Expert: Laura Interval - 1/30/2009

Question
Hey!

I am currently a university student studying in the UK to get a BA in Theatre. I am now in my second year and the course is three years long in total. I have recently got a student membership with Equity and reserved a professional name and I am very serious about the career I would like to go in to.

I have always been very keen on acting and have been praised highly for my skills in the art, but the question I want to ask is where to go after I finish university and in the build up to my graduation.

I feel an agent would probably be a good move but I wanted to undertake further training after this. Would this be a good direction to move in, and could you give me any advise to do with this matter?!

Thanks in advance,
Steven

Answer
Hi Steven
I am probably not the best to answer this question... as I didn't enter my acting career out of a University ... but, I'll tell you what my experience has been from being a working actor for the past 17 years.  You can not thrive in an acting career without an agent.  You will be in a great position to secure one upon graduation... as I know they all scout heavily from the university programs.  In my opinion, you should never stop training... never stop learning... never stop challenging yourself to improve your craft.  Get an agent... and continue training in classes that are attended by professional actors.  You need to get out there and audition (if you feel you are ready)... and begin to familiarize yourself with the realities of the business of acting.  There are fantastic classes outside of the University system where you will learn from the other working actors and be able to gain momentum from networking. Agents aren't easily signed these days... if you're in a good position to sign with one now or in the near future... I wouldn't pass it up.
I wish you all the best in your pursuit!
Sincerely
Laura Interval