Expert: Taylor Sheppard - 7/27/2007

Question
Hi Taylor

this is a first time thing for me. I love Writing and wish to act. But i dont know how to start off. I know you need classes and school but i cant help but ask,
I am 16 years old and going into my 11th grade year of high school next month. I was wondering is it to late to take drama classes or something of that sort and still get a scholarship to college to further myself in a acting career. I have always love acting but never knew where to start. I feel as though I am stuck at what i want to do in life. I really want act and i have a backup if that doesn't work out to good for me. I am just stuck on what I should do to start of my career off. Does it start in highschool or bigger I am confused and need guidance.
Please help me Thank you
Siobhan ^_^

Answer
Hi Siobhan,

I  really can't advise as to what scholarships are available in your area for attending an acting school after high school, but in no way is it too late to get started if you want to pursue your dream. I am glad you have a backup plan. Too many people think that they will become an actor and pay all of their bills once they get their first gig. I work a day job that I luckily, can get time off when needed to go to auditions and film, otherwise, I would not make it. I've been lucky to have had two years where all I did was act, but I was not living it up during those times.
Kevin Bacon mentioned that he got his first movie, "National Lampoon's Animal House" he was waiting tables. He said he had to ask off the night of the premier and spent his paycheck on rent and bills. He said he had to return to his job for quite a while afterward, until he could afford to just be an actor. Many actors have businesses of their own to allow them to have the flexibility to leave when they need to, because not all jobs allow for that. I know several teachers who act because they have some flexibility and summers off.

My advice: join drama, then take evening and summer classes outside of school to get started. When you have a year or so under your belt, you can start looking for an agent. It is important that you are prepared with classes or experience when you see an agent (at least a little) because they want to see you are serious and able. If they send someone who freezes up when a camera comes on, that won't do! They may have you audition to get an agent.
If you happen to get a movie in your area, see if you can go to an open extras call and get picked for the background. You can get valuable knowledge that way and paid a little and fed while doing it! (if you pay attention)

Good luck to you!

Taylor