Expert: Michelle Renee Krehl - 4/20/2009

Question
Being an actress was my dream job. I really enjoy it and want to take this up as a career. I started with acting classes when i was about 6 till about 13 when i migrated. My old acting classes would sometimes be visited by agencies such as the Disney channel, and audition us to be in shows.

I need help in finding acting classes in Sydney, Australia, that does that or an agency that would give me an opportunity to auditions and get me roles in children shows like Hannah Montana, or movies even.

All i want is a chance to prove myself, and I'd like to know the best way possible.

Thank you very much for your time.

Answer
I will be very honest here. As much as there are occasions when children are scouted out of the country for roles in American movies and productions, it is rare. There are many issues that come along with working in another country and many production companies would rather not deal with them. Talent searches are the least likely places to find new talent.

You are going to be more on the right track with taking acting classes and finding an agent. Unfortunately I am not that familiar with the Austrailian acting market, as my specialty is more in the area of modeling. What I would recommend it to take some cold reading classes, and to ask the instructors (who are often actors/directors/agents who they recommend as far as talent agencies. Getting represented is really the best way to get submitted for auditions or for roles.

But there is also the theater route, which often is attended by casting people as well. If there are any types of community theater productions, I would recommend you check these out. They are great for getting hands on experience, and also for getting the chance to be seen.

I do not know how old you are now, but if you are still in school getting involved in drama productions can be very helpful as well.

Good Luck!

~Michelle