Keeping on it ;)
So much is going on these days, a lot of it in my mind, but a goal without a plan is just a dream, right? After my last blog post, I decided to check in on a few things I had previously sent out. Some people kept radio silence, which I assume means the projects/classes are no longer happening, but I did find out that there will be stunt classes this summer, and I got a fitting for 2 days on set as an extra. Sometimes it pays off to keep pestering 😉 By pestering, I just mean checking in on things that were previously set in motion, not actually harrassing people to give you answers, just so we’re clear.
After the fitting, where I got a dress with lots of layers and sandals with socks as shoes, I went to the movies with my brother and cousin. After seeing some of the outfits on set last summer, I was kind of worried about being able to walk in the shoes, but it turns out I had nothing to worry about.
The next day, I did my homework on the set I would be on, prepared everything for the Friday, since you never know how long your days will be, and ordered some business cards. I have yet to make it to one of the Booze & Schmooze events, but now Carolyne will be coming with me, and I have business cards to hand out 🙂
Actually being on a real set again was amazing. Even as an extra, just being that close to where the magic happens is incredible. i was prepared and had a book and stuff to occupy myself during the long waits, but instead decided to leave it all in my bag and make friends. I was surprised that a lot of people were just there because it’s a fun break in their routine, but there were also a lot of faces I recognized from the acting scene, including some friends. I loved when we were filming, but I also loved talking to everyone on set. There was some bonding, learning new things, I got answers to some questions I had and a million more came to mind.
You see, I currently have enough days on set as an extra to become an ACTRA Additional Background Performer (AABP). It would mean being protected by the union, getting paid a lot more when I am actually on set and access to more opportunities. But, at the same time, you’re under the union’s jurisdiction and therefore can’t do any non-union work, which is my main opportunity to act right now. It’s a lot to consider, but everybody I talk to seems to be leaning the same way. I am just waiting to hear back from my local ACTRA branch regarding the million questions I had, then I will make my decision and move on to deciding whether or not I want to move to Toronto. As I said, a lot of what’s going on right now is hypothetical and in my mind.
Last Friday I worked at my new job, worked for McGill and volunteered for the Becket Players. I had emailed to see if they needed actors, but their 2014 season is cast. However, they needed volunteers, and one of my unofficial resolutions this year is to volunteer or make a donation every month, so I went. When I got there and found out what I would be doing I was slightly overwhelmed and kind of wishing I hadn’t agreed to it, but once I got started, I had a blast. I actually make a pretty decent waitress, the people were super nice and friendly, the show was really good and I truly enjoyed myself.
I have been working these past few days, but I have a lot of fun stuff coming up in the next week, including some auditions, movies (to watch, not be in) and social events. Can’t wait to share 😉
“I can accept failure, but I can’t accept not trying.”
-Michael Jordan
