Making Your Play/Film
Many actors feel motivated to forge their own entertainment careers on stage or screen. It puts you in control of your creative output while offering a chance to show off your strengths as a performer.
Whether you're in New York, Los Angeles, or a small town in Iowa, there are dozens of ways to make your own film or theatre production. Digital video is a booming phenomenon that has considerably reduced the cost of making a film. It's actually feasible to make a professional-looking product for less than a few thousand dollars, including the price of a DV camera, lights and video-editing software on your computer.
Theatre costs haven't gone down the way film has, but there are also ways to work inexpensively. You don't need a huge stage and banks of lights to create a satisfying production. Use the lack of money to force yourself to be as creative as possible with the resources you have. And take advantage of software that helps with everything from scheduling rehearsals to running lights off a laptop.
Learn from others wherever possible. Attend theatre festivals to meet people skilled craftspeople, find out about the best local publicists, and seek out advice on funding opportunities, legal and insurance issues, and methods for licensing rights to plays. Also check out support groups. Many can be found on the Internet.
Creating independent films can require considerable homework. Consider taking classes on getting financing, setting a budget, renting or buying the right equipment, and casting the roles. The Internet is a great resource for searching for needed services and equipment, and for finding people who will work with you. Chat lines and email lists can provide a wealth of tips from friendly online acquaintances.
If you don't want to do everything on your own, seek out local theatre or film companies. Many are hungry for good original scripts, and will give you a foot in the door. Check out the Dramatists Guild and the Writers Guilds of America, as well as organizations such as Film Independent in L.A. and the Independent Film Project in New York. They can offer access to helpful information and resources to boost entertainment careers.
LINKS
Going Nonlinear
Ben Rock provides a detailed description of the wealth of choices available in platforms, systems, and programs for assembling films.
Buying into Digital
Ben Rock's advice on the benefits of digital filmmaking.
Possibilities for Playwrights: Resource Guide
Organizations and resources helpful to playwrights.
Join the Club
First-hand experiences from membership company managers on the procedures and benefits of membership companies.
Rights Make Delights
Tips on securing the licensing rights to plays
The Proof's in the Printing
Putting your best foot forward in pitching reviews and features for your plays
L.A. Film Schools and Classes
A listing of classes in the Los Angeles area.
NYC Film Schools and Classes
A listing of classes in the New York area.
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