We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Carey Scott a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Carey, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s jump back to the first dollar you earned as a creative? What can you share with us about how it happened?
The first dollar I earned as an actor was appearing in an episode of “Archie Bunker’s Place” for CBS. It was very exciting because I was a big fan of “All in the Family” and knew what a legend Carroll O’Connor was. All my scenes were with him. I sat in Edith’s chair, and he sat in his now legendary chair. (Which now sits in the Smithsonian Institute!) It was an amazing start to my career. It got me my SAG card and started my career. He was wonderful to work with. I was scared to death in that first audition, wondering what I was even doing there. I went into the room with the casting director and read with her. As soon as I was done she said, “Come with me.” She took me upstairs to meet with the producer and the director. I read for them and days later I was sitting next to one of the greatest actors in the history of television. What a start!
Carey, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I am an actor, writer and director. I also have run my acting school, The Rehearsal Room, for the past 40 years. As an actor, I have performed in over 100 episodes of television, 50 feature films and multiple plays. As a writer / director, I have directed 3 feature films and 1 TV pilot. Most recently, I directed a film called “The Engagement Plan” for SONY Pictures that will be released later this year.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
Yes. I wrote a screenplay in 2008 that I immediately attracted a producer to. We have been trying to get this film made since then. 15 years! It’s incredibly hard to get a film made. Money, talent, etc. It’s a long journey. But, myself and my producer believed in this story so much that we never gave up on it. After 15 years, we have finally financed the film and we are casting it now. I will be directing the film in New Jersey in the late summer.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
“History has remembered the kings and warriors, because they destroyed; art has remembered the people, because they created.” – William Morris
I love this quote. History remembers warriors and artists. Artists are important. Artists got us through the pandemic. What did you do during the pandemic? Watch movies, listen to music, etc. Artists helped you get through a very difficult time.
More funds need to go into art school programs. Acting, singing, dancing, painting, etc. For me and my journey, math & science did not help me. But, those are required in school and art in not. Math, science, computer skills – that’s all good but it’s also anti-social. Young people need to learn social skills to live in the world. The arts help provide that.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.rehearsalroomacting.com