Ah, there is a hot new magazine on the stands with a catchy title - L.A. Actor.
It sure is a welcome addition to the local Southern California performing arts scene.
The slick - well-thought out entry - reminds me of the old "Drama-Logue" weekly that used to be a literal "bible" for all the struggling thespians in Hollywood striving for that elusive break in the biz.
The premier edition features Harrison Ford on a glossy cover.
Inside, there are a number of practical features that are sure to add luster to any young actor's tools of the trade.
For instance, there is an insider feature on how to break into commercials. A toughie, I know, since I traversed that well-travelled road in my younger macaroni & cheese days.
There's also a useful guide with audition tips.
In fact, there's also a section on "Casting Notices", in the event a talented few are without a Theatrical Agent doing their bidding, yet.
By the way, don't be disheartened about that.
When I was in-between reps, I submitted myself to casting offices - and on a couple of fortuitous occasions - landed an audition. And - in spite of what the naysayers thought about agent-less-submissions - snatched up the assignment, too!
So, "never say never". Keep the faith, eh?
An informative article on A.C.T. (Actors Comprehensive Training) may be of particular interest to those just starting to nose their way around the lot without much experience under the belt, as well.
One of their staffers notes A.C.T.'s mission is to,
"Bring together the community and help each other network."
When first launching a career in Tinsel town, an unknown actor needs all the help he can get, trust me!
And when they say "trust me", don't!
The industry periodical also has a list of casting directors and agents to submit pictures and resumes to.
Heck, that saves a lot of time going through the yellow pages, or the aggravation of hot-footing it up to the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) or AFTRA (the American Federation of Radio & TV Artists) to snap up a list.
If you're looking for some exposure, or just keen on impressing a handful of friends, L.A. Actor also has a centerfold section where an enterprising performer keen on self-promotion can plop down a few bucks to have a head shot printed alongside other struggling actors in an upcoming issue.
Who knows, you might be discovered - kid!
But, remember what Walter Winchell said,
"Hollywood is where they shoot too many pictures and not enough actors."
