Expert: Phil Nemy - 5/16/2004

Question
I am an aspiring actress who lives in Raleigh, NC. I have been acting on stage for about 5 years now but I really want to get into film/television. I have done one short film so far and loved it. I really want to do commericals and get some auditions down in Wilmington,where ONe Tree Hill is filmed, etc. The problem is, I cant really get an agent b/c I work from 8-6pm Mon-Thurs. Agents want you to be able to go to an audition at any time, but I have to make money! How should I find auditions, and casting directors on my own? Thanks!

Lauren Pearce
http://dream2bastr04.tripod.com/lauren/index.html

Answer
Lauren,

Thanks for writing. I'm from Raleigh as well. Small world.

I hate to say it, but if you really want to pursue a career as an actor, AND you want to stay in NC, specifically Raleigh, you're going to have a very difficult time of it. Most actors who have made the decision to pursue acting end up moving to New York or LA and really go after it.

You cannot pursue an acting career and be available for auditions that you're agents set up for you if you are not available during the day to go on an audition. Maybe you should find another job that allows you more flexibility but that will also pay you similar income.

That's the only way you're going to seriously pursue your career. Hope this helps.

Good luck!

Phil