Supporting Actors

How do you afford to be an actor without losing your mind?

In this episode of Supporting Actors, Sean and Patrick dive deep into the reality of "survival jobs." With 97% of the union often looking for work, the "day job" isn't just a backup plan—it's the engine that sustains your art. We discuss how to choose a job that offers flexibility without the burnout, and why being "good" at your survival job might actually make you a better performer.

In this episode, we cover: • Industry News: The impact of Tracker moving to LA, new SAG-AFTRA contract details regarding AI, and a major shift in Oscar eligibility rules. • The "War of Attrition": Why staying in the game is often about who can last the longest, not just who is the most talented. • Choosing Your Side Hustle: Comparing the pros and cons of the service industry, corporate work, personal training, and private tutoring. • The Transparency Debate: When (and how) to be upfront with your employer about your acting commitments. • The Post-Show Blues: Navigating the psychological challenge of "clocking back in" after a great performance or a closing night.

Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro & LA Production News: CBS's Tracker 01:04 - SAG-AFTRA Contract Updates & AI Protections 01:40 - New Oscar Rules: Human-Authored vs. AI Work 05:30 - The 97% Reality: Why We Need Day Jobs 11:50 - Flexibility vs. Stability: Finding the Right Balance 18:10 - Private Tutoring & Corporate Creative Work 22:10 - Managing Bosses: To be "The Actor" or keep it secret? 36:30 - When to say "No" to an acting gig for your stability 41:30 - Mourning the "Death" of a Career: Dealing with Post-Show Blues 54:00 - Ad Libs: Travel plans and recovering lost audio files

Connect with us:

• Subscribe for more deep dives into the craft and business of acting. • Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen! • Comment below: What is the best (or worst) day job you've had as an actor?

Send us a questions or a longer comment by sending an email to [email protected]

How do you find the line between deep preparation and total spontaneity?

In this episode of Supporting Actors, Patrick and Sean break down the most influential acting theories in history and how they apply to the modern actor. From the roots of Stanislavski to contemporary physical theater, we discuss how to build a reliable technique that doesn't get in the way of a "live" performance.

In this episode, we cover:

• The Classics: The evolution of Stanislavski's system into the philosophies of Stella Adler, Uta Hagen, Sanford Meisner, and Lee Strasberg.
• Modern Approaches: Exploring Lucid Body, Viewpoints, and Clown work.
• The Audition Room: How to generate authentic, grounded performances for self-tapes without "over-cooking" the material.
• The Actor's Balance: Finding the sweet spot between rigorous prep and being present in the moment.

Timestamps:

[00:00] Intro & Industry News.

[05:45] Breaking down the Stanislavski System.

[15:20] Meisner vs. Strasberg: The Great Debate.

[28:10] Using Lucid Body and Viewpoints in rehearsal.

[42:35] Why your self-tapes might feel "stale" (and how to fix it).

[55:00] Wrap-up & Ad Libs.

Connect with us:

Subscribe for more deep dives into the craft and business of acting. Follow the show on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and leave us a 5-star review. If you prefer video, you can also find us on YouTube.

Ask questions or leave longer comments by emailing us at [email protected].

Leave a comment: Which acting philosophy do you find most helpful in the room?

#ActingTechnique #SupportingActorsPodcast #Meisner #SelfTapeTips #ActingTheory

Sean and Patrick discuss representation in the entertainment industry. They cover topics including how to identify and approach agents and managers, the differences between agents and managers, and best practices for maintaining professional relationships.

The conversation includes insights on when actors might need representation, strategies for cold submissions, and red flags to watch out for in potential representatives. They also touch on current industry challenges, such as the impact of AI on the business and the difficulties facing the film industry in Los Angeles.

In this episode, Patrick and Sean discuss current industry trends, including recent WGA negotiations and their implications for SAG-AFTRA negotiations. They explore the rise of casting apps and platforms targeting actors, discussing both legitimate tools and potential scams targeting inexperienced performers.

The main-topic of the episode focuses on self-tapes, covering technical aspects, preparation strategies, and the challenges of creating authentic performances at home versus in-person auditions. They share personal experiences with self-tape setups, the importance of bringing oneself to the role while maintaining professional distance, and the psychological aspects of auditioning.

The episode concludes with a brief discussion about upcoming personal plans and a mention of Patrick's consideration of a specific audition opportunity.

Want to be part of the conversation? Ask questions or send comments to [email protected].

In this first episode of Supporting Actors, Sean Dube and Patrick Quinlan discuss their backgrounds in acting, the current state of the entertainment industry, and their mission to create a resource for working actors.

They share their personal journeys into acting - Sean's transition from science to theater, and Patrick's early interest in high school plays that led to studying at Loyola University Chicago and later at Steppenwolf. The conversation covers the challenging current landscape of Hollywood, including industry consolidation, reduced production volumes, and the impact of streaming services on residuals and work opportunities.

They outline future episode topics including self-tapes, audition techniques, acting craft, and the business side of acting, planning to release episodes weekly.