Expert: Taylor Sheppard - 1/16/2009

Question
Hi! My name is Jenna I'm 19 and I hail from Georgia. I have basically planned out my pathway to becoming who I want to become, by planning my major from college, where to live after  college, and what to do then. However, all things mentioned, have something to do with acting, or being around a camera or a stage. The plan includes me moving to LA, probably with a few friends, and starting a career there, after getting training here in GA, so that I can have a better chance of being successful out there. Well, my questions are these:
1. Where is a trusted site I can go to, to find auditions and casting calls in GA? ( Including extras and SAG works?)
2. What is a good college in the southeast US that has great  theater and/or film programs?
3. What are some good talent agencies in GA?
4. What is a good city to be located in?
5. And any Advice or information you have would help! I really want to pursue an acting career, and I want as much information that can help me now, and help me succeed in the future!

Answer
Hi Jenna,

Other than checking your state's film commission web site, (http://www.georgia.org/EntertainmentIndustry/AboutTheIndustry/Help+Wanted+Online...)... finding auditions would be hard if not impossible.
That is because casting directors deal with represented talent, not walk-ins. That way, they know they are dealing with talent that are good enough to get an agent. You have to understand that film and tv is entertaining, but a business. If there was no money, films would never be made. As they do make money, it costs money to make a film to make money. It costs a LOT of money. The recent hit "Slumlord Millionaire" was a cheapie -only 15 million to make. So, with every minute of film costing thousands of dollars to produce, it is a very serious business. The directors often spend 5 years or more preparing and working to get a film in production. That being said, if you were a director with your "baby" -would you want to have the best, most competent people, or a beginner with little experience or training that will slow things down because they aren't trained?

Start with the classes and when you have some under your belt, start looking for an agent. Atlanta seems to have a fair number listed with the state. That would likely be your best location to live/get started in the state. I amreally not knowledgeable as to which colleges are the best in the SE. I'm sure that what programs there are would be fine as long as you are a good student. I would also look into private teachers. You can locate them through theaters in the cities. Just call!

Best to you!

Taylor