Expert: Phil Nemy - 8/14/2006

Question
Well, ever since I saw a TV I wanted to be on the other side of the screen acting (if that makes any sense). Now I am 14 years and my dream hasn't changed one bit. I want to become an actress for film. So how do I go about doing it? My parents know that I want to act in movies, but they don't think that I am really that serious about it. I am fairly experienced. I've been in every school production, town production, and I've been to a few camps specializing in theater. I live about an hour away from Philadelphia so its not like I am completely isolated, but my parents aren't willing to drive me out there all the time. So what do I do? Any help from you would be much appreciated. I know that you are probably going to say 'Wait until you are a little bit older' but is there anything that I can do now that will prepare me for the future? Thanks so much!

Answer
Kyra,

Thanks for writing. In order to "prepare for the future" as you wrote, the best thing you can do is begin with enrolling in acting classes. Try calling the Philadelphia Film Commission and speak to Sharon Pinkenson who is the film commissioner. She may know of some top-quality acting teachers in the Philly area in whose classes you may be able to enroll. Developing your acting skills is truly important and will better prepare you for an acting career.

Other than this, since you are only 14 and cannot move to Los Angeles on your own, you'll have to settle with auditioning for projects that occur in Philly.

Hope this helps. Good luck!

Phil