The Working Actor

How Child Actors Can Find Agents

Working Actor Michael Kostroff advises child actors to focus on their craft and avoid managers who ask for payment up-front.

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.

Join a Union or Stock Up on Credits

Michael Kostroff examines the tricky question of whether actors starting out should immediately work toward joining a union or bulk up their résumé with nonunion jobs.

How to Find a Good Acting Teacher

Michael Kostroff advises shopping around for acting teachers until you find one you feel comfortable with and from whom you can learn.

The Contract Specifics of Guest-Starring Roles

Working Actor Michael Kostroff explains how guest-starring roles on TV shows are contracted and how TV work could affect being cast in serious films.

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.

Stop Auditioning and Start Acting!

If actors would just stop trying to crack the code of the auditioning process and focus on sharing their talent, auditions would be a lot better.

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.

How to Brand Yourself When You’re a Multi-Hyphenate

Knowing your type and marketing yourself well will come in handy with your career.

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.