Expert: Kenneth D. Plonkey - 12/19/2010

Question
Hello, my name is Carolyn and I am currently a sophomore in high school. I would like to start off by talking about my career conflict. I have always wanted to become a professional actor. There is something about being onstage and conveying emotions through the perspective of a character that gives me a joyful and somewhat adventurous feeling. In school, I always volunteer to read aloud or present a project. However, my parents want me to become someone in the medical field. I'm sure every parent does and I'm sure that there are kids out there that have the same kind of problem as me. That expectation and the economy right now discourages me on achieving my dream. Due to the situation that I am currently in, I cannot attend acting classes that or schools that require many fees because of the cost and distance. Also, one of my teachers said, "Actors and actresses nowadays are never successful. They will end up on the streets. The only way to get successful is if you look like a gorgeous model." That really hit me. Hard. It discouraged me greatly and after thinking about it, actors that I have seen have all been gifted with phenomenal beauty. I still do skits though, but I worry if that's really the case when I graduate and go into the real world. What is your opinion on this?
Also, I am in the drama club at my school and when we have auditions, the judges are very biased towards their friends and they believe that they are the best. I thought that auditions were supposed to be non-biased and just plain fair. Will it also be like this if I auditioned for larger productions? I honestly cannot describe my love for acting in theatre. I feel that I am special and belong to a significant group when I'm in a play. I also love the audience's reactions and acknowledgments as well. The limitations that I have mentioned just kill me. I hope you can understand what I'm saying. I apologize if I rambled a bit. I really would like your opinions and suggestions on this. Thank you.

Answer
Hello Carolyn, Your situation is the same as most young girls wanting to become actresses.  But  you have a great opportunity, if you are qualified for it. All beginning actresses have to have a job to support themselves while trying to break in.  I would recommend becoming a Physician's Assistant. It only takes a couple of years of study, offers easy employment and good pay. Then you can start working toward being an actress when you can support yourself. Your teacher's opinion about actors is old fashioned and based on a prejudice against actors. There is not need to look like a gorgeous model either. Doesn't this teacher watch TV? Many actors are less attractive physically than are gorgeous models. What you do have to be gifted with is extraordinary talent and charm. Finally, no, auditions are not meant to be any more fair than life is meant to be fair. The directors are going to go with the people they know and trust. The beginner has to work her way into that group. I want you to read my blog, all of it back over a year or more to the beginning. It is at http://www.theatredoconacting.blogspot.com Then I want you to write to me at kencosp@aol.com and request my free ebook on becoming an actor. God bless, Doc