Dear Toni,

I moved here from Dallas and am in the 30-35-age bracket.  I am interested in doing film work but am not sure this is a good medium for me considering my age. With all the reality shows out there, is there a good chance for someone my age to get back into the business in LA? I have had a lot of training. Also, I have anxiety when I audition and am not sure what to do about it.

Thanks in advance for any advice you can offer.
Nicole Vaughn

Dear Nicole,

You are actually in a good age range.  Danny Aiello did not get started until he was over 40, and look at how successful he has become and all the varied characters he plays. Lucille Ball was in her late 30’s when the Lucy Show first aired.  It is never too late. I believe that in many ways our paths have their own destiny.  It’s like Galileo said, “ two things can’t occupy the same space at the same time.”  You cannot try and do what you are already doing.  Try getting out of your way, taking a deep breath and letting the Universe reveal to you your next move.  I think all performers, writers, directors, producers, etc., suffer from anxiety whenever they have to produce or perform.  This emotion is common in all artistic people and it is attached to ego.  It is ego that gets in our way and it can make us scared and anxious.  However if used properly, the ego can cause an adrenalin boost, and the result is usually terrific work. I have this saying. “If you can breathe through fear… the other side is genius!”

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.