20 Comments
User's avatar
Raymond's avatar

Hey Skro

I'm know I'm late to this party and its my first time commenting but damn it-

Henry hit the nail on the Head.

We all ask it at some point.

Why?

( Of course as narcissistic actors we also answer it - Why the fuck not?)

And that dichotomy really never ends till you're on the bench singing to yourself.

(did I use the big word right?)

Regardless, I don't know if any of this makes sense, but it's my stupid way of saying what everyone here already did.

This was so good.

Expand full comment
Steve Skrovan's avatar

Thank you, Ray. And yes, you used the big word correctly. Pronunciation (or as you might say, "pronunctiation") is another matter. Just know it is not pronounced "dick-to-me" as in "Stop being a dick to me."

Expand full comment
Joann Lassus's avatar

That didn't end up where I anticipated it would, and I'd never thought about acting in that way before. I loved this. And I may have missed the point, but have you considered going back into stand-up as a guitar act?

Expand full comment
Steve Skrovan's avatar

Ha! If only I could play the guitar...

Expand full comment
Joann Lassus's avatar

That hasn't stopped anyone else....

Expand full comment
Brendon Etter's avatar

I agree with Bob, too. The lesson did stick, as you demonstrate with the development of this story. As someone who acts in the amateur world, it's so hard to internalize as being in character, not performing as a character. The distinction is very nuanced, but you see it and hear it when you tune in. I think very few actors, even professional ones, ever get that far. Your acting in front of an empty house should be no different than the same character telling the same story in front of a sold-out theater. Thank you for a very meaningful clarification and application of this principle, Steve.

Expand full comment
Jeff Knapp's avatar

Very good Steve, really enjoyed it. I didn't realize all those epiphanies were going on.

Expand full comment
Steve Skrovan's avatar

It was an epiphany palooza.

Expand full comment
Jeanne S's avatar

This was certainly interesting and amusing but the meat of the piece for me began with Henry’s reply, “Why?” The way you wove the story was excellent. I enjoyed all of it. Thanks

Expand full comment
Mike Royce's avatar

Skro I enjoyed this a lot and believe strongly that you should look into this writing thing.

Expand full comment
Steve Skrovan's avatar

I don't know, Mike. You know me. I'm shy. Thanks anyway.

Expand full comment
Scott stewart's avatar

Was the goal of the class for you to become an actor, or just to improve your standup?

During this period were you “making a living” or “just surviving?”

Great writeup

Expand full comment
Steve Skrovan's avatar

To broaden my skill set. And I was making a living, if you call that living.

Thanks, Scottie!

Expand full comment
Allison Burnett's avatar

What's most remarkable about this essay is that it embodies the very principles it discusses. I think it's your least ingratiating and funny essay, and you're best. Bravo.

Expand full comment
Steve Skrovan's avatar

Thank you, Allison. That means a lot coming from you.

Expand full comment
Lara Olsen's avatar

So delightful. A one-two punch: amusing and authentic.

Expand full comment
peter fielding's avatar

I’m afraid I’ll say something stupid

Expand full comment
Stephen Caldwell's avatar

I like that you have always enjoyed singing for your supper. Me too. But it’s just possible that you have bought your supper by now, lol! However, the joy from that never fades, does it?? You are in a unique position, my friend! You have the Shoal Survivors available to you as a resource, and could do a uniquely Skro song with us! We even make recordings occasionally, lol! Failing that, you could always start your own Garage Band!!! The perfect thing to annoy Shelley with!

Expand full comment
Barbara Haynes's avatar

So, so, so good. Thank you for this fantastic piece!

Expand full comment
Caroline Manring's avatar

Wow

Expand full comment