Ask The Expert

Phone:	661-537-3600
Fax:	661-295-7741
Address:	27240 Turnberry Lane, Suite 200
	Valencia, CA 91355

Section: Acting

Q: How old should a child be to get the most out of acting lessons?

A:

I believe the child should be at least six years old. This is the age where they begin to read, and are able to take direction. Many parents start earlier, but I don't think it's as beneficial in the learning curve. A child can pick up and apply some useful acting techniques beginning at age six - more difficult if it's any earlier than that.

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

(2) people have found this answer helpful.

Section: Acting

Q: I imdb'd you, are you Jason Scott Buyer, or Jason Buyer the casting assistant?

A:

Thank you for the inquiry. Yes, they are both me, although I have not been a casting assistant in quite some time. I have been a casting my own projects for the past five years and have been an acting coach for the past six. Marketing The Actor has been in business since 2002, but is brand new to Valencia.

www.marketingtheactor.com

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

(3) people have found this answer helpful.

Section: Acting

Q: There are so many acting classes and coaches out that want to make your kid a star. How do you know if they are reputable? Are there some red flags to look for? I am just leary of the whole business. Thank you.

A:

If an acting teacher or organization promises that they are going to make your kid a star, I would run the other way. That should not be the goal of any acting coach, or teacher. You want to find an acting coach that currently has clients on a series (aka series regulars - * I have five), and has working relationships with other agents, managers and casting directors. Most importantly, an acting coach should focus on the technique and status of the student, rather than selling the dream. You should also be able to audit any group class or private. Finally, be weary of the "acting schools" (colleges are fine). Some of these organizations are similar to car dealerships, making you sign contracts (never sign a contract unless you have been booked for a paying job) etc. An acting school who wants you to be under contract with their company wants you to pay for their overhead. Yes, it's a scam.

www.marketingtheactor.com

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

(8) people have found this answer helpful.

Section: Acting

Q: Are acting lessons good for adults too.

A:

Acting lessons are great for adults! My clients range from six years old to sixty years old. This is a technique that can be learned, at any age.

www.marketingtheactor.com

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

(6) people have found this answer helpful.

Section: Acting

Q: My teen daughter wants to take acting lessons. She is pretty down to earth and does have some stars in her eyes. Who knows, maybe she might be "discovered" but I am a realist as a parent. What real benefits are there to acting lessons for a career outside of entertainment?

A:

This is great question, and one that I get asked quite frequently. It's usually the parents who are looking for their child to become a "star", so it's refreshing to hear your perspective. Acting class is a great way of providing confidence (ex: controlling nerves in front of a large group), and a wonderful way to learn how to prepare for an interview. (The audition) Most importantly, class teaches you how to become a leader, based on the choices they are bringing in the room. It also opens up an amazing creative avenue, something that kids lose as they get older.

If it is something that they enjoy and are learning the right way (this is so important!), you really can't lose. Minimum risk - amazing reward.

www.marketingtheactor.com

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

(7) people have found this answer helpful.