The Working Actor

Stage Door Solicitation, Workshop Confirmation

Is standing outside a stage door to meet someone and promote yourself shady and/or pushy? I feel this is not a good career move, but the photographer feels differently.

Profile Purpose, Feedback Foul

I cast extras and principals with Extra Talent Agency, and I have to disagree with a statement in your recent column "Rotten Request, Dumping a CD" (June 18–24).

Location Management

"I'm a recent college graduate planning to move to New York to pursue my acting career. I've visited a few times, but I can't figure out how to find an apartment. Should I just move to New Jersey and commute?"

Stuck in Rep, Pay to Play

"It was with a mix of relief and sadness that I recognized the agent in question in your recent column ["Arrivederci A******," Oct. 29, 2009]. Because, unfortunately, I'm signed with him."

It's Indie Mail, Commission Impossible

"Does it make sense to send my material to a director's agent or representative if I cannot find his or her company's address?"

Friends With Career Benefits

What avenues are there to pursue to ease your way into having a connection without appearing to be an overly ambitious opportunist?

Dues Discussion

"I have a difficult time understanding how the unions are protecting the "working actor," and I am hoping you can help to clear something up for me."

O, Canada!, Manager Matchmaker

My question is: How do I balance auditioning, preparing for auditions, and working enough to make a living?

No Class, Parental Partners

I'm 12 years old and just starting out. I don't think I should submit myself to any agents, because I need more experience. But again, I can't find any casting calls to gain experience. How do I break out of this annoying cycle?

Visitation Rights, Streaking Craze

Last year I got Abrams to be my agent. I've booked with them, but over the last five months I've had no calls. I am frustrated but don't want to burn a bridge, and she has not told me to get another agent.