Expert: Michelle Renee Krehl - 1/30/2009

Question
i dont have an acting resume right now bu i am really trying to get into the buisness..... I went to one acting class and I won a pageant in 8th grade... will i get any acting jobss to help start my career... btw im 16 years old

Answer
Nee'sa,

Getting started in an acting career takes lots of dedication and hard work. I do not know your location, so it is hard to refer you to anything specific. Of course if you are in Los Angeles or New York, you would be closer to the industry's hot spots.

The best thing to do no matter where you are located is to improve your skills and taking acting classes is a great way to do this. (You said you already went to an acting class, so this is a step in the right direction.) Community Colleges often have acting classes that are very economical.

Something else that you could do to gain experience is to join a local theater company. This is a great way to get experience, especially while you are still in school.

If you wish to begin a career in acting while you are still a minor, your parents will need to be supportive. If you were to get an agent, or need to go to auditions, you would need them, as at 16 you are still a minor. There are often listings for auditions online, but you must exercise caution if submitting, and always have your parents with you. I have booked commercials and TV work from castings I found online, but beware, there are lots of scam artists out there.

Do your research. Are there any schools for the performing arts in your area?? After school acting programs at an area YMCA or Boys and Girls Club??

Best of luck to you in all you choose to pursue!

All the best,

Michelle