New York City–based actor Benjamin Daniel Culpepper proudly shares that every acting gig he has ever booked has been through Backstage, including his next thrilling gig: the Off-Broadway musical “Queen Esther.”
Above all, he values connection to the material.
“Whether it’s a play, music video, or Off-Broadway musical, the medium doesn’t matter. What I look for most is a character that I can connect with.”
Backstage is more than just casting notices.
“The fact of the matter is that Backstage is the best place to find acting jobs when you are starting your career. I also read the articles, which are filled with great advice. I even found my phenomenal headshot photographer through Backstage. It has so many great resources for actors.”
An actor’s community is pivotal for growth.
“Every project that I have done has been through Backstage. In each project, I have been lucky enough to build a community of artists who inspire me [and] offer me advice, with whom I can grow creatively. This is the most important aspect of the Backstage experience.”
Doing ‘Queen Esther’ was never up for debate.
“When I saw the venue, the story, and the director, I knew that I wanted to be a part of this project. Here we are in one of the prettiest theaters in the city, helping share a unique story with a wider audience. That is the dream.”
His advice to fellow actors: Carry on.
“Persevere, scour Backstage for jobs, and keep yourself busy. Make your own work if you have to. Don’t forget why you are doing what you’re doing. Don’t get bogged down in that survival job. You are an artist, so never stop creating!”
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