It’s something you hear a lot these days—from other actors, coaches, friends, your mother, possibly—to take some control of your career into your own hands. But is it truly worth your time and creative energy as an actor to merge into producing, as well? Per a number of industry experts, yes, it is; here’s why.
Just put pen to page.
“By writing. Get your hands on books like ‘Story’ by Robert McKee and ‘Save the Cat’ by Blake Snyder. Research how to format your screenplay, then sit down and write it.”
“Above all, keep it simple. This is the hardest part for me; my favorite genres are fantasy and sci-fi but it can be difficult to find a story that’s simple enough to produce on a limited—or no budget. But it is possible. Look at the subtle sci-fi in ‘About Time.’ ”
—Charis Joy Jackson, actor, casting director, director, producer.
“Something new has happened recently because of the Internet and social media. Actors can now establish themselves (no need to be a movie star to get a primetime series) by creating their own material (i.e. webisodes, short films, creative videos and even standup comedy) which can be posted on YouTube, Vimeo, and their websites.”
“In the old days, a triple threat was a singer/dancer/actor. Agents were thrilled to sign a performer who could work all the time in one media or another. Now they’re delighted if their clients are super proactive, creating their own products. That means really owning your career.”
“I began my career as an actor, then started writing. I wasn’t getting as much acting work as I wanted. Extra creative energy, a love of writing, and performing in a play together brought me and my writing partner together. (Pro tip: If you can find a writing partner, it can make the adventure more fun.)
“This leads me to my main advice to actors: This is your life. You cannot wait for your reps to make the moves for you. Take control. Explore all your contacts—and their contacts. Meet whomever you can, work as much as you can, and keep in contact with everyone you’ve met on the way.”
—Catherine Schreiber, actor and Tony-winning producer
#actor #filmmaker #director #writer #producer
4 people like this
Outstanding post and advice, Tammy Hunt. Everyone should read ‘Story’ by Robert McKee and ‘Save the Cat’ by Blake Snyder. And always be creating. Find your tribe. Stage 32 is a great place to do that. And put yourself out there because everything you make or are a part of leads to something else. Thank you for the share!
4 people like this
I am a big fan of creating your own content. It has never been easier or cheaper, and there are countless examples of major stars who got their break because they took their career into their own hands and made their own content.
4 people like this
Yes yes yes!! I love this, Tammy Hunt! We're also hosting an Ask Me Anything here in the Acting Lounge next Wednesday the 17th with actress and content creator Ashley Ottesen talking about this very thing!
4 people like this
I think it's all about balance. You can easily get stretched thing campaigning on so many different fronts. Acting/Writing/Directing/Editing/Your Day Job/Fitness. The key for me is setting achievable goals each year. Try to write 1 exciting new short. Try to make 1 new short. Try to edit 1 new short. I like to keep it simple in hopes of making the most of my creative efforts. Of course with all the social media/skits going on these days, it's tough to see people with seemingly endless time, energy, and resources able to create so much, but it's also important not to try to keep up with the joneses and make your creative time really count. One great short or sketch can do way more for you than 20 alright ones.
3 people like this
Thank you, Pat, that is a vey good point you're making