Acting Quote by Michael Shurtleff
“To go into acting is like asking for admission to an insane asylum. Anyone may apply, but only the certifiably insane are admitted.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Art of Acting, 1975
Acting is likened to an asylum: many seek entry, but only those truly committed and willing to embrace chaos succeed.
In simple terms: Acting demands deep commitment and willingness to face chaos.
Key Takeaway
Embrace the madness to thrive in acting.
Themes
creativity
commitment
mental health
industry reality
Mood
candid
serious
Type
motivational
cautionary
When to use this quote
- audition preparation
- role immersion
- stress coping
- professional networking
- self‑care
Key Concepts
psychology
performance art
career risk
Questions to Reflect On
- Are you prepared for the emotional demands of acting?
- How can you maintain mental health in a chaotic field?
A Different Perspective
The metaphor may discourage newcomers or ignore supportive aspects of the community.
![“Humor [in a scene] is not jokes. It is that attitude toward being alive without which you would long ago have jumped off the 59th Street Bridge.” quote by Michael Shurtleff](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/504/michael-shurtleff-19554_acting_humor-in-a-scene-is-not-jokes-it-is-that_611053.jpg)
