Nicholas M. Goroff's Lounge Discussions

Ross is right. also have realistic goals as it is a tough journey with many fallouts. x

Classes can be invaluable too. Not just to learn the craft (which IMO, one should ALWAYS be trying to do more of,) but to network as well. You'll meet other aspiring actors, be introduced possibly to showcases where you can meet with agents and of course, remember that if you take ten actors, odds are at least two of them will be aspiring film makers as well, which can work out really well as you can easily find yourself working with people you grow to know, on projects you want to see happen. The getting paid part comes later, or may never come at all. It might fall out of the sky and drop into your lap, but, at the outset at least, don't let that be a priority. Go for student films, indie productions, do some background on a studio production if you get a chance. Its all good experience and helps you build your reel and your understanding of what its like on set. Craigslist can be a resource, though if its anything like Boston's CL, it'll be a lot of porn, prostitution solicitation and otherwise bunk nonsense. However student and indie flicks go up a lot. Actors Access and this site as well are good resources and I've noticed that unlike the former, this place doesn't seem to want to charge you for submissions. Checking out Facebook groups for film maker and actor networks in your area can be helpful and also, try just dropping into the art or film department of nearby schools to see what's going on. Now, with classes, do be careful. There are a lot of con jobs out there who are just looking to make money. They'll recite standard passages from actors resources books and sometimes will try to pass themselves off as gurus. This isn't super common, but it does happen. However even there, provided you're not being taken to the cleaners, the ability to network with other creative folks and performers can still be a brilliant experience. Hope that helps.

Thanks everyone! This is a lot of great information!

Rafa, that's a brilliant practice!

www.vimeo.com/picknroll