Expert: Phil Nemy - 11/18/2004

Question
Hi,Phil.I have been in several commercials in Tampa,2here in Ohio and auditioned for alot more.You know how it goes.I am almost 34 and I do know this is my calling.I take acting classes in Tampa(when I am there),but,my coach only gets commercials and I really want to pursue Movies,Television.I do not have an agent nor have I ever done work to get a SAG card.I really want to know what you think would be my best options once I get back to Tampa ?I really want to try and do this seriously and if I do not succeed,so be it,but,I want to atleast say I tried.Thanks in advance.

Answer
Tony,

Thanks for writing. I hate to say it, but your best options once you get back to Tampa would be to find another career. You cannot sustain an acting career by staying in Tampa.

If you believe this is your calling, and you are prepared to spend the rest of your life struggling to make a decent living solely from acting, then you need to move to one of two places: New York or LA. New York has some film work but is the heart of theatre in the USA. LA has most of the film work and some good theatre. The bottom line is that 95% of casting for all films and television in the USA is done in LA.

You also need an agent, a good agent, AND you need to get your SAG card. Read my book, GET A REEL JOB, and it will share with you some helpful information about agents and getting your union card.

Sorry to be so blunt with you, but at 34, I don't want to suggest that the odds are in your favor. You're still younger than 40, so you have a chance at a career. Just don't waste your time sitting in Tampa.

Good Luck!

Phil