Expert: Phil Nemy - 10/30/2008

Question
Hi Phil, I am only 13 years old and I live in Toronto Canada. I really want to be an actress since i was 11 and I don't know what to do first. I researched a lot about the industry. Should I get interviews with agents first or should I go to acting schools or classes? My mom signed me up twice for drama classes at my school but they got cancelled because I was the only one that enrolled and all the money is losing, i don't know if i should try again in another area. I really have a great acting and singing talent and I just want to get in atleast 1 commercial this year. I want to be in television show like comedies, i wanted to be in the laugh productions. Plus my mom isn't really sure sometimes she wants me to be an actress but it is my biggest dream and i want it to come true! Phil can you help me take the first step into becoming an actress?

Answer
Benita,

Thanks for writing. If you want to be an actress but have no training, then you should first enroll in acting classes in Toronto. If you don't know of any good acting classes in your area, try contacting the Toronto Film Commission or the Ontario Media Development Corporation (OMDC) and see if either organization can provide you with a list of reputable acting teachers in your area.

The Toronto Film Office number is 416-338-FILM (3456). Rhonda Silverstone runs the office and she's a colleague. Tell her I referred you there and see if she can be of some help.

The OMDC number is 416-314-6858. Donna Zuchlinski runs the office and she's a colleague as well. Tell her that I referred you there and see if she can be of some help.

Good luck!

Phil