I have often pondered on why I enjoy acting - never more so, than on an opening night when I am standing in the wings waiting to go on. At these times I actually question my sanity! Even after all these years, I don't think I have ever found a definitive answer to that question ... except, I just do!
I do think that there is a large element of enjoying being someone other than yourself. It is a thrill to get into the mind of another 'human being', and exciting to be able to act things as a character, that you would never do in 'real life'. So is the answer escapism? To a certain extent, I think maybe it is.
I am going to remain silent on this subject now, as I am going to post this blog to other actors I know, and see what list we draw up between us .... literally watch this space!