Getting Your Foot in the (Stage) Door

by Mark Adler

July 24th, 2007 in Careers, Creative, Detroit, Film, Grand Rapids, Jobs, Kalamazoo, Newsletter, The Film Issue

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Michigan continues to be a constant source for film talent. From feature films to commercials and indie film production, we’re seeing an increase in the film and video market. And that means we need people working both sides of the camera.

For actors, traditional theatre not only hones your thespian skills, it also exposes you to people in the industry who can find you work. Local theatre companies like Jeff Daniel’s Purple Rose Theatre in Chelsea are great resources for learning the craft.

In most cities, you can find acting and voice coaches to polish you up before heading to auditions. Check out reputable agencies like The Talent Shop in the Detroit area and Unique Models and Talent in Grand Rapids.

Little known fact: Detroit’s Screen Actors Guild branch is the oldest of the regional divisions and still ranks second for talent in industrial films (No, LA isn’t number one… Washington D.C. is!).

Considering that for every star out in front of the camera there are 10 behind it, perhaps you’d like to dig in on the production side of the filmmaking biz. The Michigan Production Alliance offers a series of “PA Boot Camps” to learn the ropes (and cables) to become a production assistant. Or, study with fellow film students at the state’s best schools including The Motion Picture Institute of Michigan, College for Creative Studies, University of Michigan, The Interlochen Center for the Arts, Specs Howard School of Broadcast Arts or get drawn into animation with KAFI at Kalamazoo Valley Community College.

The Detroit Film Center is a perfect example of organizations cultivating indie talent and preserving the art and craft of the industry. Scheduled to move into new digs in Eastern Market this September, The DFC offers aspiring filmmakers the full package with classes, video/audio equipment rentals and a screening series for rarely-seen films.

With the recent explosion in local indie film production, you can usually find your way onto a crew where you can pick up the trade as a volunteer. The Michigan Film Office maintains a production guide that contains contact information for both talent agencies and resource for crew, equipment and facilities.

As we build up our talent and experience base, Michigan becomes more attractive to filmmakers who are looking for the incredible resources we have to offer. And as this trend continues, we may start to see young dreamers with stars in their eyes, buying a bus ticket that doesn’t take them to the West Coast, but to a local stop right here in Michigan!

More resources at:
Michigan Film Schools
Michigan Theatre Companies