Casting Director Renee Godbout reminds you that starting small can lead to big breaks

Not all of the actors reading this come from entertainment capitols like Los Angeles or New York City. But that doesn’t mean you can’t pursue your craft and build up a resume before taking a big plunge into those markets. There are several ways to pursue your dreams in your own hometown. You'll get a taste of the industry, decide if it’s something you still really want, and have enough experience under your belt to break into the big leagues!

1. Community theater. There are local theaters everywhere and they put on a variety of different productions. Auditions are usually open to the public with a performance schedule that lasts a few weeks. It’s perfect for short-term commitments. You learn a lot from your peers and what’s it’s like to perform in front of an audience. It’s also a great opportunity to try drama, comedy, and every other genre imaginable. They’re good credits for resumes, and good reviews translate to wonderful footnotes.

2. Films in your area. With new tax incentives all over the country, films are being done everywhere. There’s no reason anymore to stay in LA when you can get authentic scenery somewhere else for the same amount of money or even less. This past spring, 8 films shot in Boston, 6 in Connecticut, 3 in North Carolina, 1 in South Carolina, several in Louisiana and New Mexico, etc. There was even a film this past year that shot in Iowa. You might get a few days of extra work or even an audition for small speaking parts, depending on how big the film is. Any experience is good so take advantage of both big budget and independent films. Now that films are being made everywhere, keep your eye on your local newspaper, online listing, and word of mouth. InstantCast is constantly expanding their casting calls in locations aside from New York and LA, so don’t forget to search for new parts in your area regularly.

3. Student films. There are college and universities all over the country that have TV/film majors. I was once one myself! As part of their curriculum, they have to usually write and direct several films. Larger schools like NYU even have an entire college devoted to studying theater, film, and television, which means making student films is a constant process. Look out for postings online for students in need of actors for their films. It’s a chance to get experience acting on camera and footage that can later be used in your reel. You always want to be able to show your range, so your reel should have a variety of different characters. And best of all, student films are a great way to land a starring role on camera!

4. Family entertainment. Don’t cross off theme parks, cruise lines, children’s theater, dinner theater, and more. In each medium, you are becoming someone else and performing for an audience. It’s all about creating memorable characters.

5. Hosting. Hosting is another form of acting. It’s more in the reality genre of entertainment but it’s also a good exercise in speaking in front of an audience. Audition to host a local pageant or a public access TV show, or even a local talent show. You might decide that’s the type of work you want to get into.

Just remember to always think outside the box and never be afraid to try something new. You can learn important tools from every experience! The more you put yourself out there, the more likely you are to reach your dreams of stardom.

Renee Godbout - Freelance Casting Director. Renee Godbout recently worked on the first season of The CW's popular teen show Gossip Girl at Grant Wilfey Casting. Some past projects include 2 seasons of Law & Order: Criminal Intent, the pilot for Dirty Sexy Money, and the upcoming Jonathan Demme-directed Dancing with Shiva.

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