Expert: Peter Messaline - 1/13/2009

Question
Hello, I have been trying to get into the acting biz for years. I currently am with an angency, but I have yet to do anything. This is all I want to do. I just need to know where to go from here. I have applied for little parts in independent films, but I need to move on. How do I do that? please help me

Answer
You don't give me much to work on, but I can suggest some things that may help.

At your place in your career, it's unlike that an agency will be able to help you. You will need to push at independent film and small theatre for yourself. When you get film casting, move heaven and earth to get tape of your work.

Do your research -- find out who may be able to hire you locally (the person, not just the title), find out what they've done, or what they're planning, and write to them about that, and about yourself.

Keep on writing, keep a note of what you said and any response, make a conversation out of it, not just a series of begging letters.  

Put yourself where your engagers would be. Join a film association, get in touch with the local film school, go on Internet discussion groups, talk to theatre Fringe organisers.
Concentrate on getting known as an intelligent enthusiast -- don't ask for work but be ready to take any job to get your face known. Casting is always a nervy thing and people would always prefer to use someone they already know and trust.

Keep on keeping on.