Expert: Laura Interval - 7/23/2008

Question
Hello My Name is Elizabeth and I am 14 years old. I have a few quick questions for you on Training and schooling for a want to be proformer.I have a little Background in Acting mostly small plays and a few Commuity Theater Players and lots & lots of Years in dance. Lots and lots of People tell me I am a wonderful proformer and that I should go pro. But I really don't know the next steps. I am Homeschooled so I can not take part in school plays ,and I live in a place not really known for Proforming Arts. My Future Goals are to go from acting in theater to T.V.  like most people and I am Willing to give my all and more for what I love. Can You please Tell me what Training and schooling that I need to get and Tips for getting my big break.
Thank you so much for your Time.

Signed,
Elizabeth

Answer
Hi Elizabeth
Glad you came here to ask!  Sounds like you are on a great track.  It's exciting to me when someone at your age already has experience and knows what they want!  
First of all, don't get in a hurry!  Just make sure you continue to get out there and perform.  Continue to do shows at your local theater, continue to dance, continue to train to be a performer.  Then, when you are finished with your 12th grade level, you'll be ready to go into bigger markets.
You don't necessarily need to go to a performing arts university.  It isn't a prerequisite for breaking into film/television by any means.  However, it can be great training if you haven't had formal acting technique training yet.  However, a lot of drama departments won't allow you to work professionally while you are still in school, so you'll have to decide what you need most.
I think it's a really good idea to continue your education, while staying active with acting.  Either outside of your school work, or as a second major for example.  I have a lot of friends who shot commercials and TV while they finished their college degrees.  So, perhaps you'll want to head to a college in a more performance oriented town (like Los Angeles, Chicago or NY) and do both.  You could pursue a degree in something else (like literature or psychology) while auditioning when you have some free time.  
That's a long answer to your question... but, I really feel a well rounded education is important and will add to your value as an artist.
Just keep performing when you can!  There is no substitute for experience... and you'll stand out when you do finally get to the big auditions.  Preparation is so important.
Hope this helps!
All the best,
Laura Interval

ps... I have a free on line coaching service on my website right now:
www.creative-personal-development.com/express-yourself.html

If you want to upload a monologue to me... or any of your work, I will be glad to work with you!