So you have some training and a few credits under your belt, when do you know it is time to move? That is up to you, and you alone. Some people are satisfied with what their regional market has to offer, but if you aren’t, then it may be time to start thinking about moving. You may be tempted to just pick up sticks and go, but there is an immense amount of prep work you need to do first.
First and foremost: SAVE MONEY. You are looking at $800+ a month on rent. And that is at the very low end of the spectrum. LA and NYC are EXPENSIVE, so give yourself some cash to get started. First and last month’s rent, security deposit, renting a uhaul, it all adds up- and that is just to move! You are most likely going to need a survival job to start (or for 5-10 years...), so prepare your pocket book as much as you can. What’s the point of being in a major market if you can’t afford classes or gas money?
Get your marketing materials in order. Here is where it can be very helpful (and recommended) to work with a coach. I have worked with Dallas Travers, Bonnie Gillespie, and Claire Winters, all of whom can help you get your materials and mindset in the right place BEFORE you move. You should also plan a “reconnaissance” trip, as I call them, to check out the city and to gather information. I recommend getting your headshots in the city where you are moving. That way you aren’t behind with non-industry standard shots. Schedule your session during your recon trip. Also, audit some classes while you are there. See what is for you and what isn’t. Get a feel for the neighborhoods, and think about where you would want to live. The more prep you do before you go, the better!
I feel like I am spewing a lot of information that may be making your eyes glaze over.... so, let’s stop... Take a breath... The truth is, there is so much you can do for your career. It isn’t when you are just on set, or on stage. It is every day of your life. Because that’s what being an actor means. You are living and breathing it every day for the rest of your life. If you can’t commit to that, stop reading and do something else. If that sounds like something you are ready for, let’s continue:
To continue with this train of thought: start meditating, or finding some sort of activity that grounds you. You will be facing a lot of rejection and uncertainty as you pursue a career in the entertainment industry, so have something you can return to that will level your head. Maybe it’s yoga, gardening, painting collectible figurines, reading mystery novels, walking in nature. Make a list of things that make you happy and keep it handy. That way you can go to it right away when you are feeling down or unbalanced.
Another thing that you can be doing at any time, in any place, is connecting on social media. Twitter is a powerful tool to stay on top of industry happenings, and to connect with other actors, and even some casting directors. Start expanding your network and connecting with people, because you never know how that contact can lead to something in the future.
You must also have a website. This is so important! If a director wants to learn more about you, they should be able to do a quick google and find your website with your resume, head shots, contact info, and other info about you. You can use Wordpress, Tumblr, or Aboutme, to make a free and easy site.
After you are moved in to your new city, be a tourist. See the sites. Fall in love with your new home. Also, check out the union offices. If you aren’t a member yet, they can inform you with all the facts and give you tips to get your card. If you are a member, they will have wonderful resources. Actors Equity just opened a new audition center in NYC, and the SAG-AFTRA Foundation Center in LA (and I’m sure NYC) is chock full of resources and free events. Take advantage of all of this! Remember, it’s FREE for members!
NOTE TO YOUNG ACTORS: Please do yourself the biggest favor and stay in school! Get a college degree. Not only will it help you get other jobs (and higher paying survival jobs), a college education will help you be a more well-rounded person. This above all is the type of person and artist you should strive to be as there are not enough of them! I know it feels like you are missing out, but get your education and follow the advice above, then you will be in a great place when you finally get to LA or NYC!
I am in the midst of this market transition myself, so I know how challenging it can be! The bottom line is to take advantage of all the opportunities around you before you go to LA or New York. Yes, I know you want to go where the action is (especially if you’re a young person!), but don’t rush things. Make sure you are ready in all areas of your life before you make the big move. And remember: this isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon. If you are planning on being an actor your whole life, you have plenty of time!
BIOJessica Martin is an actor and producer primarily located in Seattle, but easing her way to LA. She has worked regularly in regional theaters across the country including the Seattle Rep, San Jose Rep, Indiana Rep, Arizona Theatre Company, Book-It Rep, and ACT Theatre. She has also appeared in local and national commercials, voiced radio spots, and most famously provided the voice for Samus Aran in Nintendo’s Metroid: Other M. In addition to appearing in short films and web series, Jessica wrote and directed her critically acclaimed short, For Patrick. You can find out more about Jessica and read more insightful blog posts at www.jessicaerinmartin.com
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