Expert: Kenneth D. Plonkey - 1/8/2010

Question
Hello! I am a 21 year old college student who was born in and has grown up in a very small community without the opportunity to build up experience in the acting field. The most experience I've had was making videos with friends as children and my high school's senior play. I have always had a great interest in films and all the behind the scenes aspects of them. I can't watch a movie without dissecting it and wondering what's going on off camera. :)  But when I try to tell my friends or family that I want to be a part of that, they laugh at me or tell me "You're too old now." "Yea right...good luck with that." "Why don't you be something more realistic like a nurse or something?" So as of right now, I'm going to school for nursing, but I can feel that it's not my passion and that I'm not meant to be one. I want to get out there and gain experience in acting and prove everyone wrong (God knows I have the heart) but I don't know where or how to start in such a small town area. How do I even begin to build up a career in acting with no experience? And can I make something of myself or is it all about "knowing people"? Thanks so much!!

Answer
Hi  Melissa, Well first of all there is no such thing as being too old to start working on becoming an actor. If there is some short course to becoming certified as a nurse or nurses aid, do that and when you are qualified for employment, move to a large city known for film and theatre work, such as Atlanta, Dallas, San Diego for example.  It takes considerable financial investment to become an actor.  The main thing you have to do is to develop a resume that is evidence that you are an outstanding actor.  You do this by being in community theatre plays and independent films. You take carefully selected classes and you get known as an actress in the 'acting community' of the city.  When you have a solid resume, you seek representation by an agent.  In the meanwhile, read all the plays you can get your hands on.  IT will come in handy later on.  So that's how to start.  You will later learn how to become known. Also read all of the entries back to last August at my blog at http://theatredoconacting.blogspot.com  God bless, Doc