Expert: Laura Interval - 1/12/2010

Question
Hello, My 13 year old daughter has dreamed of becoming an actress ever since she was 4 years old. She and some of her friends has put on little plays for her family when she was younger. Every site we go on to search for auditions, they are either scams or they are asking to pay with a credit card, and I don't have a credit card. I want her to be able to follow her dreams. What is your advice?

Answer
Hi Tina
I wouldn't bother with any of those sites that charge for auditions right now.  Most of them are scams... and if you're in a large city that has a real acting community... you should be able to find auditions free of charge.  (for example:  on Craigs List, Backstage, or your local entertainment paper).  Is there a way to get your daughter involved in a drama club... acting classes... community theater?  That's great that she loves to put on plays with her friends... but, she needs to begin to get real performance experience (in front of an audience).  Acting is hard work ... and often I find when people begin to actually do it, they don't love it as much as they thought they would.  Does her school offer a program?  If not, dancing and singing are also great to begin now... as they are assets to any performer.  Another option may be a summer camp program?  She's still so young.  She has a while before she needs to decide if she wants to pursue acting as a career path.  For now, keep focused on education ... and keep an eye open for any performing opportunities.  Even school plays will give her valuable experience.  Remember, you shouldn't have to pay a lot at this point for her pursuit.
I wish you all the best,
Please don't hesitate to ask me more specific questions if you have them.
Laura