Episode #354
Air Date: February 13, 2025
Prepare For Re-Entry
Returning to acting after a hiatus can feel like standing at the base of a mountain, wondering where to start the climb. Whether you took a break to focus on family, another career, or simply needed time for yourself, re-entering the profession can seem daunting. The good news is that you’re not starting from scratch—you’re building on your previous experience. Here is a step-by-step guide to help make your re-entry manageable and, dare I say, even exciting!
1. Reflect on Your “Why”
Before diving back in, take some time to reconnect with why you want to act again.
What drew you to acting in the first place? Was it the thrill of performing, the storytelling, or the connections with others?
What’s motivating your return now? Whether it’s reigniting a passion or exploring untapped potential, understanding your “why” will ground you and fuel your journey forward.
Think of this as creating your north star—it will guide your decisions and help you stay focused when things feel overwhelming.
2. Start with Self-Assessment
After time away, it’s natural to wonder if your skills are still sharp or if you’ve fallen behind. Here’s the secret: no one expects perfection on day one.
Revisit old work: Watch your past performances or review your portfolio to see how far you’ve come and where you might want to grow.
Identify strengths and areas to refresh: Maybe your improv skills are solid, but you need to brush up on on-camera techniques or monologue work. A little self-awareness can go a long way.
3. Update Your Tools
Your headshot and resume are your calling cards in the industry, so make sure they reflect who you are today.
Headshots: Invest in professional headshots that showcase the roles you’re targeting now. Your look may have evolved, so it’s important that casting directors see the current you.
Resume: Update your credits and remove anything outdated or unrelated. If there’s a gap, don’t stress—focus on the skills and experience you bring to the table.
Demo Reel: If you don’t have recent footage, consider filming new material (even self-tapes) to showcase your talent.
Remember, you’re presenting yourself as you are now—authentic and ready to work.
4. Reconnect with Training
Acting is like a muscle; it gets stronger with use. If you’ve been out of practice, jump back into training to rebuild your confidence and refine your craft.
Take a class: Look for workshops or ongoing classes in areas like scene study, on-camera technique, or voice work. Not only will you sharpen your skills, but you’ll also meet other actors and start rebuilding your network.
Work on your own: Read plays, practice monologues, or film self-tapes at home. Consistent practice will help you regain your rhythm.
Explore something new: Try a class outside your usual wheelhouse—improv, movement, or even voiceover. It’s a great way to expand your range and rediscover the fun in acting.
5. Rebuild Your Network
Your network is a key part of re-entering the industry. Reaching out can feel intimidating, but most people are more supportive than you might expect.
Reconnect with old contacts: Reach out to former teachers, agents, casting directors, or fellow actors. Let them know you’re back and eager to work. A quick email or coffee meeting can open doors.
Join the community: Attend industry events, workshops, or networking nights. Being present in the acting community will help you feel plugged back in.
Use social media: Platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn are powerful tools for sharing your journey. Post updates about your return, training, or projects to stay visible.
Networking is about relationships, not just opportunities—so approach it with authenticity and patience.
6. Start Small and Build Momentum
If jumping straight into auditions feels overwhelming, ease in with smaller steps:
Background work or indie projects: These can help you rebuild confidence and re-familiarize yourself with sets and the industry vibe.
Self-tapes: Practice auditioning at home to shake off the rust and get comfortable in front of the camera again.
Student films or community theater: These opportunities can help you build new credits and create fresh material for your reel.
Every small step counts. Don’t underestimate the power of gradual progress.
7. Adjust Your Expectations
It’s easy to compare your current situation to where you left off or where others are in their careers. But remember, everyone’s journey is unique.
Give yourself grace: If auditions don’t go perfectly at first, that’s okay! Growth comes with time and persistence.
Focus on the process, not the outcome: Enjoy the creative work, and trust that opportunities will come as you stay consistent.
8. Stay Positive and Resilient
Re-entering acting can be emotionally taxing, but maintaining a positive mindset will make the process more manageable.
Celebrate small wins: Landed your first audition back? Nailed a monologue in class? Acknowledge every step forward.
Find support: Surround yourself with people who understand your journey. Actor support groups, friends, or even a coach can help keep you motivated.
Keep perspective: Remind yourself that taking a break wasn’t a setback—it was part of your path. You’re returning with fresh life experience, which can enrich your work as an artist.
9. Set Clear Goals
Having a roadmap will make your return feel intentional and less overwhelming.
Short-term goals: Examples include booking your first audition back, updating your materials, or completing a class.
Long-term goals: Think about the type of roles, projects, or career milestones you want to pursue. Break them into actionable steps.
Goals give you direction and a sense of achievement as you check them off.
10. Embrace the Journey
Most importantly, remember why you fell in love with acting. This isn’t just about booking jobs or building a resume—it’s about storytelling, creativity, and connection.
Enjoy the process: Acting is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.
Trust your instincts: You’ve returned for a reason. Trust that you belong here and have something valuable to offer.
Final Thought:Returning to acting isn’t about “catching up” or proving yourself—it’s about stepping back into the world of creativity on your own terms. By taking deliberate, manageable steps, you can make your re-entry into the profession feel exciting rather than overwhelming. You’ve already shown courage by deciding to come back—now it’s time to let that passion shine. Break a leg!
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