Expert: Phil Nemy - 6/9/2008

Question
QUESTION: I am a high school student in Riverside, California and I was curious what are some good colleges For Film Acting around me? Would USC be any good? and What would a good side job that will be flexible enough so that I can go in for auditions and so on. Also during college what should I be doing, should I then still try to get into auditions and stuff.

ANSWER: Ryan,

Thanks for writing. Yes, USC is a good school to study acting. So is UCLA. But I would stay away from film acting programs and study in a theater program. The best actor's training is for the stage. Once you've developed your skills and talent, you can adapt it to film and TV.

The most flexible job an actor can have is temp work through a Temp Agency. Essentially you "fill in" for assistants who are out of the office that day. It's basic office support work, computers, handling telephones, etc.

During college, if you enroll in an actor's training program, your school will NOT want you to audition but focus on your training.

Hope this helps. Good luck!

Phil

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

QUESTION: so what should I do to get myself ready for the transition to film acting will the theater program in college be enough to get me ready?

Thank You.

Answer
Ryan,

The answer is yes. The foundation for ALL acting is the acting for the stage. The theater existed for thousands of years before motion pictures was even invented! Training as an actor for the stage will equip you with all the many techniques in acting, voice, and movement that you must master in order to be a working actor. Remember, although you may DESIRE an acting career in motion pictures, chances are you'll probably find more work in theater, commercials, radio, etc. than you EVER will in motion pictures. Most actors, even talented ones, NEVER make a living solely from acting. They usually supplement their living through other income sources and other professions.

Hope this helps. Good luck!

Phil