Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Cosette Montemayor. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Cosette thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I feel like I could tell this story so many different ways. Really, I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t in love with performing. I was the annoying daughter that would tell my dad “stand here” as I belted out a musical theatre ballad. (Speaking of- thanks for not laughing, dad. I’m sure I sounded awful.) I wrote my first song at seven years old. I truly believed I was the next Hannah Montana. Spoiler Alert: I wasn’t, but that’s okay. I went through most of my younger life with rose-tinted glasses. Doesn’t everyone sing? Doesn’t everyone write stories in their free time? All of this to say, I was always involved in the arts without trying. I think the moment I took to theatre, specifically, had to be when I first saw Wicked (cue the eye rolls) at Dallas Summer Musicals. I was 9 years old. The ticket was actually my moms. She couldn’t make the show, so I went in her place. Going to see live theatre wasn’t an experience I indulged in… ever. I didn’t grow up with a lot of money, so for my dad to have these tickets was a big deal. I felt so fancy. We sat in the house and the lights went dim. Then started the first number, “No One Mourns The Wicked.” My life was never the same. My dad said I stayed in awe the entire time. I went home that night thinking “I am going to do that when I grow up!” Meanwhile, I am sure my dad was thinking “Ah, crap. She’s definitely going to be broke for the rest of her life.”

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

Hey, everyone! My name is Cosette Montemayor. I am an actor, singer, and playwright in the DFW area. I kind of dabble in everything. Well… everything except dancing. If I am dancing in a show– just know I fought my way through those rehearsals, girl. I think what sets me (and many of my good friends) apart from other performers is our insane hustle. As I stated before, I didn’t come from a wealthy family. I remember sitting on paint cans as a kid because we didn’t have furniture yet. I remember my mom crying over winning a work raffle because that meant I was getting a Christmas present that year. That stuff sticks with you, you know? I grew up watching my parents HUSTLE their way to a better life, and it inspired me to do the same. While I did find my way to a few amazing theatre classes at Collin Community College- I am so proud of how far I’ve gotten– purely by trial and error. If I’m booked- I’m blessed. If I’m not, I am working day jobs to make sure bills are paid- and still getting auditions in.
Recently, I have been involved in mostly film projects– but I have completed several vocalist contracts at different theme parks. I think I am still most proud of the national tour with our very own: Dallas Children’s Theater in 2018/2019. I go back and forth between feeling super proud of all I’ve accomplished- and then wanting to sweep it under the rug. It feels weird showcasing myself like this, but here we are. Let’s both act super important to make this life interesting. Deal? Deal.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect is the constant exposure to new elements. New ideas, new places, and new people. Every contract, I am anxious beyond reason.

Will I get lost? What If everyone hates me? What if I can’t keep up?

Fast forward to the end– and the venue becomes a second home. The people become chosen family. The show becomes a safe space. It is such an amazing, intoxicating cycle.
Of course, I could go on and on about the magic performers feel while being on stage. But I don’t think I could truly ever put it into words.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

I know I am talking your ear off, here. So I will keep this short. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert. It is the most inspiring book I have ever read. I feel like she beat up my impostor syndrome, opened my heart, and SANG to it! Let her sing to your heart too! “Do whatever brings you to life, then. Follow your own fascinations, obsessions, and compulsions. Trust them. Create whatever causes a revolution in your heart.”

Contact Info:

• Website: www.cosettemontemayor.com
• Instagram: @Cosettemontemayor

Image Credits
Photos by: Cassie Gonzales, David K Images, Isaiah Navarro