Expert: Kitty Kavey - 1/14/2007

Question
Hi,
I am 27 years old, and am now just deciding that acting is what I would like to pursue.  I have limited experience, from highschool, and am not sure where to start out at.  I am a little older in starting out, but would appreciate some advice.  Thank you

Answer
There are no age requirements for acting, so you can start out whenever you like.  You are not hired by your age, but partly because of your apparent age - so if you look like a high school student, you'd be sent out on castings that specified that.  If you look like a soccer mom, you'd be sent out on roles that fit a "young mother" age.  
You will need a professional headshot and actor's resume.  You can put your high school experience on it, if you have nothing else, and begin working on acting training, which is also included on your resume.  You can also get work on your own, particularly in independent films and student films, which is a nice way to gain experience as well as have something to fill out your resume.
Some churches and community theaters also have acting opportunities for novices.  
I would start with training in the specific type of acting you're interested in, get your headshot/resume done and start working while you look for an agent.  When you're ready for agency representation, use the Screen Actors Guild list of franchised agents (www.SAG.org, under Resources, Agent Information).  The list is searchable by location in the US, although you will still need to check with the individual agencies to confirm if they represent the type(s) of acting you want to do, and if they are currently looking for new talent.
Good luck to you,
~Kitty