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by Chris Agos All actors need reels. The question is how to build an acting reel that works. In Part 1, we talked about the reasons for having an acting reel (showreel), covered the hierarchy of reel footage sources, and highlighted the importance of building an actor’s credibility through a reel. By the way, notice I’m not calling them “actor demos” or “demo reels”. Demos are for voice over. Anyway….

by Chris Agos If you’re an actor and you don’t have an acting reel showcasing your work, you’re doing it VERY wrong. I don’t care how much or little experience you have if you’re pursuing an acting career, a reel (or showreel for non-US readers) can be the first step in getting work you’ll be able to book again and again. Why?  The number one question casting directors have about actors…

by Mandy Walsh Being an understudy is a crazy ride, but I think it’s important for every actor to do it at least once during their career. Being an understudy is a unique opportunity to learn about your own personal process since so much of the work must be done on your own. Plus you have the different perspective of creating a performance from the outside in. You get the…

If you have visible tattoos and you book a commercial or TV show, know that an actor’s tattoos will either need to be covered OR you must provide a release from your tattoo artist(s) before you can appear on camera. Even if the images on your body have not been copyrighted by the artist, production companies and their clients are generally not going to risk a lawsuit by displaying them…

As actors, our training is never “done”. Like any other skill, acting takes a lot of training, practice and a serious dedication to continue honing your craft. Whether it’s working on a project, taking classes with ASC or doing research, we should always stay on the path of learning. We at ASC suggest picking up a good book on the subject and learning something new. Here are our suggestions for…

For the past five years, I have been fortunate enough to work steadily as a commercial director. I have worked with all manner of clients from fortune 500 companies to small start-ups. It’s as challenging as it is fun. Now when I’m able to teach an on-camera class with acting students, I like to draw a comparison between life here on Earth and this place I have come to know…

Deciding when to join the actor’s unions is an important step for every performing artist. Whether it’s going Equity or joining SAG-AFTRA, the question of if and when you should start paying dues is an important step in the process of becoming a professional actor. It can be a little confusing as to whether or not it’s a good idea at this point in your career. Luckily, one of our…

I’m a dreamer. I believe that a dream without a plan is just a wish. Two years ago, I decided that after years of begging my parents to let me pursue acting, I was going to take control of my career and follow my dreams. My parents didn’t support my aspirations because they thought it’s a waste of time, I knew if I wanted to do this I would need to be…

By Sylvie Sadarnac Last December, in this very blog, Elohim Peña described how a dozen or so of us decided to form a post-Acting Studio Chicago actors’ group. We had all studied under Janelle Snow and wanted to continue setting goals, broadening our training, and generally supporting one another. It’s titled “3 Benefits Of Being Involved In An Actor’s Group“. Eighteen months after we started Beyond Janelle, our group is…

Need some help with the perfect Holiday gift for the Actor in your life? At Acting Studio Chicago, we’ve come up with 12 Holiday Gift Ideas for Actors (regardless of whether or not they be aspiring, experienced, amateur or professional.)  1. A Functional Bag that’s also HUGE. – Actors sometimes have to go to work, then an audition, then back to work, then another audition and then to rehearsal. Having a…