Ready to get to work on those New Year’s Resolutions? Now that the fun and games of the holidays are finally winding down, we’ve pulled together a couple of practical opportunities to get your career in ship-shape for 2019, including starting your taxes and polishing up your résumé. But don’t worry! We’ve rounded up a few fun and inspiring events, too. After all, balance is everything.
Revamp your résumé.
As in many professions, your résumé as an actor creates the ever-valuable first impression, so make sure it shows off not only your credits and experience but also your personality and brand. Find out how to spruce up your personal résumé at SAG Foundation’s small group workshop on Jan. 30. They’ll help you take your résumé to the next level and show you how to turn it into a valuable marketing tool. (Free for union members)
READ: What Belongs on an Actor’s Résumé?
Celebrate 40 years of “Alien.”
One of the most enduring movie franchises of all time, “Alien,” has been enthralling moviegoers for four decades. Celebrate this milestone anniversary with U.S.C.’s new exhibition honoring the (mostly) Ridley Scott–helmed series starting Jan. 25. On display are storyboards, production design blueprints, international poster art, models, costumes, props, ephemera, merchandise, and fan art. Also, keep an ear to the ground for special screenings that are sure to pop up during the exhibition’s run, happening through May 12. (Free)
Start your taxes early this year.
If you’re like a lot of people, you look to get a head start on your taxes every year. As an actor, however, you know that the process of preparing and filing is, well, a bit more complicated—especially with the new tax laws. Get the low down on deductions, record keeping, and even budgeting on Jan. 26 as Theatre West hosts certified tax preparer Andy Griggs, who’s tailored the evening of tax talk for an audience of actors. Hopefully, you’ll walk away feeling like this year really is the one without a filing extension. (Free for Theatre West members; General public: $21.72)
READ: The Actor’s Guide to Filing Taxes
See a wide variety of works during L.A. CineFest.
Looking to attend events and premieres for award-winning works? L.A.’s CineFest honors films and filmmakers creating everything from animated shorts to music videos—and even clips shot entirely by drone. This year’s festival on Jan. 26 also features a heap of Q&As in addition to its screenings (of course) and an awards ceremony of its own. Don’t miss this chance to see what’s new and happening in a variety of genres. And for a price that’s lower than many other L.A. film fests. ($15)
Catch a silent movie starring a legendary animal actor.
Hollywood’s silent-film era is the subject of continuing fascination and study in today’s entertainment industry. One venue that’s really made an effort recently to embrace and thoughtfully present those films is the Autry Museum in Griffith Park. (Pro Tip: The Autry is really worth a visit for its collection of cowboy movie and TV show ephemera alone!) See the classic “Clash of the Wolves” on Jan. 26 accompanied by live music—the way silent films were meant to be seen. A bonus? The film stars the iconic Rin Tin Tin, perhaps the most famous animal actor of all time. (Free for members; $10–14 for the general public)
Looking to get cast? Apply to casting calls on Backstage.