Expert: Rusty Meyers - 1/3/2008

Question
QUESTION: I had planned to call her sometime this week. I would have done it sooner, but I was having some problems. I read alot on Acting. I've read articles, books, other people's experiences, and I know ALL about scams and rip-offs. For some reason, I'm really confident that she can help me.

ANSWER: It's good that you read things, that certainly can help.

But eventually it's putting it in action.

Like I said just make sure that she is recommended by others.

Agents should have a few coaches that they have used, or can refer you to.

So contact a few SAG (Screen Actors Guild) agencies and ask them some questions.

If she isn't listed on imdb.com then odds are all she has ever done is teach what she's never done herself.

Good Luck.

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

QUESTION: Okay. I just left the SAG website, and it's really confusing. I typed in Agencies and it took me to a page that wasn't found or something, and I can't make an account because I am too young.

ANSWER: Go to your local film commission hotline phone number or look them up at marylandfilm.com (I'm just guessing)otherwise call SAG (I'm sure there is a local office or at least the NY office) and just ask them to send you the SAG agency list to you, they should free of charge.

Too young, then have your mom do it for you.



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

QUESTION: Okay, thank you. I have another question. Is using a monologue from another movie okay? Because I printed a monologue and 2 different sides. Just in case.

Answer
I'm a little confused on the monolgue question.
First of all, what or who are you doing it for?
An agent or an audition?
Monolgues from movies are fine, but make sure that it isn't from something that is so identifiable by the actress that did the role.
Theatre monologues are good, but they need to be done without all of the props and costumes and should be a role that you could actually play.
Stay away from monolgues or characters with accents unless you are REALLY good with them.
Do something that is very much like you first.
One comedic and one dramatic monolgue that are under 2-3 minutes in length each is fine to begin with.
Don't just get one from a book and do it, know the whole play or movie.