My good friend Jen Dolynchuk has been out in Toronto now for a while, I’m not sure exactly how long to be honest because I forgot to ask her, but she is out there to act. Jen has a lot of experience as a tv personality interviewing bands, actors etc, as well as experience acting for the camera. Jen was kind enough to fill us in briefly on what to do when you first get out to Toronto, I’m sure a lot of this advice will carry over to other cities as well though.
Hooray! You have arrived in Toronto, one of the great Canadian acting hubs. Home of the legendary Second City, Toronto has been home to some amazing actors such as Martin Short, Sarah Polly, Eugene Levy and Rachel McAdams.
It can be a bit daunting to a new actor when they first arrive in the city. The very best place to start is to get an agent. Make sure you choose an agent that is recognized by Actra. This list can be found on the Actra website. Make sure you have your professional headshots and current resume ready. You can submit yourself online but it is also a good idea to mail in hard copies to the office as well. Agents can be particular about whom they want on their roster but as an actor you have a right to be just as picky. Try to find an agent who best understands your acting goals. Have a plan for yourself and decide which venue you would like to pursue whether it is musical theatre, commercial, television, film, or all of the above. Once you do find an agent you should be on your way to auditions in no time. Remember when it comes to auditions you must always be completely prepared and on time. An audition is like a job interview and in order to nail a gig you have to blow away the casting director. Remember you will not get every role you go out for so try not to take anything personally. Just be happy for the experience and move on to prepare for your next audition. Also be sure to sign up online for the Casting Workbook, which lists auditions, posts sides and gives you a chance to apply for auditions online.
If you would like to gain more acting experience there are some fabulous places to study such as the Actors Studio, Ryerson University and Second City. Toronto is also a great place to find independent film projects. There are many young directors and writers who are eager to get their projects off the ground. Check out Craiglist.com and Mandy.com to submit yourself for short films that may be of interest to you. However if you do use these websites just beware and use your street smarts. Unfortunately there are those who are more than happy to take advantage of inexperienced actors trying to make it. Be sure you are paid for your work on any independent project. Acting is an extremely difficult career choice to pursue but if you are determined, patient and professional you should find success. Good luck out there!
