
comedy with Louis Anthony Russo's OxymoronZ.
In 2003, Misty moved to DC and began exploring the depth and breadth of the DC theater scene. She is currently an associate artist with Constellation Theatre Company. She and Artistic Director Allison Stockman have been working together since shortly after Misty arrived in DC, and Misty enjoys collaborating with Allison any chance she gets. Constellation Theatre Company is dedicated to creating epic ensemble theatre that has visionary design and heightened physicality. Misty has experience in LORT, Theatre for Young Audiences, and Small Professional Theatre. On-camera credits include independent film, commercials, and industrial video. Recently, Misty enjoyed the opportunity to play Stacy in
She is grateful for her loving and supportive family and friends. Misty feels she is
In 2003, Misty moved to DC and began exploring the depth and breadth of the DC theater scene. She is currently an associate artist with Constellation Theatre Company. She and Artistic Director Allison Stockman have been working together since shortly after Misty arrived in DC, and Misty enjoys collaborating with Allison any chance she gets. Constellation Theatre Company is dedicated to creating epic ensemble theatre that has visionary design and heightened physicality. Misty has experience in LORT, Theatre for Young Audiences, and Small Professional Theatre. On-camera credits include independent film, commercials, and industrial video. Recently, Misty enjoyed the opportunity to play Stacy in
Moon Hollow,a sit-com pilot currently being shopped around Hollywood.
She is grateful for her loving and supportive family and friends. Misty feels she is
living the dream.
Misty has had the acting "bug" since she was a toddler. She loved singing, dancing and anything to entertain people. It is no surprise that she is a good mother, by nature she is a caring and loving person. We only wish she would have stayed out here in California where we feel her career would be even more successful. She did great in Arizona and is doing wonderfully in D.C., so I guess no matter where she is she will be a star. Keep up the great work Misty. We miss you.
ReplyDelete