Having a good mentor as an actor is a huge asset. Michael Jordan (Star of Space Jam) once said in reference to his mentors Forest Whitaker, Ben Affleck and Oprah that, “As an actor, a solo mission doesn’t really happen that often...somebody that’s been through it before that’ll reach back and give you some sound advice is so valuable...and I’ve been pretty lucky to have some good people.” Jordan is just one good example of why having a good mentor in Houston can be the best thing you have done for your career as an actor.
Having a good mentor in this competitive business can be an invaluable resource, perhaps even helping those that are still waiting tables to become the actors they are now after finally getting that big break. So continue reading further if you want some great sound tips for finding a good acting mentor in Houston.
Do not hesitate to connect with your teachers at acting school. When you are attending acting school; one of the best resources you have are the skilled instructors right at your fingertips that are already active in the industry and know what is to be expected of a working actor in the “real world.” You may even be able to get private consultations with that instructor if your acting school offers that to students. Be present in your classes and show enthusiasm, your teacher will see your dedication and remember that later. Ask questions and even sign up for extra workshops and most importantly stay in touch with your teachers even after you have graduated. They are the first step in creating your network in the entertainment industry.
Simply asking can go a long way and ‘90s singer and songwriter Lisa Loeb got a gig in the film Reality Bites (1994) by simply asking and having a whole lot of courage and faith. At the time she actually lived next door to the lead in the film, Ethan Hawke and took it upon herself and gathered her courage to hand him her demo tape which was in turn passed on to the director Ben Stiller. Okay, so yeah cool story bro. But people really devalue just asking. Make a list of your favorite actors and find out with a little research of where they may be doing an event; ideally something that involves a discussion panel. Make a list of intriguing questions and ask, you may even just ask them to be your mentor! You will never know unless you just ask.
As an aspiring actor, the importance of networking can not be stressed enough and it is not just about building contacts so you can find work. Networking can be another great way to find others that are further along in their career and someone to learn from as well. You can network with ease just by attending acting workshops, conferences, film screenings and perhaps even join an improv group and use the internet and social media to your advantage. There are groups on facebook that you can join and you may even find multiple mentors on discussion boards.
Though if you can’t get your heroes to mentor you, you can always be mentored by book. The great thing about using a book or guide like Sanford Meisner on Acting, is that you can improve what you know about acting without having to worry about making time or dealing with someone's agent and security personnel to get mentored. If anything you should take away from all of this that to be a successful mentee, you need to be open to learning and never stop asking questions.
