AboutKenneth D. Plonkey Expertise Questions about acting and directing. Questions about getting started in a careeer. Questions about training and schooling for actors.
Experience I am a retired film actor. I am a retired university theatre program director and professor. I am the author of "The Tao of Acting, Mentoring for the Aspiring Actor" to be published this summer.
Organizations SAG
Education/Credentials BA, MA, PhD in Theatre
Post graduate study with certificate in Media Acting
Awards and Honors John Golden Traveling Fellowship
Question Hi, im a south african girl who is currently studying graphic design... My mom wouldnt alow me 2 go into acting, coz she thaught it would be a waste since the industry of acting is so busy... Wel im here asking how to get started? My pappa lives in america, so i am planing on moving there soon. Im a very artistic person who ranks at the top of my class in colege. But i feel like stil becoming an actres, and i need some guidens, eventhough i know a few people that can help me in the doorway 2 acting, i stil wana know what i can do? Im a determined person, everyone always tels me 2 go into acting since they think i'd be good at it? I wana know, what must i do 2 get in the acting business? Who must i know? What must i do in terms of research? What do they expect out of a person? What is the procedure 4 a foreigner, where must i go? Who must i talk to? And what must i prepare for? Please tell me anything i need, since i might not have all the correct questions, where do i start? I would love to be part of a series or so... Nadia
Answer Dear Nadia, The industry of acting is nearly impossible to make a living in. The way one gets started is by being in school plays, or if you are out of high school, community theatre plays. By doing this you can tell if you have a talent for it. It is my understanding that an alien cannot work in the professional acting Industry in the USA. But that may be moot depending on whether you are any good at it. To get started you don't need to know anyone special, there is some reading you ought to do if you find you are good at it, The industry expects the most able, most dedicated, most professional people to work with. The necessary qualities I cover in my book, The Tao of Acting, which is free for the shipping and handling. When you get to the USA, you should order a copy. It takes years of preparation, getting eperience and training in acting classes to even get an audition for a job. I think thst about covers your questions. One other thing you need to do to be an actor in the US would be to improve your English. You may consider me your contact regarding becoming an actor. Write me when you come to America. Best wishes, Doc My address is kencosp@aol.com
