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Careers: Acting, Performing, Directing/becoming an actress and possibly a model
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Question
Hi, im 15 and i want to reach my dreams of becoming an actress and possibly a model. I almost did proscout until i found out it was a huge scam. And im wondering if you could give me a list of legit agencys of southern indiana. And if the Talent and Crew Netork located in evansville indiana is a scam or not. Also any advice on preparing and becoming an actress is appreciated. Even tips for interviews and monologues. Thanks!!
Hi Malana,
Good thing you identified them as a scam, there are many out there!
Easy way to tell? IF THEY ASK FOR MONEY! A real agent will only get their cut of your money AFTER you have auditioned, won the part or job, and have done the work. Never, NEVER upfront.
I can't give you any names in the area, but if you check the phone book and internet, you should be able to find them under "talent agencies". But first, I would get into acting/modeling classes so you are prepared and can look knowledgeable and professional when you do get interest from one or more agents. Be prepared to have some rejections when you mail them your headshot and resume of training and work, if you have done anything.
Best,
aylor
Answers by Expert:
Taylor Sheppard
Expertise
I can answer questions: on starting a career in acting, mistakes in acting, etiquette when dealing with industry contacts, finer points on how to act, and things to avoid in the field.
Experience
I have been a professional actor 21 years, with appearances in TV, Film and commercials. I have made good decisions and potentially damaging mistakes. I believe anyone who has a dream deserves to explore it, and I take their aspirations seriously. That being said, I do not pull punches. I try to be tactful, but I will not lie to someone, honesty is more effective. My last film role was in "Teeth" which was picked for Sundance in January 2007. It was sold to Lionsgate and Weinstein Co. for somewhere over 2.5 million. The role was "Mr. Griffith", a sex-ed teacher.
Organizations
Ciao Agency-Austin/Georgetown, Texas. (Formerly known as Donna Adams Agency. Matthew McConaughey was a good friend and fellow member. I also have belonged to agencies in three other Texas cities, but they have since closed.) TXMPA -Texas Motion Picture Alliance. Various other internet networking web rings as well as Actors Access. I was instrumental in advising actress Krista Allen on getting her career in acting started in Austin,Texas (we worked at the same Health Club in the early '90's).
Publications
Previously wrote on a now defunct website such as this one. I enjoyed helping new actors.
Education/Credentials
I have acted for 21 years. I studied under James Nelson Harrell as well as other talented actors at Southwest Texas State University. After college, I have taken classes with Julliard graduate Mona Lee, Bill Johnson, Van Brookes, Marco Perella and others in Austin Texas. I am constantly attending classes to maintain my edge and explore new directions. In addition to attending strictly acting classes, I have also taken business workshops with respected casting directors, such as Shari Rhodes ("Jaws","Close Encounters", "Raggedy Man".) Barbara Brinkley, Jo Edna Bolden and Donise Hardy, (Castingworks LA).
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