Expert: Taylor Sheppard - 5/13/2011

Question
QUESTION: I'm an 18 year old male with little acting experience but I've decided it's what I want to do. I did some modeling here and there during high school, a few trade for print and some paid but mostly just to build a portfolio. I'm thinking about working along with going to a local community college (I live in the midwest right now) and studying theatre/acting for 2 years along with getting my generals done and saving a lot of cash probably around 2,000 a month for 24 months.

From there I'm thinking after getting some experience and necessary training I'd transfer somewhere around the LA area like UCSB or UCLA that way I can be where I'm supposed to be to pursue this, while trying to gain experince, exposure and better training along with meeting people that could help me out. All the auditions are out there and it just seems like the overall best option. I've also been thinking about NYU or somewhere in that area since I could possibly get a few modeling jobs. Another idea I had was maybe just sticking it out around here, the place I know till I actually graduate, maybe Iowa U or something since it's in state and still, from what I hear, a pretty decent program.

I've put a lot of thought into this, and I just think it's a clearly a better and more realistic option then moving out there with nothing and not attending any school at 18 years old and expecting people to drop everything to represent you.. it's definitely not that easy and I think that's what people don't realize.. either way, I'd appreciate your take on my plan and any advice you have.

It just seems really hard to actually start out in the industry because so many people are trying to do the same thing you are. I've always tried to look up my favorite actors and see how they got their start and it just seems to be a small bit of luck for the majority of them, along with knowing one or two people out there. I'm also semi worried that if I go to school and get my BFA for acting/theatre that it could just go to waste, but I am planning on having a backup plan and taking classes for something that is in high demand, just so I'm not screwed if acting doesn't work out. Thanks for helping out ahead of time. Don't want to sound like a douche at all, but at my most recent modeling shoot the makeup lady described me as an Ian Somerhalder/Taylor Lautner combo, which I took as a compliment although I didn't know who Somerhalder was at the time.. figured I'd throw that out there so you kind of have an idea of my background. I feel like I could definitely do well in this industry, BUT I don't like to take risks with no plan, so I'm trying to check and re check everything.. starting out sucks.

ANSWER: Hi Liam,

You sound to be a very mature, thoughtful and balanced young man.
So many times I read questions from people who "Just wanna" with no real plan, or ANY kind of plan!

While there are risks in most everything, planning and realistic expectations help to manage that risk. Having a backup plan? Best idea. While you prepare for that you will have to be able to put your heart and soul into your dream. No easy, but if you don't go hard, you end up going home.

I will tell you these truths:

Acting is a very up and down deal. You have to always budget, and due to the nature of the field, life is never certain. When you get a break and do well, you should concern yourself with investing the cash for the rainy days which WILL come. Tell you a story: a guy in my agency is the voice of the Oscars. (Does the voice-over announcing). He said that he had lots of breaks during the show, in which he would sometimes step outside to sneak a smoke. Well, a certain female actor/singer showed up with a multi-suv entourage and the valets went wild running up to fuss over the star and "her people". A moment later, a guy pulls up in a nice Toyota Camry. Nothing fancy. He gets out, and several minutes go by as he patiently waits for someone to get his car. Finally, a valet pulls his head out, and realizes that Tom Hanks has been standing there, quietly, not making a fuss! While Hanks shouldn't have to ever worry about money, he is sensible and down to earth. THAT is a very desired trait with people in the biz who HATE prima donnas, like the female actor, who may very well not even be yesterday's news in a short time.

Very few actors in the biz actually make serious bank. Less than 10%.

Fame doesn't solve loneliness or personal issues. It generally makes it worse.


I think your general plans is sound. You gotta decide on LA or NY. You will need classes to perfect your skills, make contacts and get known. The more involved in anything around the biz, the more chance of meeting the right people you have. Also, casting likes to see training credits. They REALLY want to read recent credits on your resume. "Oh you took a class with so and so? OH!.... 4 years ago!" FAIL!

Be patient, do NOT give up, no matter what, and let the hard times make you stronger in your resolve to succeed! It may take years to get there.

Best, Taylor


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I try to balanced, I just don't want to be another statistic/failed actor, ha. I've had some conversations with Jerry Ferrara which was cool.. but I don't have any real connections yet, and I know that's a huge deal. After and during school I will obviously be wanting to audition and make contacts which is why I think LA is a better choice, or somewhere in that area.

Also I am more so interested in television and film as opposed to broadway/theatre. Which would you recommend when it comes to NYU or UCLA or any other school in California? Also, I've been writing a screenplay for a year and a half now.. do you think trying to pitch a screenplay attached to it is a good way to catch a break?

thanks.

Answer
Hi Liam,

Pitching a screenplay is a whole other challenge!

If I could start over and go anywhere as a young man, my choice would be USC film school.

I would learn EVERY part of the business. I can't imagine a better place o learn and make connections.

Best to you,

Taylor