How To Relocate For Acting with Shane Savage
Thinking about pursuing your acting career in a different country?
Relocating for your craft can be an exciting and challenging endeavour. To provide you with valuable insights, we interviewed Shane Savage, a talented actor who embarked on a journey of pursuing his dreams in a foreign land. This interview, offers inspiration and guidance for actors considering a move to a different country. Let's dive into Shane's experiences and advice that can help you navigate this exciting path.
Discovering the Power of Research
When considering a move, Shane emphasises the importance of thorough research. Understand the unique market of the city you’re interested in (like London, Los Angeles, New York, Vancouver, or Toronto), and assess if they align with the life you envision.
Health, including mental well-being, should be a top priority. It's crucial to be aware of the city's culture and determine if it resonates with you. Research not only the industry, but also the specific work produced in that city. Identify the skill sets and dialects required for the desired roles to prepare yourself effectively.
Resources and Support
To ease your transition, Shane advises actors to seek resources and support in the new city. Acting studios, coaches, and mentors play a vital role in honing your skills and understanding the local industry. Enrol in classes or seek private coaching to familiarise yourself with the local landscape, build a network, and make friends.
A trusted acting coach can recommend agencies, classes, and provide invaluable insights into the industry. If you know someone in the city, their advice and recommendations can be immensely helpful in finding the right resources.
The Importance of Union Rules
Understanding the Union rules of the industry in your new city is crucial. Some cities may require you to obtain a work permit or visa before you can be legally employed. Being aware of the Union's requirements, such as joining as a member or acquiring a green card, is essential for accessing certain opportunities. If the Union presents challenges, explore non-union work options or consider moving to a city with more flexible rules to gain the necessary credits for future acting efforts.
Sonder ACTING STUDIO: A Dream RealiSed
Shane shares his journey of starting his own studio, Sonder Acting Studio, in Canada. The name "Sonder" is derived from a German website called "The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows," encapsulating the realisation that every passerby has a life as rich and complex as our own. Shane believes that as actors, studying the art of empathy and understanding others' lives is at the core of their craft. Sonder Acting Studio was born out of a desire for creative freedom and the opportunity to align teaching methods with Shane's own experiences and values.
Creating a Culture of Excellence
Shane's motivation for opening his studio was twofold. First, he aimed to establish a vibrant community of artists who create for the love of their craft, fostering a supportive environment that shifts the cultural landscape. Second, he wanted to raise the standards of acting by nurturing actors' skills and demanding excellence. In some regions, complacency can be prevalent due to an abundance of opportunities. Shane encourages actors to embrace a mindset where "good" is the baseline and greatness is the pursuit. Sonder Acting Studio aims to provide the necessary tools and training for long-term success, rewarding the process itself and elevating performances.
IN CONCLUSION
Relocating to a different country for acting requires careful consideration, research, and access to valuable resources and support. Shane Savage's journey and advice serve as an inspiration for actors contemplating a similar path.
Remember to research the market, seek reputable acting studios and coaches, understand union rules, and surround yourself with a supportive community. Consider Shane's experiences and words of wisdom as you embark on this exciting adventure!