Actor Tony Danza discusses how he helps shape the stars — and generally good people — of tomorrow through his youth program.
Before becoming an entertainer, you were a teacher. How did that experience influence your perspective on the role of arts in education?
Teaching has influenced my thinking about kids and what they need. As a society, I think we have abdicated some responsibility for nurturing our children, and we have work to do. It’s been wonderful to be a part of The Stars of Tomorrow Project, which focuses on youth development through performance and allows them to discover the world and the tools to navigate it. It uses the art of acting to help students develop while mentoring and nurturing them in safe spaces. We provide young people places to express themselves while developing into productive world citizens and tomorrow’s leaders.
What kinds of skills does arts education help young people build, beyond just the ability to perform?
We have a slogan at the program, and we try to live by it: “When you teach a kid how to act, you teach a kid how to act!” If you think about it, most of the media — music, TV, movies, websites, and apps — that young people consume are often concerned with the self. Acting makes you be part of something bigger than yourself. It teaches you to be present, to look people in the eye, to speak clearly — all things you need to be successful in life. The program is a life program.
We make good actors. We have one from the program on Broadway right now; his name is Daniel Hernandez. I am so proud. But we also try to make good people.
Many students face self-doubt when pursuing a career in the arts. What advice do you have for those who are passionate but hesitant?
I have something that helps me, and it’s what I tell young actors: You have to truly believe that no one can do what you can do. You can’t do what Timothée Chalamet can do, but he can’t do what you can do. You have to really believe it and then not get in your own way.
How has your own teaching background influenced the way you advocate for arts education?
I have been performing now for 50 years, and before that, I used to put myself on the line in the boxing ring. My only regret is that I didn’t start in the arts when I was younger. It has transformative powers. We’ll have a kid come to the class, and all it takes is a short time before he or she is saying, “I have to support my ensemble!” The Stars of Tomorrow Project works!
Lastly, we are all thinking of you, LA!
