Advice to a struggling young actress
“Listen. I think you are Incredible and extremely driven. You are fired up about acting and getting great feedback on your skill growth. You love the process & just want more of it. I totally get that. And I promise you will be a working actor if you hold tight to those passionate feelings. But there are realities at play that are mostly always going to be out of your control.
The world has shifted and we are in an uncertain time. Measuring or comparing anything from before is impossible right now. Its unprecedented- its happening- nobody has answers or can see past today. It sucks but be patient.
Your geographic location is simply not bursting with production opportunities. And it likely will never compare to the opportunities that exist in LA. That is out of your hands until you are an adult with a healthy support plan to make a move.
You are in a “slow” zone. Not dead but not great. Being legal 18 helps. But its slower for auditions at this age.
You are a specific type - and in my experience that is such a major PLUS. Because when roles come along that you fit very well There is less competition and you are gaining skills by the day. But there are going to be times with less auditions. Never compare your journey to another Actor’s fyi
Also.. when we desperately want something its harder to get it. I swear to you - once you settle in to confidence and relaxation and have other things in your life that excite you and occupy space in your mind- THE DOORS WILL OPEN!
It takes a long long time for Casting Directors to get to know you and start to champion you. Do your best networking stay creatively busy But know that there is an investment in time - years of time- before things start to take off.
Create! Create! Create!
Train Daily!
You have a wonderful opportunity to make art. Act everyday. Write and perform. Challenge yourself.
Think outside the box.
Make a voice over reel.
Make clips in every genre you can think of.
Read for other actors.
Find scene study groups.
Volunteer - ask for more scholarships.
Find Demo production companies and volunteer to act in scenes for their clients.
Read scripts. Read plays. Watch the classics. Study the Masters.
That in itself is a huge time investment.
Keep your materials updated and sharp and bountiful.
And be ready - really ready for when those awesome auditions come your way.
I have no doubts in your inevitable success. Keep a good healthy happy mental headspace. Enjoy the ride. And be constantly pro-active on your training and materials. Innovative and Bold- is a quicker way to success. ♥️♥️♥️ -Corey Ralston, Talent Manager, Bohemia Group
