Expert: Taylor Sheppard - 1/24/2008

Question
Hello, my name is Billie, i just moved from Las Vegas to Portland. I am a single mother with kids and really really have this big dream of acting. When I was younger, in school I was in a few plays and really enjoyed them. Now at 28 years old, I really want to do something i know i would enjoy and that is performing either in plays or on tv.

Can you please point me in the right direction of where i need to go and who i need to talk to to start up my career.?

Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to answer my question.

Billie.
Portland Or.

Answer
Hi Billie,

You're welcome!

Sorry for the delay in answering! I have been getting little sleep here since "Teeth" (the last movie I worked in) was released. Seems like success breeds opportunities...hence, auditions are coming at me faster right now!

It sounds like you've got a lot to juggle being a single mom, it's not easy, so I applaud you.

I would suggest you see about classes that meet 1-2 times a week to get started. That way, you can do the training needed and have time to do what you must at home. a couple hours twice a week should be doable. I don't know how old your kids are, but hopefully, you have a support system that would allow the time away.

Acting classes provide knowledge, confidence and connections so you can network and find out about opportunities from the other aspiring thespians and your teachers. Once you have taken the various classes: beginning acting, intermediate, improv, cold reading, auditioning, workshops, you can put together a resume that is heavy on training which is important when you aren't a teen or child. Unfortunately, they give more slack to kids without experience as opposed to adults trying to get agents and jobs through casting directors. When you have the resume together (see examples on the net) you can get headshots from a real headshot photog in the industry -pay the money, it will save you time, grief and money in the long run! A friend with a camera won't do it. Trust me! A pro knows what the industry wants in a good headshot. He or she won't retouch it too much like someone else might do. Casting/agents don't like to see people who don't look like their "idealized" photo. Look like you!

Best of luck on your journey!

Taylor