Expert: Taylor Sheppard - 7/29/2009

Question
I am very determined to get into acting and taking acting classes. But i have no idea how to even go about starting it. im 16 and i dont want to start when im to old. It has always been my dream to act just to be doing what i love. Its not for the money or fame or anything i just want to make my dream come true. I look up things and try so hard to get into it but alot of websites ask for money and sometimes i dont know if thats what i should do because i heard they just want people for their money. I really really want to make my dream a reality. can you help me and kind of give me a head start?

Answer
Hi Jameecka,

I'm glad to hear that your heart is in the right place! I get so very tired of kids who want to be on Disney because they want to be famous and show off or be on "Cribs".

Someone asked me once if I am successful. I said: "How do you mean?" and they were puzzled. I said: "Do you mean: 'Do I make lots of money acting? Do I have an Emmy or an Oscar or a SAG award or a Tony? Do I date the latest "it" actress? Do I vacation or work in exotic places?'
To all of these, I replied: "No." But I HAVE been on TV and in movies at the theater, I have acted on stage to large audiences, I have been in commercials and had nice conversations/flirted with A and B list stars. I have talked to legends and big time directors. I have stood in for an Oscar-winning star. But most importantly, I HAVE GOTTEN TO BE AN ACTOR! That makes me successful. Many will never get to do any of those things. Many were better actors than me. I was lucky, but I was also putting myself out there, sticking to it, picking myself back up after disappointments and never giving up! The more involved you are, the more opportunities and connections you make and rewarding long-term friendships you make.

You do not want to look on the Internet for acting classes unless you are searching the online yellow pages. Better option: look in your local phone books "Yellow Pages" under "acting schools". Another option would be to check with local live theaters -community theaters- in your area. Many actors teach on the side. High School drama clubs can also be an option, but I recommend private schooling over public for this. If there aren't any teachers in your area, you may have to find a way to travel to the nearest larger city who does. Classes aren't free, but they are usually worth the expense.

My other advice is to read every book you can get your hands on for acting. There are lots of different approaches to it. I am a fan of Meisner and most teachers will have you read Stanislovsky. There are also books on learning how to improv (improvisation) and character analysis and of course, acting for the camera. I also read screenplays and watch live theater as well as rent movies to watch the actors I admire over and over. One of the better video rentals I found was Michael Caine on acting. While I wish it was more extensive, I learned quite a few tips on the craft.

Best to you, young actor!

Taylor