SHANI SCHERENZEL - ADVICE: ACTING
Shani Scherenzel Answers Your Acting Questions
Q. Hi. I am really interested in pursuing my acting career. I don't live in NYC or LA. Do I have to move?
You can live anywhere and do community theatre. If you just want to act and you love it, this can be very satisfying. If you are interested in a career in Television, Film or bigger theatre shows, you will need to be in a larger city that promotes this work. New York and Los Angeles are the biggest markets; there are a lot of people living there aiming for a successful career in acting and competition for work is very tough. It is hard to land work that is being cast in these cities without living there. You will need to build a relationship with casting agents and network where the work is, and NewFaces.com is the best way to do that because it gives you access to agents in teh big cities and worldwide.
Q. Hello! I am a new actor and have been doing a little non-union work. I have been invited to join the ACTRA Union. Is this worth it for me?
What counts is your resume. I would work a while getting non-union work to pad up your resume, if you can. If you live in a really small market, there may not be much union work around and you may be busier doing non-union. However, if you do live in a larger acting city, it would be advisable to join the union. There are many advantages to being in the union. First off, the caliber of work is much better, the union brings you a more professional image and being part of the union tells others that your work is up to professional standards. Union work is controlled, so you will always know how much you will get paid. The union makes sure you are being paid residually which doesn't usually happen with non-union work. As well, being in the union provides you with a large group of people that you can socialize and network with more easily. In the long run you will be able to take advantage of the RRSP holdings, health plan and other benefits that are allowed to union members.
Q. What kind of training is suitable for actors, will I be losing my natural talent by going to acting school?
A common misconception is that acting training will kill any natural inclination towards the craft. This is very far from the truth. Studying can only enhance one's knowledge of the work. Study at a university or college that has a good drama program. Many have studied privately one on one with a trainer for very good results. As an actor, one must always keep learning. You will constantly need to brush up on your skills in auditions, camera work and scene studies. Having other skills such as dance, voice, yoga and stage combat are useful and complimentary to the art of acting.
Training for becoming a good actor is varied. Many popular actors have degrees in various fields. It is important for actors to be well rounded and knowledgeable about a variety of interests. A broad liberal studies background will enhance one's appeal.
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