Let It Go

After a big audition, what do you do? Do you evaluate and re-evaluate your performance, or beat yourself up over what you "could" or "should" have done better? Or do you walk away, confident that you did your best? As I grow as an actor, I find myself able to walk away from most auditions with the knowledge that I did the absolute best I could. For me, the thing that is comforting is that the experience was good, I prepared the way I needed to, and I performed what I prepared. You never know what the casting process is like on the other side and how decisions get made. It often has nothing to do with you, and more to do with the needs of the project or the budget or simply luck. Instead of agonizing, enjoy your work and it will always pay off!

The Importance of Staying Busy

Whew! I've been out of "Blog" world for a week because of the hectic schedule of The BET Awards (I was working as a writer) and a reality pilot that I wrote shooting some scenes this week. Not to mention the other dozen or so projects I'm juggling. I say this not to brag, but to stress the importance of staying busy! This last February, I stopped working at E! News as a correspondent and just wasn't sure what would be next. By March, I was off to Louisiana to work on a sketch comedy show with Mike Epps, but that month of no work was brutal. What I learned since that time is that the busier I am, the more work comes my way. This means that even when people aren't knocking on your door or calling you for auditions, you have to keep writing, calling, and networking. Create your own work: write a play, do an improv show, or simply visit theater to get inspired. Keep moving and you will attract work! Or is it all luck?

Knowing When To Say When....

If you've auditioned for a show a number of times (gone to network, tested, etc.) and they are casting again . .... do you audition again or make the producers judge you based on your past performances? I say: if you really want the show and it won't hurt you in any way to audition again, go give them your best. If you feel like they are simply jerking you around to assuage you or your manager, don't waste your time. It's a tough call for working actors who want to maintain their integrity, but we gotta work, so let's make it happen out there!

It's All About Your Agent ....Or is it?

I had lunch with a very talented actor/comedian recently. We were discussing how both of us have been without theatrical agents (for TV and Film roles) for nearly three years. Yet, despite this, we've both been working more than ever during this time. In a world where agencies are closing left and right and even the largest companies are dumping famous clients, how do middle-class actors compete? I believe the key is to try to find a reputable manager and to also forge relationships with casting directors as much as possible. When you do get a coveted audition, be sure you send a genuine and heartfelt thank you note that is short and includes your picture on a business card with your contact information. Continue to work and write. The right agent is bound to take notice.... at least by the time you book a series. :-)

Keep Moving

This morning, I'm trying to finish a treatment for a pilot. Later today, I have a business lunch about acting/comedy work and then I'll go to work at the BET Awards where I am employed as a writer. All of these efforts are fun and interesting, but am I spreading myself too thin? Some people believe that you must only focus on one area (acting, writing, producing, etc.), while others believe that you have to have a number of irons in the fire to be successful at any one. Work begets work, right? Or wrong?

Career Choices

There are always choices to make. I believe in not living with regret, because every choice that you make leads you exactly where you need to be (good or bad!). Some people, though, believe that regret leads you to make better choices the next time. Which is it?

Welcome!

As a working actress and writer, I often get asked for advice about getting into "The Business" of Hollywood. I firmly believe that without a passion for some element of this creative world, you cannot ultimately succeed. So, if you are passionate and driven, read on.....

1. Don’t say you’re an "aspiring" actor. Embrace your talents and pronounce yourself proudly and simply: an ACTOR.

2. Work in community theatre in your hometown to hone your skills before running off to New York or LA. If you can commit your time to these productions, you will not only learn a lot, but also develop the necessary patience to work in this industry. (For example, for black female actresses who actually "make it," it takes an average of 12 years to become recognizable -- are you ready for this time committment?)

3. Always have a hustle. For me, my writing has been a valuable asset that has kept me from waiting tables but allowed me to audition and act. If you have a corporate gig, it’s going to be much harder.

4. Stay in classes. You must always keep learning and perfecting the craft of acting.

5. NEVER pay for an agent, manager, or other form of representation. Check with SAG and AFTRA for a list of franchised agents and ask around town about the reputable agencies available. An agent takes 10% commission from professional work they get for you and a manager can take 10 or 15%. PERIOD. No money should ever change hands prior to performing and being paid for a job.

6. NETWORK -- get to know all the people you can in the industry and work your way up via professional relationships. Doing extra work can be an interesting way to "get your foot in the door" but don’t do this for more than a few months because the pay is horrible and the hours are unbearable.

7. Stay on top of your game. Sitting around hoping to "get a break" is not productive. Always perform, network, and write to boost your exposure. One-person shows, group shows, and small tv roles help you begin to work your way up.

8. Find a commercial agent. This is a great way for fresh faces to get in the door of Hollywood.

9. Keep you headshots UPDATED (every year at least). They should be high-quality and in color!

10. The industry owes you NOTHING. Work hard and be prepared (if you’re not in a class, you should be reading Adler, Meisner, Stanislovsky, etc.) and when you book something, never say "It’s about time." There are a million people who have been through this biz and never found success, so carve out your own niche and make it happen while maintaining your integrity and modesty.

Most importantly -- if something/someone doesn’t give you a good feeling, WALK AWAY. There are plenty of shady people willing to take advantage of you and your gut will tell you every time.

Hope this helps! Let me know what you think....

XOXO, Robin