Lord, but it's difficult to keep up with the responses on this thread, particularly since I didn't get in at the beginning.

Have never acted professionally, but started in community theater at KCU (now Univ of Mo at KC)when I was seven. Fondest memory is of being the youngest member of the chorus (age 14) in a production of OF THEE I SING (first musical to win a Pulitzer Prize). Did some acting in high school and some folk singing. I agree with whoever said it that it's MUCH more difficult to sing and play an instrument, up there by yourself, than it is to become someone else in a play. Decided not to pursue a singing career because I just flat out don't have the temperament for it. Get too nervous and I HATE auditioning for anything.

Sounds like we've got quite a few erstwhile actors in the mudhole...no wonder I feel at home.