Dear Toni,

Almost a year ago, I made the decision to pack up my Sunfire with as much stuff as it could contain and make my way from Missouri to California.  I had said good-bye to the snow and hello to the beaches. 
I made the voyage to continue my acting education on a larger scale.  Within the past year, I have teamed up with an agent; have been taking acting classes focusing on character development, repetition, scene study, and auditioning; and have just started the actual auditioning process.  I have also been working on the production side, learning all I can.
What different ways can I work on becoming SAG?  What are some ways to stick out of the crowd (in a good way!)?  Is there anything else I should do that I may have overlooked?

Thank you,
Genesis Mayo

Dear Genesis,

            I would suggest that you, first of all, start auditioning for commercials.  From your picture, you appear to be a very physical and, I’m guessing, athletic young woman.  SAG will allow you to do one commercial without being in SAG.  On your second commercial, you will be considered a must-join.  If you save your money from the first commercial, you will then have the financial ability to join SAG.  Another way is to become a stuntwoman.  You can make a lot of money doing stunts and it is a great way to standout positively.  My last suggestion is to continue your training, don’t let yourself get bored.  The big job may be right around the corner and you want to be prepared.

Thank you for taking the time to write.
Toni Attell

Toni Attell is a hypnotherapist and acting coach. For people interested in her acting classes please call (818) 787-8685. For hypnotherapy go to www.hypnosis4you.net.