When Is "Too Old" To Start Acting? With Phil Hayden
Are you considering pursuing an acting career but worried that you might be too old to start? We sat down with Phil Hayden, the Studio Director of Howard Fine Acting Studio Australia, to get his perspective on the matter.
When is "Too Old" To Start Acting?
The short answer is that it's never too late to start acting. However, as Phil points out, if you're starting in your 50s, you may face some challenges due to the fact that there are other actors who have been in the industry for much longer and have built up a wealth of experience and connections.
That being said, Phil suggests that there are still plenty of opportunities for actors who are starting later in life. For example, there are often smaller roles that established actors may not be interested in taking, such as roles with only a few lines of dialogue. These types of roles can be a great way for new actors to gain experience and build up their resumes.
Acting Later In Life, Where Do I Start?
In terms of getting started, Phil recommends taking some acting classes to develop your skills and build up your confidence. At Howard Fine Acting Studio Australia, we offer programs that are specifically designed to accommodate people who have other commitments, such as jobs or family responsibilities (10 Week Essential Acting Program and Part Time Professional Acting Program).
Once you feel ready, Phil suggests that you start looking for representation and putting your professional presence online. Platforms like StarNow, Showcast, and Casting Networks can be a great way to connect with casting directors and other industry professionals.
When it comes to reaching out to casting directors and agents, Phil advises that you should expect to hear nothing back, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't try. You never know when someone might see something in you that they've been looking for.
Is There A Benefit To Starting Later In Life?
Throughout the interview, Phil emphasises the importance of knowing yourself and bringing your unique life experiences to your acting work.
As he puts it:
"What we have to bring to the work is our intellect, our empathy, and our life experience. That's what we have to bring. And if you've got a heck of a lot of life experience, then you've got a heck of a lot to bring to this. So don't devalue that."
Pursuing Your Passion for Acting: It's Never Too Late
Overall, the message is clear: it's never too late to pursue your passion for acting. With the right training, mindset, and opportunities, you can achieve your dreams and build a fulfilling career in the industry. And if you're based in Australia, there are plenty of resources available to help you get started.
If you're considering a career in acting and want to learn more about how to get started, we encourage you to check out Howard Fine Acting Studio Australia and our range of programs and classes designed for actors of all levels and backgrounds.