For young Australian actors aiming to crack into the competitive US market, it can be quite daunting. A new place, new people and thousands of competitors.
Melbourne casting director Lilly Dawson says it's important to test the waters, but be prepared beforehand.
In a statement, she announced what her tips were for transitioning into the US market. They include:
- Join a network that can support you prior to your arrival in LA for when you hit town – such as Australians in LA or Australians in Film
- If you are going to LA to test the waters, try and have as many appointments lined up as possible for the week you arrive - have your agent do this prior to departure. If you don't have an agent, make the contact yourself
- Have somewhere comfortable to stay when you land – settling into a good environment straight away is really important
- If you are serious about relocating to LA, have a great immigration attorney ready to meet with and arrange all supporting documentation for your particular visa
- Try and have your whole trip planned with as many meetings secured prior to departure – don't get there and try and 'wing it'. Be organised and have a plan
- Go to every single party you're invited to. Have business cards printed up and ready to hand out – be sure to socialise
Dawson, who recently helped cast Australian film The Cup, leads an international program aimed to help young, aspiring Hollywood actors and TV presenters from local shores, entitled Hollywood Immersive. It's designed to “educate, inform, connect and inspire” the budding stars – aged between 15 and 25.
"The program provides students with introductions to key American industry professionals to give students the contacts, tools and guidance that can help pave the way for a career within the industry,” Dawson said in a statement.
“With training from the best of the best in America, the program is designed to teach students the intricacies of the industry, with hands-on learning, theory and valuable industry insights.
“All of this is done in a safe and controlled environment, as well as providing a lot of fun throughout the process.”
The acting program is split into two groups of 15 (15-18 years and 19-25 years) and will teach students the necessities of the acting realm, including hands-on learning, theory and insights into the industry. Students will spend the week in Los Angeles studying under acting coach Margie Haber at her studio in West Hollywood.
Students learn audition techniques, cold reading techniques, attend US dialect coaching and improvisation classes. They are introduced to agents, managers and casting directors, along with other industry professionals including producers, directors and working actors.
This year the program is branching out to include TV presenters. Through the program, Creative Management Entertainment Group's Marki Costello will guide the aspiring TV hosts/presenters and students will be involved in a "bootcamp".
The program doesn't mean stardom or success: it's more for confidence and providing those important skills/information.
“Students of the game” need to apply via the online website. Teen applications have ended while adults will have until mid-January. Presenters will be auditioned up until the end of December.
The program is supported by American actress Eva Mendes, who offers one lucky actor a scholarship which will cover an all-expenses paid trip.
For more information and to apply, visit the website.