Support Your Fellow Actor

I am writing this blog post from Atlanta, Georgia where I am attending FaffCon, the Voiceover Unconference. But, if you are not a voice actor- don't stop reading. Because this blog is not about voiceover.

It is not even about acting.

This blog is dedicated to the support that performers can - and d0 - give each other. I have spent the last 36 hours watching a group of working talent give freely of their ideas, triumphs, tips and tricks. We have voice talent from around the country that have all gathered here in the spirit of  sharing. Some have been in the business for less then 2 years, many for over 20. But all are sharing. There are no egos. 

I always find it interesting when an actor feels threatened by another performer.  There really is no competition. I am the only actor that is Mercedes Rose. You are the only actor that is ____________ fill in your name here. We all come with our individual choices and life experiences and baggage. And if that part is yours, you will know it. It will even say so in the credits. There is enough work for us all. 

If every actor would concentrate on their own careers and not worry about what Actor Allan or Actress Abby is doing, who knows what levels we could all reach.

Those show biz people that take the time to share resources and give freely of their time and talents... those are the people that make us all look good.  Many will argue with me but my belief for all professional talent is this: "If you are right for the role, there is nothing you can do wrong. If you are wrong for the role, there is nothing you can do right." 

So many reasons go into the selection process of any talent - actor, voiceover, model or hula dancer. And many of those reasons we have little or no control over. So, do all you can to help yourself. Help others. Believe in yourself. Believe in others. 

And then just have fun. 

-- Mercedes Rose

 

 

Comments

[Morgan]

Hi Mercedes!

You nailed it! I have been a voice actress for the past 10 years or so and I have never been a profession where there has been such more love and support. It's what has really catapulted my career - the support from my fellow voice actors.

It's a concept that we really need to hear more about it; supporting each other rather than competing against each other.

By giving our knowledge and support away to those who really need it, we're doing a fantastic thing for the community.

Cheers for this!

[Silverscrn]

I like to think that this goes for everybody in the biz - writers, actors, comics, etc. It's a tough biz full of rejection and we need all the support we can get. That's why my own blog focuses on supporting all kinds of talented artists at different points in their careers.

[Toronto Actress]

Hi Mercedes!

New reader and fellow actress here. I just wanted to stop by and let you know that I really enjoy your blog! You have a wonderful, witty style of writing.

The way I see it, whether I'm helpful and friendly or I'm jealous and rude toward the actresses auditioning for a role I'm also audition for, I still have the exact same chance of booking that role! However, one of the options is certainly more likely to make me feel like a sad, lonely person than the other!

I love connecting with other actors and actresses (yes, including the girls with a similar look and age-range). Being able to share our experiences, industry tips and tricks, and simply supporting each other on this journey is a wonderful thing.

Best wishes to you on all your endeavors! :)

[Jason Satterlund]

I agree with Silverscrn. I've even seen jealousy across occupational lines. Sound guys envious of actors, or whatever.

Film is by far the most collaborative artform. It works best when we are all comfortable in our own gig, and appreciating what everyone else is bringing to the table. That's where the fun begins. . .

[James Jhon]

Nice post. I am sure that there are some elements of jealousness present in the professional world but one can't avoid the positive things also, as fellow actors supports each other in their achievements as well as in hard times also.
Female Voice Over Talent

[Female Voice Over Talent]

A very true post to go through. Thanks a lot.