Backstage Experts

5 Things To Know Before Heading to Hollywood

If you’re dead set on moving to Hollywood, make sure you know the five things Casting Director Lana Veenker says actors MUST have before declaring California or Bust.

9 Ways To Be an Acting Warrior

When anyone urges you to give up your dream – even if they have all the good intentions in the world – recognize it for what it is: an attempt to manipulate, intimidate, and frighten you out of your goals. That is the kiss of death. You have to follow your dream ...

5 Excuses You're Making Not To Go to EPAs (Stop Making Them!)

I recently worked with four Tony-nominated actors and an up-and-coming director at a great regional theater, and I was one of only three actors not pre-cast. I got this job from an EPA (Equity Principal Audition).

Stop Waiting and Live Your Life Now

Stop waiting for things to get better or easier or less busy. Stop saying that you need to wait to be better prepared or more secure or more certain of yourself.

5 Places To Find a Great Monologue

Last week I shared with you how to improve your child’s chances of making a great impression when choosing a monologue. Are you curious where to find some good material for that next big audition?

8 Ways To Survive the Dreaded Waiting Room

Here are a few things you need to do to protect yourself from the elements and stay in your creative zone in order to do your best work.

How To Get an Agent To Respond To You

To get an agent to respond to your marketing materials or to build your network of casting directors here are some tips.

Why Your 'Type' Is Irrelevant

Most serious actors I know would love to play as wide a range of parts as is humanly possible, and do not want to be limited by "type." If anything, you should hope we’re willing to cast AGAINST type!

Introduction to Meditation for Actors (Part 3)

In order for meditation to be beneficial, you have to do it, and do it with some degree of consistency. It's also important that your practice doesn’t feel like a chore but instead feels relaxing, nurturing, and energizing.

10 Ways To Market Yourself to Industry Professionals

Many actors don’t even know the concept of a marketing campaign or that they should be creating one. What is it? What do you do exactly?