Navigating a Teen's Career in the Entertainment Industry: Start Small and Stay Grounded

Introduction:

Welcome to the exciting and challenging world of the entertainment industry, where passion and hard work meet the ever-changing landscape of opportunities. As a parent of a teenager looking to pursue a career in this dynamic field, it's essential to lay a strong foundation and take the right steps. This article offers expert advice on how to start small, learn the ropes, and create a supportive environment for your child to thrive.

Start Small and Local

The initial stages of a career in entertainment can be overwhelming and complex. To ease into roles and responsibilities, consider starting with areas that involve less moving parts and fewer people. Print and voice over work provide a great starting point, offering a simpler environment to learn the fundamentals of acting and character creation. These roles allow your child to develop essential skills, such as making creative choices and understanding directorial vision.

Starting small also means that the workload is more manageable. It's crucial to understand that the transition to a full-time acting career, say 70 hours a week, is a significant leap. By building a solid foundation in voice over and print, your teen can assess if they enjoy and excel in this demanding profession. Hours might include just three days a year, allowing your child to find a balance and avoid burnout.

Learning Through Experience

While many people initially think of their child receiving parts in a movie, the reality is much different. It's about humility, dedication, and the ability to bring someone else's vision to a wider audience. To prepare your teenager, watch a plethora of YouTube videos on both voice over and modeling. Aim to watch at least 200 videos in each category, then choose a direction based on their interests and strengths.

After gaining experience in voice over and modeling, do approximately 200 jobs in your nearest large city. This exposure will provide valuable insights into the industry and prepare your child for the next step. If additional opportunities arise, moving to places like Los Angeles can open up more doors. Remember, the journey is about learning and taking on challenges, so choose projects wisely and seek projects that align with your child's goals and talents.

Building a Supportive Team

Single-handedly navigating the entertainment industry can be fraught with challenges. Establishing a team of 5 adults who can assist with managing your child's schedule and overseeing situations is crucial. This support network will provide an extra layer of security and backup, ensuring that your child is well-equipped to handle the ups and downs of the industry.

Be wary of unconscious biases and the pressure to conform to unreasonable demands. Many acting classes are taught by instructors who are not actively working in the industry and may maintain students indefinitely. Instead, focus on foundational skills in voice over and print, as these mediums allow for a more practical learning experience.

Balancing Aspirations and Reality

The entertainment industry can be unpredictable, with periods of ups and downs. When times are tough, finding a stable, non-entertainment job or living arrangement is vital. Having a roommate who works in a completely different field or living at home offers a secure base and access to resources during lean times. Some studios and agencies offer temporary work that can help bridge gaps in income, such as stuffing envelopes, typing checks, and driving home celebrities.

Finally, remember that formal education should remain a priority. Ensure that your child maintains a balanced life, combining creative pursuits with academic responsibilities. This holistic approach can provide a foundation of stability, especially when the industry becomes uncertain.