Why is he/she working and I am not? Why haven’t I had an audition? I was right for that role! Why didn’t I get a chance?
There is a reason the saying 90 percent business and 10 percent show has been in Hollywood since the beginning. And I mean the beginning.
Ninety percent business means planting seeds: networking, sending postcards, taking classes, going to auditions, attending showcases, studying your craft, etc.
Ten percent is the actual show, i.e. the audition or execution of the client’s concept.
Keep in mind, there are two types of people in this industry: Those that say they do! And those that actually, DO!
So what’s your goal? Getting known – not famous, but known for actually doing.
Known for being a great actor – an actor who not only delivers on concept, but who delivers on it in a creative way.
Often you hear, he’s a great actor, but wow why is he/she so bitter? They must be having a bad day. You never want anyone to say that to about you!
You always want to be on mark. You are a pro! You should be in control as an actor no matter what is thrown your way.
Here are some very specific ways an actor can be proactive rather than bitter!
1. Enroll in a dance class
2. Shoot a project: web series, film, short film, commercial, anything.
3. Take a writing or directing class
4. Go to or start an improv class!
5. Start a blog.
6. Create a YouTube Channel.
7. Perform a one woman/man show.
8. Volunteer at a local charity
9. Intern in a casting office
10. Attend an art or drawing class
11. Go on a museum tour
12. Visit an elderly facility
Always try and broaden your career as an actor. Concentrate on the positive aspects of your career, not others.
The more you add to the texture of your life, the better and the more appealing you become to the advertiser.
Remember acting is always a reflection of life. It’s how you re-create it that defines and separates you from everybody else. Break a leg!
Robert Jr began his career casting feature films primarily for Oliver Stone, Steven Spielberg, and Ron Howard, but after crossing paths with Steve Jobs,Robert Jr began extensively casting Apple’s high profile World Wide product launches including the first iMac, iBook, Power Mac G4, Mac OS X, and iPod campaigns and has gone on to cast 1000’s of commercials, film, and TV projects. His casting company Digital Dogs Casting is best known for their unique, award-winning campaigns and a flair for blending improv and witty dialogue with performance-driven spots.
Robert Jr recently released, “The Concept of Acting” an audiobook that delves into the complexities of performing for Film, TV, and commericals and is based on his award winning acting theory, TheConceptOfActing.com.
By Robert B. Martin, Jr. | Posted March 7, 2013, 2:43 p.m. Backstage.com