Congratulations! You’ve lived an awesome life, raised your kids, started a business, moved abroad, and now you’re finally ready to continue chasing your dream of being an actor. You’re not alone in this quest and it should not be taken lightly that you’re venturing back into the industry that you once chose to walk away from for whatever reason.
Honestly, the reason doesn’t matter. What matters now is that you’re ready to jump back in. So, here are five things to know that will help make your re-entry a little easier.
1. You’re in a very powerful position.
I know that you might feel like you’re starting over completely. But, the truth is, you now have a huge scope of experience from your past theatrical days and the great life you’ve lived. Experiencing the human condition can only make you a better actor, so use all of your years as a “civilian” to help fuel your ability to bring a character to life with authenticity. Step into your power at this wonderful time and don’t be afraid to tell people you’re back!
2. The industry needs people of all ages including yours.
It might feel like the entire industry is skewed toward younger people and let’s be honest, that’s true to an extent. However, there are still always roles available for more mature people. Don’t let the naysayers tell you there is no work for people your age. There is. You just have to look for it. The industry will always need actors of all ages, all the time. You just have to know your age category. That doesn’t mean the age you actually are, but rather, the age that you play.
READ: How to Become an Actor Later in Life
3. Nothing has really changed.
Here’s the truth. Nothing about the actual craft of acting and auditioning has changed. Good acting is still good acting. You still have to be prepared, pick great material, take great classes, show up, and be your best at an audition. Don’t get worried that your acting technique is wrong, but absolutely do get back into class so you can work out those rusty pipes.
4. Everything has changed.
Okay, so the “nothing has changed” part wasn’t entirely true when it comes to process and access but this is good news! Everything you didn’t have access to the first time around, you now do. Almost every bit of information you could possibly want to know about the process of auditioning, who the big players are and how to get in the room are all at your fingertips on the internet. Remember the days you had to go and actually pick up the sides for your audition? Not anymore! Now they’re sent to you via email by your agent or a casting director. Even Actors’ Equity Association sign-ups can be handled online now and you can check their website for the latest news.
If computer skills are not your strength, I suggest taking a class so you have some knowledge of how to read emails, attach PDFs, and print any scripts that might be sent to you. And yes, you should get that video camera ready right away too because self-submitting is your friend, especially for TV and film auditions.
5. Research current shows and roles.
Bottom line is, in order to be in the business again you have to KNOW the business you’re in now. Commit to learning the new plays and musicals that are being produced on Broadway and beyond. Watch the latest TV shows and films that are streaming on Netflix, Amazon and more. If you’re in NYC, visit the Performing Arts Library to watch recorded Broadway shows and check out cast albums, plays and any other research material that will help you feel immersed in the scene once again. You might even find that you like it better now that you are no longer competing with those uber-talented 20-somethings.
Own your age and your experience, and welcome back!
Ready to get back out there? Apply to casting calls on Backstage!
The views expressed in this article are solely that of the individual(s) providing them,
and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Backstage or its staff.
