Graduation day is approaching and for many that means moving to New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles to pursue a career in acting. You’ve taken acting classes and your resume is in order. You’ve done some student films and have a reel. You’ve done all you can do and now it is time to move to the city.
Once you get there, get into an acting class. You need to keep your acting skills sharp so that when you have a chance to work, you’re ready. You also need to be connecting to other actors and taking classes is as much about creating a network as it is about learning to act.
With your new network in place, look for student film projects to audition for. Find out which casting director workshops are worth your time and audition for them. Audition for small theaters and play readings, which will keep your acting sharp and give people a chance to see you work. While waiting for work and auditions, keep your body in shape and stay healthy, mentally and physically.
Actor Conor O’Farrell, who has lived his life and raised his family as an actor, says you shouldn’t go into acting unless you are ready to deal with the lifestyle of a working actor. That means that when you get a job and make some money, save that money. It means waiting until you have some financial stability before starting a family. It means being willing to cancel plans at the last moment because an audition or job comes up.
Being a working actor challenges you personally, financially, and artistically, but it can be a wonderful life. If the lifestyle is not for you, that’s fine, but if it is, once you decide to make the leap…go for it with all you’ve got.
Eric Barr. All rights reserved
