I realize that these are uncertain times and it is important for us to take care of ourselves and each other, Safety and health have to be everyone’s top priority.
I, for one, am confused as to how to utilize my creativity and artistic energy when I am being asked to sequester myself from the peers and teachers who inspire me.
Besides catching up on watching commercials, TV shows and films that serve as both entertaining and educational, I have proactively set up many online virtual acting classes. at Keep it Real Acting Studios.
Online classes are a great way to work on your craft, connect with like-minded people and also give some much-needed structure to the week. Students are getting some wonderful training, socializing with safety, and saving time and money with no travel.
And Virtual Zoom class settings are an excellent way to get ahead of the crowd with on the spot training for the future. SKYPE auditions! Yes, you heard it here. I predict they will be more prevalent even after the curve flattens. Certainly, self-tape auditions will be the norm rather than the occasional occurrence.
Thinking positively, online acting classes are a way to accomplish, train and get ahead in your career!
Here is a link to check out all the virtual classes that Keep It Real Acting Studios has to offer. http://www.keepitrealacting.com/virtual-classes
Another great source is Hollywood Winners Circle with Wendy Alane Wright.
Wendy is a former talent manager and now one of the leading career coaches in the world!
She can guide you to where you need to be spending your time energy and money to further your career. Wendy has the answers! Not only does she shape your career, but she is one of the nicest, most nurturing humans on the planet BECAUSE SHE ACTUALLY CARES.
Check her out and what she offers here: https://sales.hollywoodwinnerscircle.com/hwc-mastercourse/
I am also sharing some sources for financial assistance if you are in need. Check them out below:
Industry Resources:
The Actors Fund and the Actors Fund of Canada are not just for actors; they support everyone in the entertainment industry, including IATSE members. Check here to determine if you qualify for emergency assistance.
Motion Picture Television Fund offers emergency financial assistance to qualified industry members, including IATSE.
Hollywood Support Staff COVID-19 Relief Fund - Los Angeles is providing approved applicants with a one-time stipend.
SAG-AFTRA Foundation and SAG-AFTRA Motion Picture Players Welfare Fund (MPPWF) can provide disaster funds for eligible SAG-AFTRA members.
Employment Development Department (EDD) offers expedited unemployment benefits to those in California's entertainment industry who have lost their job due to the coronavirus.
Musicians Local 47 has established an Emergency Relief Fund to Los Angeles Musicians Union members who are unemployed due to the coronavirus shutdown.
Local 600 website (Cinematographers Guild) provides information for members.
WGA Health Plan now covers online doctor visits to combat coronavirus.
Food Banks: FEEDING AMERICA and Food Banks Canada.
Educational Resources for Children:
The SAG-AFTRA Foundation's children's literacy program, "Storyline Online" streams videos of actors reading to children.
In addition, Amy Adams and Jennifer Garner created #SAVEWITHSTORIES. You can watch your favorite celebrity reading children's books on Instagram and Facebook.
Save The Children has helpful hints and suggestions on talking to children about the coronavirus, plus activities, learning opportunities and more resources.
The Fred Rogers Center also offers tips on explaining this challenging time to children.
Khan Academy can help with remote learning during school closures.
Los Angeles County Library is offering temporary digital cards to use for all online resources, including watching television and movies.
Stay healthy and strong during this challenging time. Do not hesitate to reach out to me at keepitrealacting@gmail.com if you have any questions. We will get through this together!
About the Author: Judy Kain is an actress, author, teacher, and the owner of Keep It Real Acting Studios.