The Working Actor

How to Handle an Unprofessional Scene Partner During an Audition

When someone is ruining your audition be polite but firm, Michael Kostroff stresses—and ask for another partner.

Expand Your Career Options With the Actors Fund

Working Actor Michael Kostroff advises you to check out the work training available at Actors Fund, which will offer you a safety net in the future.

How Big of a Leap Should Someone Take to Pursue Acting?

If your dreams of acting are burning to be realized, Working Actor columnist Michael Kostroff advises starting slowly and aiming low.

Predictions for Your Career in 2013

Yes, the Brits will still rule U.S. airways. And yes, a vacation may interfere with accepting a job. Working Actor Michael Kostroff looks into his crystal ball and tells you what 2013 has in store.

Should Actors Ever Give Notes to Fellow Actors?

Michael Kostroff rules firmly in favor of actors keeping their mouths shut when it comes to the performances of their fellow cast members.

Understanding SAG Foundation Casting Access Project

Michael Kostroff turns to the program director for SAG-AFTRA’s CAP for a clearer picture of what the sessions are like.

When Should Actors Write Thank You Notes?

Working Actor Michael Kostroff gives advice on when actors should write thank you notes.

How To Handle Being in a Bad Show

This being Thanksgiving, it seemed appropriate to share my continued conversation with a well-meaning actor stuck in a show that promises to be a turkey. (In case you don’t know the expression, it means a flop.)

Should Actors Tolerate Un­professionalism?

When actors are surrounded by bad choices in a theater production, you can choose to treat it as a life experience.

Should You Set a Time Limit on Acting Success?

Michael Kostroff addresses the question of when to leave if your career is lacking traction.