What's the fastest path to become a working actor?

Here's a hint...the shortcut is a trick. The truth is that the long way IS the short way. When you look for a shortcut, it makes you vulnerable to scams and con artists. The only way to become a working actor is to develop your skill in acting.

There's a lot of actors who want it.

Instead of focusing on booking roles and getting on TV, focus on becoming a good actor. The core of all successful actors is that they've developed their talent. Until you've honed your own craft, you'll be missing the essential tools to succeed in the film and television industry.  

You've got to train harder, be more persistent and have patience. If you can sustain working on your craft for the long haul, you'll already be more successful than most.

Actors tend to be impatient and give up on their dreams. While you're waiting to be discovered, you might as well work on the craft of acting. Get into a great acting class!

Acting class is forever!

If you want to be a working actor, you'd better love the acting! That means you should love acting class. But understand, that acting takes work. Even when you've been an actor for years, you should be in acting class.

The competition is fierce. Actor are hungry to work and there's a lot of us! You need to compete. 

We all know that Olympians train hard. They trained hard to get into the Olympics, and they continue to train even harder, once they've made the team. That's us!!

Here's why acting class is the fastest path:

 #1 You get to be around other actors.

• This is your community of actors within the industry.
• You'll be inspired to keep acting and go further.
• Expand your comfort zone.
• Learn through observation
• Stay motivated!
• Either love it or hate it!

#2 Learn the craft of acting.

• Get rid of bad habits.
• Mountain top highs when you do great
• Work with a scene partner.
• Find acting classes just above your level.

#3 Best networking event!

• Meet lots of people in the industry
• Get to know filmmakers
• Get around the casting process

#4 Build relationships with future producers.

• Bond with other acting students.
• Stop chasing industry people.
• Multitask learning and networking

#5 Make friends who become referrals

• Get referred to their agents
• Some agencies need a referral
• Know people before you ask for a favor

Build skill, then worry about climbing the ladder.

Through acting class, you'll begin to understand the craft and the commitment it takes to become a working actor. Until then, keep working on your skill and grabbing roles along the way.

Once you're feeling good about your skills and confident, then it's time to jump into the working industry.

THE BUSINESS OF ACTING

Without the having the skill of acting, knowing the business won't help. But when you're ready, and you'll know when...learn the business of acting!

The only way to get "discovered" is to understand the business. This means understanding how to market yourself and the materials required by the industry.

Learn what you need before you start looking for an agent or manager. What do they require? What are the commitments? Do I have the right qualifications?

Your marketing package is KEY!

You need a competitive marketing package. Your marketing package is made up of:

• Headshots
• Resume
• Reel & Clips

Can an agent or manager take your existing marketing package and present it to a casting director with a bow? Does it demonstrate who you are as an actor? This is what sells you to casting directors and talent agents.

Enjoy the journey.

Don't be in such a hurry to "make it." You are in the right place, right now. Everything you do from here will determine your path. Respect and appreciate everyone you meet. They have a hand in what kind of actor and career you'll have. 

Love acting class. Love the process of learning. Making mistakes and sucking in class is part of the learning process. Remember that this is fun and a privilege.

This is the fastest path to become a working actor!

Break a leg,

Nancy