You already know Backstage is the go-to for any and all information pertaining to your craft. But now, you have the chance to get in on the action with the Backstage Community Forum. Here, you can engage with others in your industry, as well as teachers, experts, and, yep, even agents and casting directors. Below are some of this week’s most interesting new topics; drop a reply or post a new thread. Either way, fire up that keyboard and get involved right here!
Becoming a company as an actor for tax benefits?
“Hi there! My girlfriend is about to earn $60–80k this year through commercials, and she is also buying a new car. I drive her around to all work stuff, and we basically don’t use the car except for work. Work miles make up about 95% of all miles we drive. We also have a room dedicated to just acting stuff (a home studio). Would it be better to register her as a business instead of a self-employed individual? Do we need different insurance if the business owns the car? Is that more expensive?
“If so, how would we go about it? How complicated is it? I used to do her taxes every year for her on TurboTax, but if she becomes a business, I’m sure that’ll get more complicated and end up costing more. Do businesses have to submit taxes 4 times a year (quarterly)?
“I know when I used to work in ridesharing, I wrote off my car as being used for rideshare each year. Could she do that for the new car? We’re also registering it as a couple, so under both of our names.” —azucker
Making extra income?
“What do you guys do to support yourselves while auditioning and all that?” —Blahgirl
Concert work in NYC?
“Hi everyone! I was wondering if the community might be able to help. I am looking to get more professional cabaret/concert experience for footage and exposure.
“What are some places I can look at that accept submissions, etc? Also, how can I get cast in a 54 Below concert? If anyone has experience, I would greatly appreciate it. What are they looking for that I’m maybe not doing? How do you stand out for this venue and its casting practices when submitting to auditions posted?
“Also, would love to hear about other professional concert venues/spots for NMT happening in NYC; maybe even for Black musical theater artists, too! Thanks!” —Blahgirl
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