This article is from 2nd issue of OTS E-Magazine Pages 68/69

Some Stage Motherly Advice

Written by Josie Kline, Edited by Marc Isaacs

Many of us have heard the phrase, "There is no such thing as a small role, just a small actor." In a market that provides fewer opportunities than New York and LA, a small role takes on a different meaning in Houston, Texas. It presents a unique set of challenges for both working actors and aspiring actors. As the mother of a 10 year-old actress, I've experienced this first-hand.

Let's look at the independent film scene. A small but fast-growing amount of indies are being made in Houston. Some are shorts; some are full-length features. Due to limited budgets, or lack of funding, many projects don't offer pay or offered deferred pay only. Pay (or lack thereof) aside, acting in independent films can also mean working crazy hours, dealing with last-minute schedule changes, and enduring other inconveniences. And not everyone will step into a lead role, meaning some actors will experience the often mind-numbing challenges without the benefit of a speaking role or much "face time."

ACTRESS - Courtney Rose - OTS ID: 20985; /Copyright: Mark Matthews The Loft OTS ID: 20335;
Credits: H/M Kendall Thompson OTS ID: 25858

So why pursue smaller roles (or extra work) in independent films? Well, first consider the benefits of each role based on it own merit. A role that has no lines or makes one a "face in the crowd" can be beneficial to new and up and coming actors by providing valuable on-set experience, exposure to more experienced actors and an introduction to veteran directors and producers. Even actors are filmmakers and every day on set should be treated as a lesson in the art of filmmaking. There is much to be learned when you are just starting out.

ACTRESS - Courtney Rose - OTS ID: 20985; /Copyright: Mark Matthews The Loft OTS ID: 20335;
Credits: H/M Kendall Thompson OTS ID: 25858

My daughter Courtney Rose has learned this lesson. On one occasion, Courtney was cast as an extra in an industrial film called Battlemind: Jr Leader, produced by AMEDD. It was shot at Fort Hood, in Killeen, Texas. Once on set, Courtney did what she was told and had a good attitude, it was noticed. During the course of three days on set, the director began by featuring her in some scenes, then later upgrading her to a small supporting role. Although fifteen or so child extras were available, Courtney’s positive attitude and focus was obvious and she was rewarded for it. Another case in point was when Courtney auditioned for independent film: Blood and Destiny. The audition breakdown was for child extras. I brought Courtney down to audition. After Courtney performed her monologue, writer/director, Don Okolo called her over. He told her that he liked her confidence and was impressed with her acting capabilities. He said that he was not casting her as an extra but writing in her into the script with a supporting role. Sure enough, Courtney got her supporting role and better pay, as well. At another time, Courtney auditioned for a small supporting role in a short indie film called Selfish. We were notified that she was cast, but filming was being put off a few months while they recast the lead. About a month later, I got an email from director Les Stubblefield. He had liked Courtney so much he wrote a short film called Chloe Dysfunctional. He asked to cast her as title character, Chloe. So when I see a breakdown for extras or featured extras, I take the chance. Being seen as a new talent can opens doors; it has worked out very well for Courtney.

ACTRESS - Courtney Rose - OTS ID: 20985; /Copyright: Mark Matthews The Loft OTS ID: 20335;
Credits: H/M Kendall Thompson OTS ID: 25858

My message to new actors, up-and-coming actors, and moms of child actors is GO TO THE AUDITION. Receiving "meals, copy of the film and credit" are only minor benefits. The biggest incentive should be practicing your craft in a professional setting. Whether you are asked to do a cold read or perform your monologue for fresh faces, one good day could lead to so much more.

In the near future, I will join veteran actor, director and teacher DEKE ANDERSON in co-hosting a seminar on this subject for new actors and parents of child actors.

About the writer:

Josie Kline is a hard-working mom and acting manager for her daughter. She studied theater and broadcast in New York at Long Island University, and graduated with a BFA in Broadcast. In addition to her managing duties, she acts in film and commercial projects in the Houston area.