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Who Am I?

Every promising performing artist asks themself that single question. Our veteran SAG/AFTRA actor/instructor guides you toward the answer in this virtual classroom based on his own decades-long stage and screen career.

By Perren Page
THE MANY FACES OF PERREN: As an actor with a whimsical, mischievous side, Perren Page has kept his face in front of audiences on stage and in front of the camera for the better part of four decades. (Above) On the set of “M*A*S*H”

THE MANY FACES OF PERREN: As an actor with a whimsical, mischievous side, Perren Page has kept his face in front of audiences on stage and in front of the camera for the better part of four decades. (Above) On the set of “M*A*S*H”

 
Exactly what is this animal we call “showbiz,” and why are we so drawn to it? Well, we’re fascinated because “showbiz” encompasses the field of entertainment. As performers (both potential and practicing), though, we need a fuller understanding of the term. To do so, let’s break the word down to “show” and “biz.” Showbiz is, indeed, a business — big business — ranging from studios, agents, casting directors, managers, and publicists to writers, producers, directors, wardrobe, makeup, and performers. About 90 percent of showbiz is the “business” part, while the remaining 10 percent is the “show” part. Do your homework as performers through classes (John Robert Powers, Barbizon, etc.) and competitions (IMTA, MAAI, iPOP!), and the “show” can be very rewarding to your “biz.”
 
That said, the question on the mind of anyone reading this column who is seeking to enter the world of showbiz relates to the “breaking into” part, because, apart from performance skills, there are a number of issues to consider as you set out to become a star. In the rest of this column, I’d like to lead you through a couple of virtual classroom sessions, similar to the real ones I lead at John Robert Powers in Norwalk, Connecticut. Using your imagination, pretend you are now one of my students. Fasten your seat belts, as off we go....
 

CLASS #1: INTRODUCTIONS

You will be introduced to two people today: Me (in the form of my acting experience) and you. Let’s see how much you know yourself. First of all, why are you here in this acting class? To be on TV, be in the movies, be a star, become famous, make lots of money, or become an actor/actress? All are good answers. Let’s examine that last one — actor/actress.
 

Additional Showbiz Articles

Breaking into Showbiz articles archive

Read More Breaking into Showbiz

 

Summer 2016

The Dog Ate My Homework

While the performance is what the audience will remember, it’s the homework done before the performance that actors cannot afford to forget.

By Adam Hill

 

Spring 2016

Hooray for Hollywood!

Before you book your trip and pack your bags for your move to Los Angeles, make sure you’re covered in case your stardom takes time to achieve.

By Adam Hill

 

Winter 2015

From the Mouths of Those Who Know...

Sometimes the most important acting lessons can come straight from the legends and today’s stars themselves.

By Adam Hill

 

Fall 2015

A Condensed Primer in Acting

In order to overcome obstacles, you must be willing to ask yourselves the right questions that will help you get past them and master your craft.

By Adam Hill

 

Summer 2015

All the World's a Stage

The secret to becoming a movie star is never being afraid to leave Hollywood for the spotlight of the theatre.

By Adam Hill

 

Spring 2015

You Have a Dream

Following your passion means finding a balance between the priorities of your daily life and taking the steps to achieve your goals.

By Adam Hill

 

Winter 2014

Defining Your Own Reality

If what you’re doing feels like work, you should learn new ways with which to enjoy it, so you can fully master your craft.

By Adam Hill

 

Fall 2014

The Right Direction

Just like actors, casting directors are talented individuals who should be respected and revered as such.

By Adam Hill

 

Summer 2014

Say What You Mean to Say

By first understanding what it is that your character’s dialogue means, you’ll better learn how to deliver your lines in a far more effective manner.

By Adam Hill

 

Spring 2014

Answering Important Questions

Knowing what it takes to succeed as an actor—in any medium—all comes down to having the confidence in yourself to pursue and achieve your goals.

By Adam Hill

 

Winter 2013

What a Character

By studying the backgrounds of the roles that we’re playing and looking at the actual person, actors and actresses can gain an edge in developing their own uniqueness.

By Adam Hill

 

Fall 2013

A Message for the Parents

When a child dreams of becoming a big star in the entertainment industry, focusing on that goal can actually open more options than expected.

By Adam Hill

 

Summer 2013

Picture Perfect

Taking the right headshot is an important decision for any aspiring actor or model.

By Adam Hill

 

Spring 2013

Use Your Imagination

As children we learn to develop our creative skills, and to become a great actor it might just help to channel your youth.

By Adam Hill

 

Winter 2012

IT’S TIME TO STUDY

Many people are familiar with the art of acting, but they’re lost when it comes to actually preparing and learning.

By Adam Hill

 

Fall 2012

To Each His Own

It’s fine to emulate the celebrities that you admire, but the most important thing you can do is embrace your own unique qualities.

By Adam Hill

 

Summer 2012

Following Your Bliss

Doing whatever it takes to be happy shouldn’t have to be an unreasonable goal for anyone in the entertainment industry.

By Adam Hill

 

Spring 2012

Getting over your Fears

The only thing we have to fear is fear itself... unless you can learn to conquer it and move on to success.

By Adam Hill

 

Winter 2011

Your Real Victories

By simply working to achieve your dreams, you’re taking away your critics’ ability to call you a loser.

By Adam Hill

 

Fall 2011

Off to Work you Go

You could learn a lot about work ethic and a positive outlook by taking a page from Snow White’s Seven Dwarfs.

By Adam Hill

 

Summer 2011

It's All about Objectives

When we play characters we set goals for them, and that should be no different when it comes to our real lives.

By Adam Hill

 

Spring 2011

Exposing your Self Image

A positive self esteem can go a long way in the entertainment industry, as long as you don’t let negativity get in your way.

By Adam Hill

 

Winter 2010

It’s a Scary World Out There

When it comes to selecting an acting coach or teacher, there’s no true way to protect yourself from the phonies.

By Adam Hill

 

Fall 2010

Picturing Your Success

By acting like a professional, you’ll be able to win over entertainment professionals and achieve your career goals.

By Adam Hill

 

Summer 2010

Making the Sacrifice

In order to achieve your dreams, you have to be willing to do whatever is necessary.

By Adam Hill

 

Spring 2010

Best Friends Forever

In the entertainment industry, success is only as strong as the bond between the talent and the supporting cast.

By Jim Purdy

 

 

Winter 2009

Knowing your Role

If you're an actor, model or music artist, your success ultimately relies on your dedication and passion for being prepared.

By Jim Purdy

 

Fall 2009

She’s an American Girl

Jasmine Murray’s experience as Miss Mississippi’s Outstanding Teen helped prepare her for American Idol fame.

By Ashley Burns

 

 

Spring 2009

Knowledge is power

It doesn’t matter which industry you’re looking to break into—if you don’t do your homework, you’ll find most doors are shut.

By Tisha Savage

 

Summer 2008

Nailing the Interview

Total success through self-confidence, personality and a rock solid delivery.

By Lisa Maile

 

Winter 2007

Why Not YOU?

Pageants can bring out the best in someone looking for an entertainment/showbiz-industry career, but they also can create a few initial pitfalls to success. Here’s how to deal with it.

By Bob Luke

 

Fall 2007

Waiting in the Wings

Miss Teen USA 2003 Tami Farrell teaches lessons that all star-struck hopefuls should know by heart. By Tami Farrell, Miss Teen USA 2003

 

Summer 2007

Billboard's Dance-hit Queen

By learning the art of competition through pageantry, Kristine W went from small-town Miss Washington to breaking Madonna’s record for consecutive hits atop the Billboard Club Play chart.

By Scott Kearnan

 

Winter 2006

Breaking into Showbiz - Authoring Your Success

As this pageant-savvy agent tells it, your Hollywood destiny rests in your own hands as well as with other key industry players. Knowing your part in the process can make all the difference.

By Dawn Reese

 

Fall 2006

Breaking into Showbiz - The Nine

School of success: Nine young breakthrough actors shine a reality spotlight on what it takes to fulfill dreams of becoming Hollywood stars. Their experience teaches lessons any up-and-coming performer can use.

 

Summer 2006

Who Am I?

Every promising performing artist asks themself that single question. Our veteran SAG/AFTRA actor/instructor guides you toward the answer in this virtual classroom based on his own decades-long stage and screen career.

By Perren Page

 

Spring 2006

It's All In The Packaging

Seeking success as a performer or model isn’t easy, right? This international runway model and actress knows just how you feel — and she’s grateful to teach you her success secrets.

By Suzanne Von Schaack

 

Winter 2005

Profiles in Acting

These women will tell you what the job is really all about... and how you can get started, too!

By Cathrine Goldstein

 

Fall 2005

The ‘Instant Success’ of Tyler Patrick Jones

A 7-year-old boy discovered at a birthday party becomes a major acting prodigy in a matter of months.

By Martin Weiss

 

Summer 2005

The Career Can Wait Until You Educate

We think we know actors and understand the mechanics of their profession. It looks glamorous and appealing. It looks effortless! It ain’t.

By Konnie Kittrell

 

Spring 2005

Pop Music’s Woes Good News for New Acts

Music-industry groove master Gary Haase explains why the record industry's song-downloading daze may provide the greatest chance in decades to spin the rock ’n’ roll roulette wheel — and win big!

By Gary Haase

 

Winter 2004

Here We Come, Commercials, TV & Film! But How?

A talent manager and specialist in child performers explains the teamwork needed to maximize a young star’s Hollywood success.

By T.J. Stein

 

Fall 2004

How To Be a Beauty School Drop-in

A Southern California-based beauty, education, and staffing expert offers her advice to those considering a career in makeup artistry.

By Christina M. Kane

 

Summer 2004

Breaking Into Showbiz: A Master’s Class in Acting

Throughout the 20th century, the actors’ art has had a number of innovative, if prickly, practitioners. Adam Hill advises you to learn from all of them.

By Adam Hill

 
  For the complete behind-the-scenes story and all the details on this and other exciting competitive events from across America, as well as a wealth of advice to improve your chances of victory, be sure to order Pageantry today.  
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