Expert: Kitty Kavey - 7/18/2008

Question
i am staying in baroda,(guj) where sagar film city is present so i want to be an actor so can you help me and tell me the procedure to get into it and work with sagar arts.

Answer
The process may be somewhat different than the US - so you'll need to contact a working actor there to find out what the differences are between US actors, and Indian actors.

My expertise is for the US.  There one would have an actor's headshot taken and write an actor's resume.  Once represented by an agent, the agent submit's the actor's information for work opportunities.  The actor would need to be prepared to audition for roles, usually done with a casting director, director, producer, or another representative of the client.

There are unions and state/local laws and regulations/rules that apply to some of the work performed by non-professional and professional actors in the US - depending on what part of the country one is in.  There may also be a similar system set up over in your location to regulate the industry there.

It has been suggested before that it can be a good idea to learn the workings of the way a film is made by starting out as an extra/background artist.  It can be quite educational to spend a little time on various sets with time to chat with others and observe what's going on, as well as possibly make connections to move on from there.

There are agents who represent actors there, and it may be wise to seek representation from a reputable agency.  If you get the chance to audition for them or meet with them, you can express what your goals are as an actor, and they may be able to suggest the proper course of action for that area.

It is part of your agent's job to advise you in how you might best market and prepare/develop yourself as an actor, and your agent will also be most knowlegable about the local industry.

Good luck to you,
~Kitty