WHAT DO YOUNG ACTORS NEED TO SUCCEED?
 

Let’s start with the obvious. Young actors need charisma, playfulness, and the ability to understand what is required for each audition or job. Actors also need an impeccable work ethic and an understanding of an industry that dishes out far more “not this time” results than actual bookings.

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In addition, success requires a dedicated parent who collaborates with their child, and vice versa. (Helping my students accept their parents as their primary cheerleaders is key to success!)

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WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST OBSTACLES?
 

In my experience, young actors not fully understanding this industry can be the biggest roadblock. It just seems fun to show up and be on a film or commercial set.  The road to get there is HARD and it requires discipline and tenacity! Yes, it's fun and exciting, but it takes a certain set of skills to balance that part of being an actor. 

 

Second, young actors and their families are more susceptible to scams than any other demographic in the industry. ​It can be frustrating to search for classes and guidance without knowing who to trust. Those national calls coming through big cities promising Netflix, Disney, and Hulu are scams. Period. Any company or individual who promises success but requires thousands of dollars and their specific 'classes' and 'headshot photographers' as a condition to get there is not acting in the best interest of your child.

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There are legitimate talent scout events with reputable agents in attendance, but agents never cost you a dime unless you work. Then—and only then—do you pay your agent.

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WHAT ARE REALISTIC GOALS?
 

• Representation from a SAG-AFTRA franchised agency
• Career guidance and acting coaching from individuals or schools that are truly invested in your child’s success

• Build a relationship with a coach (or coaches) who takes the time to understand your child, focus on their strengths, and address challenges that may be holding them back.

• Honesty. You should be working with a coach who provides real guidance and truthful feedback that challenges your child to excel in this craft. Simply being enrolled in a program, no matter how esteemed, does not mean the work will come. The work comes from WORK.

• Build materials that capture an actor’s essence, giving them the best chance to secure representation and stand out with casting
• Being prepared for success on set

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 HOW  CAN KENT COLLECTIVE HELP?

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I work as a private coach or workshop teacher to develop informed, nuanced actors, teaching them to understand script and story, while also building a sharpened work ethic and professional mindset. I am available to coach an audition/self-tape, teach privately, meet with parents and child to go over materials, pitch emails and provide motivation and career guidance.  

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WHERE TO START?

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Start Leveling Up by booking a private lesson or consultation! I also offer a free 20-minute Zoom meeting so you can ask questions and see if it's a good fit for your child's needs.  Email me at elena@kentcollectivetx.com. I can't wait to meet you! 

 

Questions? Please feel free to email me at elena@kentcollectivetx.com