The Power of Showing Up: Lessons from Marc Shaiman’s Journey

When it comes to achieving dreams, the key often lies in the simple act of showing up. Award-winning composer Marc Shaiman, known for his work on Broadway and major film productions, embodies this principle throughout his illustrious career. From his early days in theater to composing for major films and television series, Shaiman’s journey is a testament to the value of seizing opportunities and perseverance.

A Journey Defined by Presence

Marc Shaiman’s career spans over five decades and includes iconic productions like Hairspray and Catch Me If You Can. The openly queer artist has become a celebrated figure in the entertainment industry, yet he credits much of his success to his willingness to show up.

“Put my picture under the dictionary definition for being in the right place at the right time,” Shaiman expresses. His advice to aspiring artists is simple yet profound: “Show up. Say yes to everything.” This philosophy not only opened doors for him but also helped him build lasting relationships with industry legends such as Rob Reiner and Bette Midler.

The Importance of Taking Risks

Shaiman recalls a pivotal moment early in his career when he chose to chase an opportunity with Bette Midler. Despite being based in New York and learning that Midler was specifically hiring Los Angeles-based artists for her world tour, he took a leap of faith. He booked a last-minute flight to Los Angeles and asked Midler directly about rehearsals.

“Would I do that nowadays? I don’t know,” he admits. “But when you’re young and fearless, you do things like that.” His willingness to take risks paid off, leading to fruitful collaborations that greatly influenced his career.

Reflecting on the Past

In his recent memoir, Never Mind the Happy: Showbiz Stories from a Sore Winner, Shaiman revisits the formative experiences that shaped his passion for theater and music. From sneaking away to see shows to working in community theater, these experiences instilled in him a sense of belonging and creative exploration.

“My few years doing community theater were filled with joyous moments,” he describes. “I made lifelong friends and discovered my passion for musical theater.” These early memories laid the groundwork for the resilience and creativity he would later bring to his professional endeavors.

Learning from the Experience

As Shaiman reflects on his career, he emphasizes the joy of storytelling, whether on stage or in writing. “I started writing to remind myself of the joyous things I’ve done,” he shares. “I realized there’s something profound about capturing experiences in words rather than just sharing them verbally.”

This sentiment is a valuable takeaway: revisiting your journey can help reinvigorate your passion and highlight the progress you’ve made.

Building Community

Shaiman’s experiences navigating the artistic landscape extend to his insights on LGBTQ+ representation in the industry. He remarks on the rich tapestry of gay culture in both New York and Los Angeles, particularly how the 1980s AIDS crisis impacted his community. Despite the challenges, he found solace in the collective spirit of the showbiz world, filled with creativity and acceptance.

“Thank god I grew up without shame about my identity,” he states. His story serves as an important reminder of the ongoing fight for visibility and acceptance within and beyond the arts.

Celebrating Contemporary Voices

With an ever-evolving industry, Shaiman expresses excitement for emerging talents and stories that resonate with today’s audiences. He mentions shows like Heated Rivalry, which beautifully blend emotional resonance and queer representation. “It’s phenomenal to see how many people can resonate with authentic stories, despite the harsh realities we often face,” he says.

Conclusion: Embrace Opportunities

Marc Shaiman’s journey is a compelling reminder that success often comes down to simply showing up and wholeheartedly embracing opportunities. Whether you are an aspiring artist or navigating another field, the message remains clear: take risks, reflect on your experiences, and build connections. As Shaiman demonstrates, life is full of unexpected turns, and every opportunity is a chance to learn, grow, and move closer to your aspirations.

Never Mind the Happy: Showbiz Stories from a Sore Winner is now available, capturing messiness, victories, and the importance of keeping your dreams alive.