I'm an aspiring actress! Anyone been in this same situation and can help me out?

Question

I have wanted to start acting ever since i was small. But I never knew who to talk to or where to go and finally I came across Gary Spatz "The Playground" and my parents have to pay $3,850 for one year of classes! Do you think I got ripped off/scammed? Well, I am a little bit shy does anyone have any tips on how to overcome this??? Anything would help really..

thank you! :)

Answer 1

It really depends on the situation. The Playground (Gary's Young Actors' Conservatory) is an industry leading organization that is often referred by agents and managers after they decide to work with a client. Maybe you should start by looking for representation and then take their direction on lessons.

You don't mention your age either. The Playground only works with students up to about age 18 - after that you are on to other places for help. So, that might be a factor.

Finally, on the issue of being shy. That is something that would actually be helped by acting classes - even if you never go on to be a professional actor the classes help people to open up and be more comfortable speaking to others. I wouldn't consider that a hindrance but there is a lot more to a career as an actor than just the desire to be one. The desire is the FIRST thing you need - then you need skills and tools that you will only learn in acting classes. They don't have to be the most expensive acting classes you can find but you often get what you pay for (that's certainly the case at The Playground).

If you are looking for preparation for the profession of acting in an environment that mimics the ones you would be working in and where the director of the conservatory has been involved in the beginnings of the careers of many many successful actors then The Playground may be right for you. Try a couple of classes and then decide.