Expert: Laura Interval - 5/30/2008

Question
QUESTION: I love acting and I have natural talent - but I don't know how to start in a career. I'd love to do television, such as shows, maybe movies. I've been looking around on a few sites to try and find one that will allow me to enter for auditions for free, but I can't find one. Do you know of any? Or is there a better way to start acting? Also, I'm 14. I know that age has a lot of effect on acting...

ANSWER: Hi Joanne
It's great you have such a passion for acting so young!  In order to better answer your question, I have a few questions for you.  Are you in or near a big city?  Are you in classes or involved in your local theater?
Unfortunately, there really aren't many legitimate casting services online.  Backstage.com is a good resource if you are around NY or LA.  Craig's List can be good for local work or your local art paper (such as Creative Loafing or Village Voice)  The other casting websites just don't have enough quality opportunities that would be worth your time or money.  There are a lot of things you could do to educate yourself and get prepared though!
If you want to talk further, I can better help you if I know more about where you are.  I have spent the last 20 years working as a professional actress in TV and movies and know the markets in LA and NY well.
All the best,
Laura
ps... take a look at my actor's section on my website

www.creative-personal-development.com/express-yourself.html
I also offer free online coaching.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: The closest large city (Detroit) is about 50 miles away. I have been involved in my community theater, but main roles are hard to get with my young age. I'll definately have a look at that online-coaching!

Answer
Hey
ok... well, atleast you could get to Detroit if you had to, right?  Have you looked at the Craig's List for Detroit?  I know there may not be great roles available to you right now because of your age, but don't get discouraged!  Just keep studying... keep developing your skills.  There's no hurry for you.  Your goal now is to become a big fish in a small pond first.  Then, you can think about the bigger cities!  I like to think of it as starting on a go-cart..  You know NASCAR racers master go carts before they move up in the ranks.  
I would be glad to coach you and help you to get ready for TV.  On camera acting is a lot different than theater.  Do you have a monologue prepared?
If you do, upload it to my email on my website... we'll go from there.
All the best,
Laura