EXPERT ANSWER
Jan 07, 2020 - 01:14 PM
If you are tired of the 9-5 and want to break into the entertainment industry, the best thing to do is get started, right where you are, doing what you want to do (e.g., writing, acting, directing, production, set, make-up, wardrobe, effects). Make full use of the many free or inexpensive digital/online tools available, both to do the work and become known for it.
While it is very tough to break into the entertainment industry, the timing is especially good right now, as the streaming wars have created unprecedented demand for content for their platforms. You can get started working in local theater or indie films, or taking classes. You will almost always have to work for free at first as you build your craft and reputation.
You will most likely need to move to Los Angeles or New York to advance your career. There, you will need to follow industry publications such as Backstage, Variety and the Hollywood Reporter, and use those resources to stay informed and locate job opportunities. You will most likely need to work with an agent and take every opportunity you can to build up your network. Directors and producers prefer to work with people with whom they have prior experience.
Ultimately, entertainment is like any other industry: You need to stand out. Experience counts for a lot, and digital media makes it much easier both to gain that experience and be visible for it.
While it is very tough to break into the entertainment industry, the timing is especially good right now, as the streaming wars have created unprecedented demand for content for their platforms. You can get started working in local theater or indie films, or taking classes. You will almost always have to work for free at first as you build your craft and reputation.
You will most likely need to move to Los Angeles or New York to advance your career. There, you will need to follow industry publications such as Backstage, Variety and the Hollywood Reporter, and use those resources to stay informed and locate job opportunities. You will most likely need to work with an agent and take every opportunity you can to build up your network. Directors and producers prefer to work with people with whom they have prior experience.
Ultimately, entertainment is like any other industry: You need to stand out. Experience counts for a lot, and digital media makes it much easier both to gain that experience and be visible for it.
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