More than a few of the star-struck University of Southern California undergraduates lucky enough to be admitted to Theatre 397 came to class expecting to be handed the keys to the entertainment industry.
Instead, Jason Alexander–in residence this term at USC –gave them a challenge.
“I made it very clear to them the very first day: I don’t hold the keys to the industry; I don’t know anybody who does,” Alexander said . “The only thing that will virtually ensure your success is if you are undeniably good.”
Alexander tells students that hard work–not connections–will make them successful actors.
“Time after time, they see ‘personalities’ spawn into acting careers or looks spawn into careers,” Alexander said. “There’s a huge abundance of very limited talent doing very well. So it’s hard to say to them: ‘Work hard, work hard,’ when he ain’t workin’ hard, and he’s making 50 grand a week.”
Alexander is not referring to himself. While cracking jokes on “Seinfeld,” this dedicated actor was also attending classes with acting coach Larry Moss, sometimes far into the night.
But he tells students: “If you are looking for my career, good luck, I can’t tell you how to get it,” he said. “I stepped in the right puddle. Nobody thought ‘Seinfeld’ would be ‘Seinfeld.”‘
Although everyone expects Alexander to be as funny as his “Seinfeld” character, George Costanza, Alexander said he’s not. But he is dead serious about teaching college students to become better actors.
Alexander, an accomplished theater performer, is the George Burns Visiting Professor (thanks to a $1 million endowment to bring a theater professional to teach). He teaches Practical Acting Technique for Singers every Friday.
A Tony winner too
Jason Alexander is best known for his role as George Costanza in “Seinfeld.” But the Tony winner’s list of credits isn’t limited to the small screen.
LOS ANGELES STAGE:
– Defiled, 2000
– Promises, Promises, 1997
– Give ‘Em Hell, Harry, 1992
BROADWAY:
– Accomplice, 1990
– Jerome Robbins’ Broadway, 1989-90 (Tony award for best actor in a musical)
– Broadway Bound, 1986-88
