Faith, Trust, and a Little Bit of Pixie Dust

Photo of Andi Carder from The Show Ponies Facebook Page

Not everyone has the guts to pack up their life and head to Hollywood, leaving behind friends, family, and security. Yet, little Andi Carder from Kingwood, Texas decided leave school and head to California, seeking opportunities of her own.

Andi and I first shared the stage together as Peter Pan and Jane in our high school production of "Peter Pan." She is now the singer for a traveling folk band called The Show Ponies, predominately known on the West Coast, but is now touring across America.

Before heading to California, Andi was attending St. Edward's University as a theatre student. The theatre department wasn't exactly to Andi's liking, with the cattiness of fellow students and the competitive environment. Andi's heart was telling her this wasn't her path.

"I felt like I was standing still," describes Andi. "My gut was telling me something else. So, I told my parents I was dropping out and going to California. It was super hard but it was something I felt I needed to do." That's guts for ya.

Andi found herself a support system of friends online to connect with once heading to Los Angeles. Her biggest advice for people interested in the entertainment business is to surround yourself with a group of people who will support you.

"I suggest a theatre company that believes in you or even people outside of theatre. You really need them when you start doubting yourself; they can pick you back up again."

Andi found her support system through her church and fellow employees at Lululemon. In 2012, she met up with her old friend from Kingwood, Jason Harris (guitarist), and Clayton Chaney (vocals, bass and harmonica) to form The Show Ponies, along with fiddle player, Philip Glen, and drummer, Kevin Brown.

Photo of the band members from The Show Ponies Facebook Page: 
(From left to right) Philip, Kevin, Andi, Clayton, and Jason. 

The band started playing in Los Angeles venues and weddings, but soon began to tour on the West Coast. The band is predominately funded by fans through a company called Ziibra, which allows subscribers to fund the band in exchange for monthly exclusive content.

"The website is great if your an artist and want to be sustainable," says Andi. "It really involves our fan base and creates an intimate relationship between the band and its fans."

The skills Andi has learned from years in theatre has continued into her performances on stage playing with the band.

The Show Ponies performing at Hawthorne Lounge.
 Photo Credit: Kate N Pdx

"The things I've learned from theatre, like being present in the moment and being comfortable on stage, I still practice when I'm performing. I guess that's why I like doing shows more than recording a song in the studio."

For those of you thinking of heading out to Los Angeles, Andi encourages people seeking a career to be confident and know the environment is very competitive.

"You have to be willing to hustle and can't expect things to come to you."

Of course, be sure to check out The Show Ponies! I saw them live after my interview with Andi and they are great! Such an energetic bunch!

Here's their recent music video of their hit "Run For Your Life" and be sure to check out their tour dates! They could be coming to a city near you!

The Show Ponies:
Website
Facebook
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Instagram: @theshowponies