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jealousy?

jealousy?

Posted on Aug 15th

Do you guys ever see an actor/actress who is relatively close in age with you, same ethnicity etc etc, but they’re like hella successful and you just get filled with jealousy? I’ve had to block certain actors bc of this. It’s also not that I wish bad on them, it’s more like I wish i was in that position in my life as well. Is there a healthy mechanism you guys know to grow out of this mindset and stop getting jealous?

Hello. I’m new.

Hello. I’m new.

Posted on Aug 15th

I’m 20 years old from Alaska and I’m starting from scratch in the acting industry. That means I don’t have an acting agency, I haven’t taken any acting classes, and I haven’t audition in any theaters, shows, or movies. The only thing I have are acting résumé, headshot (unprofessional), and demo reel (technically compilations of my TikTok videos. I know. That’s not enough and it’s bad). The reason I’m trying to be an actress is because I loved watching behind the scene videos and action movies (I know this isn’t a good motive since I haven’t tried it out first, but I’ll give it a try). Plus, my primary career is crashing down at the moment. So, I was thinking to start acting and see how it goes. However, I can’t find any auditions in my hometown and I’m trying my best to hide this from my parents since they would rather have me follow through my primary career than acting. So, I’m here to ask: where/how do I start my acting career?

Do I need a professionally recorded demo if...

Do I need a professionally recorded demo if...

Posted on Aug 15th

So here's my question, I'm not trying to come off as cocky or arrogant, this is a question I need an answer to. Do you think I need a professionally produced demo if I am a good writer, know how to professionally mix and master my audio, and I already have an acting coach to direct me? I have always been good at writing. I won a scholarship in college against several thousand other students for an analysis I did of A Bar at the Folies Bergere by Manet. I have had several articles published in big publications. I feel like writing some copy for a fake ad or for a character reel should be no problem for me. I also have a very nice home studio with proper gear and sound treatment. I make music and have been mixing and mastering audio for years. I took an acting class from a Hollywood actor who is not super well known but has several big movies on his IMDB page. He will direct me when I make my reel. Should I still hire a professional if I have these skills and resources? I'd prefer to save the money if I can. Will a professional give me something I can't already do for myself besides the obvious?

Who is vanesu samuniyai?

Who is vanesu samuniyai?

Posted on Aug 15th

And how did she get the role on The Sandman? I keep reading she’s a “Zimbabwe actress” but she has no IMDB credits?

Embarrassing BG moment

Embarrassing BG moment

Posted on Aug 14th

Hey all, I’m new here but I just had to share this moment from my very first background gig this week (2 night shoots). And wanted to know if anyone else has had these experiences on set as background? We were filming at a theme park for a tv show and right away I noticed this one BG actor seemed like he was definitely on something or at the very least VERY strange. So during the last shot of the day (in the blazing sun) they placed me with the weird guy and one other girl in foreground with a stroller. They yell action and the girl and I start are very natural “normal” fake convo, and all of a sudden the dude starts faking that he is angry and yelling at the baby in the stroller. And I mean like HUGE arm motions, over the top, totally crazy fake yelling and pointing. The girl and I had no idea what to do. They didn’t seem to notice the first time, but during the second take, HE DID IT AGAIN! And even more over the top. Then the main actor (pretty well know guy) stopped during his take to ask the guy if we were with them (he thought maybe we were just random people) the crazy guy said “uh yeah” and the actor was like “oh ok sorry” but I could tell he was trying to nicely make a point that this guy was being distracting. Then the assistant director came over and had us move out of frame, and a minute later the pa removed all background from the scene (including the people behind us). I felt so embarrassed to have been roped in with this dude and his random wild actions, and had no idea what to do in that situation and for the fact that the main actor was the one to say something! And the worst part was the dude just thought it was funny and laughed walking away like “guess I must’ve scared him with my yelling at the baby”. I didn’t say anything and just kept walking. Have you guys ever had or witnessed a moment like this with background work? I imagine they have a lot of wild stories since they don’t really vet any background people ahead of the project. It just sucks when you’re trying to be professional and other people don’t seem to care if they ruin a take.

Moved to Atlanta

Moved to Atlanta

Posted on Aug 14th

I just moved to Atlanta and I’m looking for projects to work on in the area I’m on actors access and sent to a few casting background agencies but haven’t heard back is there anyone who has advice on where to go to look for castings that will book and what agencies to apply to here in Atlanta?

Is a tenor/bass or bass 2 male voice actor in necessity?

Is a tenor/bass or bass 2 male voice actor in necessity?

Posted on Aug 14th

I've had a few people tell me I should do podcasts or something because I can have a nice deep voice ... I just don't know how much necessity there is for a deep voice...

Can a “middle class wealth” actor survive hollywood?

Can a “middle class wealth” actor survive hollywood?

Posted on Aug 14th

I know some of you guys have read Sydney’s take on finances in Hollywood but I’m really curious, to anyone who’s pursuing acting in Hollywood. What are your thoughts on finances? Is it possible to survive as an actor if you’re only in middle class?

Do not blame BIPOC actors for your lack of success.

Do not blame BIPOC actors for your lack of success.

Posted on Aug 14th

TL;DR Overall, 60% of all roles in film, tv, and theater are cast as white. Please do not use racism as an excuse to why you’re not working. A recent post from a successful actor in this subreddit got me *heated*. This actor blamed his lull of work to “his sort of roles trending towards other races” which is a racist assumption. What does that even mean? Actors have no idea why roles are being cast as they are. We can’t know that unless a casting director or producer shares that insider information. We may not ever know why we book or don’t book a job- your manager may have fucked up your submission, they need someone shorter than the lead actor, the producer thinks you look like his ex, etc. No matter what reason the idea that “people of color taking my job” is a dangerous, ignorant, egotistical, and a fucked up assumption. If want to look at the facts, UCLA creates a comprehensive report of Hollywood’s Diversity in [film](https://socialsciences.ucla.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/UCLA-Hollywood-Diversity-Report-2021-Film-4-22-2021.pdf) and [television](https://socialsciences.ucla.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/UCLA-Hollywood-Diversity-Report-2021-Television-10-26-2021.pdf). And the Asian American Performers Action Coalition does reports on racial representation in [NYC theaters](http://www.aapacnyc.org/2018-2019.html).

What voice actors have the best screams?

What voice actors have the best screams?

Posted on Aug 14th

There's a video making the rounds on Twitter of some of Mel Blanc's screams for his iconic characters. Between him and William Hanna's screams for Tom and Jerry, what other voice actors would you say have pretty impressive pipes?

Don’t be like this person.

Don’t be like this person.

Posted on Aug 14th

Worked on a shoot today and it was for an indie film with a small crew, an actress who was literally hired for 1 scene was one of the most demanding and rudest divas I have worked with in a long time. She spoke so poorly to every crew member, tried to speak over and give “notes” to the director and gave everyone else her “advice” in the green room. It doesn’t matter where you are in the pecking order just be humble ffs. Especially when you’re literally a minor role like that. I’ve even worked with extras that carry this complex around with them, like seriously, why ?!

Demo reels

Demo reels

Posted on Aug 14th

I’m a beginner actor and I’ve done stage acting for 4 years . I’m trying to do screen acting and many agencies are asking for demo reels . How do I do that with no type of screen acting footage

failed a broadway callback and still think about it

failed a broadway callback and still think about it

Posted on Aug 14th

I auditioned for Dear Evan Hansen at one of those cattle calls back when I was like seventeen and got called back almost three years later (a few months ago). It appeared in an email with a zoom appointment with the entire artistic staff -- a complete surprise. They were looking for an understudy replacement for zoe/alana for a date that has come and gone. I'm kind of silly about it-- I gingerly check my emails daydreaming. I occasionally search my gmail for keywords ("DEH" "TARA RUBIN" "my name") basically everything under the sun in case some sort of mail was lost. I spent a lot of time thinking about everything I could have done better over zoom or what could have happened if covid wasn't a thing and we went straight to in-person auditions and this and that. Lots of what if's and a lot of regret and guilt for not doing better. I had these sides to learn and this and that and it was just a lot of variables that dance in my head. ​ Because I didn't receive an email or anything back the part of me that still has a bit of hope keeps itching at the bug bite like one day I'll magically receive the coveted email to move onto the next stage (likely in-person interviews etc. based on the email) but at the end of the day these things just happen. And I know that, and I was fine with it for a while-- but I've been thinking about it the last few weeks and what "could have been" like one of those unscratchable itches. ​ I really wish they had sent a formal rejection or some sort of email to end off the interaction and zoom meeting because there's an anxious part of me that is thinking xyz (even if unreasonable). And I really just don't know what to do about it in my mind-- like where to place it. Actors getting rejected is just such a common thing but it's really difficult to wonder about how many variables could have resulted in me moving to NY and my entire life flipping on its head. ​ I got soooo close!!! but not close enough. ​ I guess I don't know what I mean to get out of posting this-- Part of the reason is only my immediate family and close friends know I even auditioned in the first place because I wanted to keep it private. I guess I wanted to put my feelings into words somewhere. I mean-- I'll be fine, and I know my email excavation is very silly, the rejection was implied with no follow up email. These things happen. But MANNNN!!! ​ I wonder what to really do from here. Keep on keeping on-- and stop checking my email haha. I wish I knew what went wrong, but I guess that's the mystery of all auditions.

Actors based in Atlanta how’s it going for you?

Actors based in Atlanta how’s it going for you?

Posted on Aug 13th

I’m planning on moving to Atlanta next year and hopefully start my acting career. I’ve heard plenty of nice things from the city but I would love feedback

Sad and weird situation

Sad and weird situation

Posted on Aug 13th

Is another network co star role (rhymes with shash bee oh) worth doing if travel/per diem/hotel isn't offered and I'd probably spend more than I make? Weird situation is I'm sort of being submitted by a known sag franchised agency that is submitting me, as well as a manager overseeing stuff, but I haven't signed with either. Could be due to the fact I promised them (via email) that I'd hook them up with more than above average commission, for a first role (up to co star) before they had to sign me. I have a good film look I guess, terrible commercial look, and 6 credits but they're all pretty good considering I've only been in the biz a lil over a year. For context, I have 2 network co stars (fx/nbc) both with speaking roles with A-B listers, plus a leading role in a non union Indy with a budget of 200k and a good supporting role with a sag low budget film with a budget of 2M ish, and a few scenes with another popular actress. I turned sag E within a month of acting class (Chicago PD/NBC) (Jan 21') and was Taft Hartley-Ed into the next union gig (FX/The Bear) then got a union feature (strong supporting) gig within my OK-30 status. I'm a must join now. I haven't worked since then and have started auditioning for series regular stuff and was pinned for my first one day guest star (but was released from first refusal a couple weeks ago

I was hired by an actor as a branding consultant. How much does social media help in landing a gig? What content should he publish?

I was hired by an actor as a branding consultant. How much does social media help in landing a gig? What content should he publish?

Posted on Aug 13th

I am asking this question because my client doesn’t post much on social media. He has a talent agent and I respect that it isn’t in his personality to post videos and pictures on his feed daily. Also, I do improvising as a hobby and see some actor/improviser friends hustle too much online. They post too much videos and some of it seem like just a cry for attention. It can get annoying. I don’t want my client to project desperation into the world. So, what type of content should he put out just for people to know that he wants to get into acting? How can social media attract casting directors? As for his natural experience, He currently as a lot of videos on hosting because made his own documentary. He also beatboxes and does martial arts. He wants to get into hosting. I pitched him to do podcasts and YouTube video where he comments and gives expert advice on pop culture (movies, reality tv shows) as an occupational therapist/beatboxed/martial arts expert and wildlife life hunter. Is this is a good thing?

How to start?

How to start?

Posted on Aug 13th

I'm not sure is that common question, or just outrageous one. But how to start voice acting I mean I done this twice for my purpose, but it was just bad as you can expect form someone who never done this. I would like to improve my self, to work in some projects. Without experience, and good microphone (I'm using blue snowball) I wouldn't even try to waste time, someone who's looking for voice actors in any paid job. I'm not native English speaker, and due to my luck in English lessons in school, I got tendency to messing up pronunciations. That's why I think I need to practice a lot. So where I can find any community auditions, or other fandub auditions? Oh and a bit off topic but how you guys avoid killing your voice after speaking in other voices? Like if I'm not speaking in my normal speaking voice in something like 15mins my throat is hurting, so I'm defiantly doing something wrong. Hope my questions are not too stupid, I'm sorry if they are.

I know I’m meant to be an actor but I don’t know how to get there.

I know I’m meant to be an actor but I don’t know how to get there.

Posted on Aug 13th

Hiya, my name is Robert and I know I’m made to act. I’ve always had an overactive imagination and sense of immersion which lets me really easily feel powerful emotions and feelings. I know acting is something i would thrive at but I just don’t know how to get there. Help please!

I'm a full time professional actor/singer/performer who is looking to get into voice acting/voiceover work. Looking for any help and advice!

I'm a full time professional actor/singer/performer who is looking to get into voice acting/voiceover work. Looking for any help and advice!

Posted on Aug 13th

So whether it's relevant or not, it's been my career for bout 10 years now. Full time singing and acting, on stage mostly. Im pretty embedded in that space, but have always wanted to do voice acting. I'm interested in the whole spectrum of it, from going for character work in shows and video games, to doing small voiceover jobs for companies, commercials, etc etc. ​ I'm just looking for any and all help/advice from people experienced in these areas. I have a friend who is willing to help set me up with his agent, and thats all well and good but I am just really looking for anything anyone has to offer me in the ways of advice or direction. ​ I have a Microphone, the brand/model is a Rode NT-USB USB Condenser Microphone. It's brand new, a friend recommended it to me, so any feedback on the quality and capacity of this mic in the world of voiceover work would be great as well! ​ I've seen a few of these kinds of posts sprout up over the last couple weeks, so I do apologize if this is redundant on this sub. But I would greatly appreciate any and all advice! Whether its websites to sign up and work off of, where to make certain profiles, what equipment/set ups work best for just starting out, etc etc. ​ I'm willing to put a lot of work and effort into this so hit me with whatever you got, I know I could carve out a space for myself and I'm confident I'd be good at it, I just need some help on where and how to start. ​ Thanks!

How would you use Flight Benefits to give you a leg up in this industry?

How would you use Flight Benefits to give you a leg up in this industry?

Posted on Aug 13th

My girlfriend is an actress. She wants to be on screen in any capacity and here in Minneapolis there are only so many options. We just got a film tax credit so hopefully there will be more opportunities soon. in the meantime, she's been talking about wanting to move to another market. LA or Atlanta come to mind, but I came up with an idea that might be worth looking into. Since I work for an airline, we get free domestic flights and discounted international. How would you use this benefit to your advantage as an actor? Is this something that she can utilize to find (ideally paid) on-screen work around the country? Can you even market something like that to an agency?

Inspiring or deflating to see Blockbuster movies with lead actors who little to no acting experience?

Inspiring or deflating to see Blockbuster movies with lead actors who little to no acting experience?

Posted on Aug 13th

I recently watched Easter Sunday, Prey, and Crazy Rich Asians in the same weekend. Prey's Dakota Beavers is tremdendously good, gets wild action scenes, dramatic emotional moments. And he's never acted in anything before this film. Henry Golding had never acted before Crazy Rich Asians. And quite a few people from Easter Sunday have relatively small IMDB credits. Do you find it inspiring or deflating? I personally find it inspiring. Your life can change with the right role. I dont think seeking blockbuster level fame is realistic and its not why we do it. But its so cool how your life can change if everything does comes into place.

Self taught acting?

Self taught acting?

Posted on Aug 12th

I don't have any particularly high aspirations, apart from just improving on the skill of acting just for the sake of fun. I do want to become as good as I can be, but it's just for myself. That being said, I still want to become good at it. So here's my question: Can I become a good actor by learning and acting on my own? My goal is to learn as much as I can about acting using resources online, as well as studying human behaviors in a social context and seek to accurately act out a certain emotion, or complex set of emotions, embodied in a script that I will write then act out. I will most likely record it, and critique it myself through harsh criteria. And through doing this, I hope to maybe teach myself how to act. Down the line, I wouldn't be against learning with other people, but I don't know if I'll want to do that for quite some time. Does this seem like something which could plausibly give some benefit? TL;DR Can I teach myself to act on my own, through a combination of learning as much as I can about the topic and writing scripts and recording myself acting them out? I'd be willing to adjust how I approach recording myself acting based on new information learned, of course.

If you booked a lead role on a commercial, or a film, or TV project - what would your process in preparing for it be?

If you booked a lead role on a commercial, or a film, or TV project - what would your process in preparing for it be?

Posted on Aug 12th

I've not booked anything yet, however I've auditioned for a few projects recently and haven't heard back. In the meantime I was wondering how other actors prepare before a project so I'd love to hear how you prepare for various things; for example, I've heard of actors hitting the gym religiously before starting to film main roles on film & TV to make sure they have enough stamina to endure long hours on set and look their best (even if the character doesn't require lots of strength or fitness). I've heard of actors also getting facials and beauty treatments just before filming, like teeth whitening or haircuts/colouring. How does that adapt if, say, you got a commercial? How do *you* prepare for a role?

UK actors - Spotlight question

UK actors - Spotlight question

Posted on Aug 12th

When you have an agent, and they give you "nudge access" or "full access", do you still only see the breakdowns you'd see without an agent, or do you also see the ones sent to agents that might match your profile?

Why casual conversations with (some) actors feel so fake?

Why casual conversations with (some) actors feel so fake?

Posted on Aug 12th

From all my lifetime, I met two people who did acting. One was a theatre actor and the other did for TV. They are both very energetic, loves to talk and have lots of friends. The thing is, they both kinda lacks the authenticity when talking. When I say something slightly funny they laugh out loud, or something slightly sad they show to be very empathetic, but moments later they are in "another vibe"... In other words, they overreact yet it feels very unnatural. Both of them told me how acting changed their lives for the better, they learned to manage their emotions and improved their social skills, but in my judgement, it actually made them use sociability and emotions as a tool to interact with the world but not being apart of it. Now before someone say "not all are like that" or "I'm not like that", i want to be clear that i don't think acting makes people sociopaths, they might have something else instead of just acting, but the fact that both never met each other, yet they both did acting and appear very artificial in social interactions is a weird coincidence, and I don't doubt there are thousands of actors just like them, which is a bit concerning imo.

A trailer just came out for a movie I’m in

A trailer just came out for a movie I’m in

Posted on Aug 12th

And I’m not in one second of it, even though I have a strong supporting role. I know I did an awful bland job. They have all the other actors pictures on the movie Instagram page except mine, they’re following all the other actors but me. I’m 33 and I dedicated my whole life to this with nothing to show for it, I’m poor and have no friends and am talentless. I am a stupid negative narcissist and I wish I was dead

Video Editor being consistently asked to do VO for corporate.

Video Editor being consistently asked to do VO for corporate.

Posted on Aug 12th

I’d like some advice on whether or not I’m being taken advantage of. I’m a video editor for a decently large company (300+ employees) and about 6 months ago I started being asked to do temp VO for some corporate commercial spots since I have a full audio setup from having been a producer and audio mixer, as well as former performance experience. Well some people started liking my VO, and asked to keep it as the official VO. “Cool!”, I thought. Then I slowly started to get a few more requests for VO for small commercials, internal videos, and call center machine messages. I now get a request for VO almost every month, and none of them offer any additional compensation. Granted, I did accept the work I’ve done willingly, and at the beginning I even offered my VO since it sounded like a cool one-off, but this is in no way part of my job description. Aside from myself not being compensated for additional work and skills, we have hired outside VO talent less and less since I’m now considered a “free option”. I don’t like that I’m taking away work from full time voice actors, and it feels even worse since instead of them being paid for VO, now no one is! Is it unreasonable for me to feel taken advantage of in this situation? Would it be reasonable to ask my workplace for compensation for this work that is very clearly outside of my duties as a video editor? The main reason I ask is that soon my boss might want me to do a bunch of VO for a huge convention we put on every year, and I’d hope someone would get paid for such big work, even if it’s not me.

Question About the Green Apples Trick for VO

Question About the Green Apples Trick for VO

Posted on Aug 12th

I've heard that, to reduce mouth noise, many voice actors eat a green apple. I have a couple of questions about it... 1. Is there a certain type of green apple that works better than others? 2. How long before recording do you eat the apple? Immediately before seems like it would make your mouth noisier. Thanks!

Exploring how to be a Holistic Actor/Artist/human being

Exploring how to be a Holistic Actor/Artist/human being

Posted on Aug 12th

Hello! I just put up a YouTube video about how I remain a holistic Actor, there's so much to explore within this topic and something I'm always trying to improve, would love any and all feedback/discussion! [https://youtu.be/4kSYjsbcidQ](https://youtu.be/4kSYjsbcidQ)

I have been invited on set by a famous actor/producer for a celebrity shoot. If I get to go (COVID restrictions) what should I look to get out of the experience?

I have been invited on set by a famous actor/producer for a celebrity shoot. If I get to go (COVID restrictions) what should I look to get out of the experience?

Posted on Aug 12th

Basically what the title says. Some backstory: 5 years ago my dad was on a flight from LA back home and sat next to a successful English actor who has had a lengthy career and they hit it off. He told him about me as I was in high school at the time doing music and had just done my first musical and was cast in another one. The man kindly offered to give me a chance to be on set/tour a studio if we were ever in LA, and not really being able to afford a random trip we sort of wrote it off. I’m now a senior in college for acting and going to LA with my girlfriend for a week because she’s from Venice, CA. I remembered that meeting and asked my dad about it, so he emailed the guy and he responded literally within 20 minutes that Covid protocol allowing he’d be more than happy to meet me. He seems extremely generous and I couldn’t be more thankful for even the opportunity, regardless of if it happens. If I am cleared to go, what should I observe/ask about? I want to be friendly but professional, and I don’t want to come off as desperate but I’m curious if there is a way to forward my future career from the experience. They say it’s who you know after all, but “networking” feels super artificial and shallow, and I don’t want my presence and “eagerness” to interfere with the actual job they’re all there to do. Thank you for any advice!

Demo reel

Demo reel

Posted on Aug 12th

Hello! I'm an aspiring voice actor, and I just made my first demo reel! I'm very happy how this turned out. I would like feedback- but more so, advice on how to use this new tool that I have. if anyone has any tips for marketing themselves as a voice actor I'd love to hear! anyways, here's the demo [https://soundcloud.com/hlg-rugs/character-demo-2022?si=8b2f14a87c0d4c27a9cc982c61b51b01&utm\_source=clipboard&utm\_medium=text&utm\_campaign=social\_sharing](https://soundcloud.com/hlg-rugs/character-demo-2022?si=8b2f14a87c0d4c27a9cc982c61b51b01&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing) (P.S I'm currently having a demo card created)

Questions about unemployment.

Questions about unemployment.

Posted on Aug 12th

So I saw a post few days ago and found out actors can collect unemployment between jobs and my mind was blown. I had no idea this was an option. I realize each market might be different, but for those who do it/have done it, I had a few questions. 1. Do you need to be union? I'm SAG-e right now and my agent prefers me to stay there atm. I honestly would have a conversation with them about joining if this was strictly a union thing. 2. Is this perpetual? How long can you not book and still have this as an option and is there a set amount of auditions you need to be going out for? I'm in a smaller market so auditions come through about once a month on average. 3. Is the rate based on the rate of your last job or is it just a flat rate? 4. If you do gig work, do you need to stop doing gig work for a set amount of time to qualify? Don't need to answer them all, but any info on the subject would be appreciated

Do agents know if you self submit on Actors Access?

Do agents know if you self submit on Actors Access?

Posted on Aug 12th

I've been continuing to self submit after signing on with my agent two years ago. With them, I get maybe three auditions a year, and no communication otherwise. But now I wonder if they've been able to see all my self submissions?

Headshot-Age Range-Character Type Feedback

Headshot-Age Range-Character Type Feedback

Posted on Aug 11th

Use this thread to post your headshots for feedback, get info on your age range/type, find good headshot photographers, ask any questions you may have about headshots. If you are posting a DIY headshot for feedback, and not just a snapshot in order to get feedback on your age range/type/etc, it is advised that you do at least some basic research on what actor headshots look like--composition, framing, lighting. You will find a Google Image search for "actor headshots" to be very helpful for this. Non-professional shots are fine for age/typecasting; please keep in mind that one picture is a difficult way to go about this. Video of you moving and speaking would be ideal, but understandably more difficult to post. For what it's worth, the branding workshop at SAG-AFTRA recommends a five-year age range. That's inclusive, so for example 19-23, 25-29, 34-38, etc.

Declining Auditions

Declining Auditions

Posted on Aug 11th

I really like my agents. I had a awkward situation a few years ago where I accidentally pissed off an casting agent for repeatedly declining their auditions and had to explain to my agency that I really dont like that kind of work. (it doesn't pay well, its doesn't help my demo reel, and its not enjoyable. I had done it in the past and basically felt like that was enough. I've done my time.) They were totally nice and understanding and stopped submitting me to that kind of gig. Over the years I told myself if I was going to be more particular about the auditions I take otherwise I'm going to be burned out by all the stuff that I don't enjoy. I want to have fun with it otherwise its not worth it. And I felt justified with that decision after sitting in on an actors lecture with a great acting professor (that works with the folks in an casting agency I love and have been dying to work with) that said you should consider 1. does it help me build my resume? 2. does it help me financially? 3. does it satisfy me artistically? So I've been going at my pace, which is slower, but much more enjoyable. But... I just got nervous again after declining an audition yesterday from a casting agent that I often decline. Something about this casting agent reminds me of the agent that got upset with me 5 years ago. 1. the guy seems like a prick, so I don't care to get on his radar. just like the lady from before. 2. the auditions are just boring commercials... 3. more importantly he ALWAYS asks to see actors hands.. I once submitted to him because the rate was so good but he quickly sent a mass email back saying "NO WONKY FINGERS OR SUPRISES" I assumed that was directed at me because I have significant scarring on my hands after a bad accident. because his attitude reminds me of the lady from years ago I'm afraid of him aggressively saying something to my agent (rather than just quietly going under the radar of declines amongst the other actors)and looking bad with my agent Do you think I should reach out to my agent and explain my hand situation and all the declines before he might? I've told them about my hand and declining auditions but I wouldn't expect them to necessarily remember given all the other actors they work with. I dont want to make a big deal about it at all... but like I said this guy reminds me of the lady that made a big deal about it a while back.

I think this is how early success works

I think this is how early success works

Posted on Aug 11th

I was thinking about this at work haha. Alot of early successful actors have all of their training done by high school. They've been taking classes outside of school at a local theater or with a series of coaches. And they have done extra work in tv or shorts or hometown movies. Essentially, they're just ready and feel confident enough in their skill sets and their bodies to just be ready to be seen. And if you can get there when you're 19 or 32,etc...you'll be ready. The rub is that most media is made for the 18-24 crowd.

Is Casting Networks' premium membership worth it?

Is Casting Networks' premium membership worth it?

Posted on Aug 11th

I have actors access, and it's paid off for me, but I'm wondering if I should invest in Casting Networks. 300$ dollars is a bit much!

Seeing active series regulars at commercial auditions

Seeing active series regulars at commercial auditions

Posted on Aug 11th

Probably an unpopular opinion, but it chaps my ass. It does. And I know that celebs take away VO work and commercial work and well, lotsa work. I’m just talking about “unknown” successful actors on broadcast TV being at a working class actor commercial audition. I’ve never been an on-camera series reg but I just feel like I would opt out of auditioning for commercials for the time that I was…let others have some pie, ya know? Instead of trying to gobble it all up myself. But I don’t have major gambling debts. I do have kids and student loans tho.

Advice on going to LA or NYC for training?

Advice on going to LA or NYC for training?

Posted on Aug 11th

Personal Advise on if I should go to LA or NYC for training? So I know there are a lot of posts about LA vs NYC, but I wanted to see if I could get some advise about my specific situation and which would end up being the better option for me. I’m really looking to move out to one of these cities to get training. That’s what I really want to focus on right now, and I’m really interested in doing a 2 year Meisner program. During Covid I did a meisner summer intensive and a 1st year Meisner program all online with a teacher in LA, and I really loved it, and want to do a full 2 year program in person. What I’m having trouble with is deciding if I should do the 2 year Meisner program with that teacher I really loved in LA, or to do it with one of the studios in NYC like Esper studio or Terry Knickerbocker studios. I really loved the teacher I had who’s in LA, and think he’s fantastic, but I’d only really be going out there for his class, as I like NYC as a city much more than LA. I like how close everything is too each other and how I don’t need a car, and how there’s lots of theater and film out there. I also have a lot more actor friends and mentors out there in LA. The thing I’m nervous about with NYC is if I don’t end up loving the teacher I get out there. So I guess to sum it up, would be better to go to a city that I don’t love as much as NYC, but I’m with a teacher who I love and trust, or do I go to NYC which has more of what I want in a city and the people I know, but go there not knowing if I enjoy the teacher I’m getting? Thank you!!!

Taking Class from another city? Teacher turned actor!

Taking Class from another city? Teacher turned actor!

Posted on Aug 11th

Does anyone have experience taking online (like virtual live classes, not recorded) acting class/lessons with a teacher or studio in another city? I’m a music teacher and can’t relocate or leave my job at this time. I have never taken acting classes, but have quite a bit of educational and community theatre acting experience, as well as my music degree in voice. I’m looking to branch out to acting on screen and really learn more about the acting process. I feel like my research is pointing to Los Angeles as the hub of TV/Film casting at the moment. Since I can’t move yet, I wanted to try to network virtually in other, bigger markets. I feel like half of the battle of starting out is just getting in the room. I am still submitting myself for things near me to try and get some professional credits on my resume, but knowing other working actors seems helpful for the long run. Might be able to recommend me for better classes, headshots, etc. Would taking class with a studio in LA virtually be beneficial? Anyone have any LA/NYC virtual acting class recommendations?

If Mary Kay Bergman were still with us, what roles do you think she would've had since 1999?

If Mary Kay Bergman were still with us, what roles do you think she would've had since 1999?

Posted on Aug 11th

For anyone who doesn't know, Mary Kay Bergman was a prolific voice actress who was most famous for voicing every female character in South Park, Daphne Blake in the first three Scooby-Doo movies, and Disney's Snow White from 1989 to 1999. She was even the mentor to voice acting legends Tara Strong and Grey DeLisle. Sadly, Mary Kay suffered from severe mental illness, and it led to her committing suicide in 1999. But what if that never happened? What if she managed to get professional help and continued to do voice acting to this day? Who do you think she would've voiced since then?

Victory moment/good directing moment I wanted to share

Victory moment/good directing moment I wanted to share

Posted on Aug 11th

I haven't taken an acting class in five years and I've been really missing it while doing show after show. I'm opening a show in two days (oh my!) and I've been REALLY struggling with a character whose tendencies are way outside of my range and experience. The director pulled me aside to talk about it and, to my surprise, he did more than just tell me to be better. He offered some strategies, we talked about the character and the scene, and once again to my surprise he *listened to how I work and met me where I'm at*. He seriously listened when I said "Well, to me this character is smoke stains but his situation is velvet" and then incorporated my method into his vision and got me where I needed to be. Received last night's notes: Praise for improvement and encouragement to keep working. I was reminded that great directors work with actors and not just characters. I know that being treated with respect and dignity in a learning environment isn't (or shouldn't be) groundbreaking, but after a while of high pressure low support directing relationships I feel really secure.

What makes actors great

What makes actors great

Posted on Aug 11th

I saw “All of us are dead” on netflix, I really enjoyed it. Along with other movies and shows, what do you think makes an actor great. Can you tell when an actor is relaxed?

As a male actor, can I have piercings?

As a male actor, can I have piercings?

Posted on Aug 10th

Hello everyone! Hope you are all well! Saw that there are “no stupid questions” so I figured why not ask: I am going to UBC in Vancouver to study a BFA in Theater & Acting, so happy and excited to go to a new country as well (never seen snow before so that’ll be a first!) For a while I’ve wanted to get my ears pierced, however I fear that this may hinder and or limit the amount of roles I could get. BTW, I already have 2 tattoos lol, however with some makeup those can be hidden.

Why is "street casting" still a thing?

Why is "street casting" still a thing?

Posted on Aug 10th

I just read the variety (?) article about the actress who was going to play Rue in Euphoria before Zendaya was scouted by the casting agent, which is how they cast Angus Cloud. Do they literally just go up to a random person and say "Hi, you look like you could be an actor! Come audition."? And how is that still a thing these days when social media can be used to conduct open calls?

Experience using Talent Link?

Experience using Talent Link?

Posted on Aug 10th

Anybody here have a positive experience using Talent Link through Actors Access/Breakdown Services? Or any negative experiences? I’m wondering if it’s worth coughing up the fee or not — thanks!

How to land representation in other states?

How to land representation in other states?

Posted on Aug 10th

I am a Northwest actor with a lot of experience in the business. I have pretty decent materials, and quite a few (regional) credits. I am trying to figure out if it is at all realistic to think that I can find representation in other markets where I don’t live. The local-hire question is a big one, and the research I have done seems to indicate that in many places I would have to prove residency to be considered a local-hire. If anyone has any tips about the “How do I land reps in LA when I don’t live there,” I’m all ears.

Great actors = Enormous baggage?

Great actors = Enormous baggage?

Posted on Aug 10th

A lot of the greatest actors to have ever lived (and lots of other great working actors as well) have and have had a lot of serious personal struggles and problems. Struggles/problems like family and relationship issues, drug/sex/porn addictions, mental illnesses, etc. I’m not insulting or trying to hate on them, or stating that this is fact. I’m also not saying that being a tortured soul is the only way to be a terrific actor. But why does it seem that the most brilliant and talented/skilled artists tend to be the most tortured by their demons?

Got into the best acting school of the Netherlands (Film actors academy Amsterdam)

Got into the best acting school of the Netherlands (Film actors academy Amsterdam)

Posted on Aug 10th

I really don’t know if anyone cares, but I’m gonna say it anyway. After auditioning and auditioning I got in my dream school. I’m so happy, I know I’ve worked hard for it.

Personal Advise on if I should go to LA or NYC for training?

Personal Advise on if I should go to LA or NYC for training?

Posted on Aug 10th

So I know there are a lot of posts about LA vs NYC, but I wanted to see if I could get some advise about my specific situation and which would end up being the better option for me. I’m really looking to move out to one of these cities to get training. That’s what I really want to focus on right now, and I’m really interested in doing a 2 year Meisner program. During Covid I did a meisner summer intensive and a 1st year Meisner program all online with a teacher in LA, and I really loved it, and want to do a full 2 year program in person. What I’m having trouble with is deciding if I should do the 2 year Meisner program with that teacher I really loved in LA, or to do it with one of the studios in NYC like Esper studio or Terry Knickerbocker studios. I really loved the teacher I had who’s in LA, and think he’s fantastic, but I’d only really be going out there for his class, as I like NYC as a city much more than LA. I like how close everything is too each other and how I don’t need a car, and how there’s lots of theater and film out there. I also have a lot more actor friends and mentors out there in LA. The thing I’m nervous about with NYC is if I don’t end up loving the teacher I get out there. So I guess to sum it up, would be better to go to a city that I don’t love as much as NYC, but I’m with a teacher who I love and trust, or do I go to NYC which has more of what I want in a city and the people I know, but go there not knowing if I enjoy the teacher I’m getting? Thank you!!!

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