What's the best way to avoid complete poverty while a struggling actor?

Answer 1

Do not spend frivolusly. Buy cheap, healthy food. (last time I checked, a 5# bag of apples is cheaper than a big mac!)

Save every chance you get. Do not party, do not spend money at the bars or restaurants (pack a lunch!)

Make sure your wardrobe works together so it all can interchange and you look like you're wearing something totally different at least 8 days in a row. You're business demands your "look".

Balance your checkbook and budget carefully and DAILY! I know, no fun! But if you are ever to handle BIG money, you have to know how to handle little money.

I hope you understand "poverty" as I know it. When you're living in a cardboard box and eat once every 3 days and shower in the sink at the park...then you know you've hit the poverty line.

Answer 2

You have to have a flexible day job (or night job). Everyone has their own way of working things out, but roommates to share rent with and coworkers who will switch shifts with you even last minute are essential. Extremely supportive parents are helpful too but not everyone has that luxury. Ultimately you are the only person you can count on so make sure you have everything covered as best you can without anyone else's help. Maybe rent a room instead of an apartment until you know that you can afford it. Ask someone (parents, aunt, etc.) if you can pay to be added to their cell plan (if they live in the area you will be working in) instead of paying on your own and be extra mindful of fullfilling that obligation. It's much cheaper than having your own account. Work at a restaurant and bring home free food... Really try to think of ways to save money on some things, but spend it where it counts.

If you've worked at all and you become unemployed, hit the unemployment line.

Good lucK!

Answer 3

You need to still have another job. I know you will be really busy but if you think about it most auditions will always be during the day, so you could work somewhere at night. Auditions that you have to practice for you should still have time to do so even with work, auditions that you find yourself way too complicated and stressing to practice that much that is a sign that acting isn't right for you. It should come somewhat natural, or at least that the part just isn't for you.

Try to use your acting skills to get a easy job such as tutoring kids in acting skills in or out of schools

Answer 4

get a copy of the book How to Act and Eat at the Same Time.

Obviously a day job with flexibility so you can attend auditions and rehearse and perform on nights and weekends and take a few days off to be in a film, etc. That's why so many actors are waiters.

Answer 5

I have friends who make their living building sets...being a carpenter, or a carpenter's helper. It's not the best money in the world, but if you can work power tools it's ideal. It's in close proximity to the theater because you're right there...and it's usually actor friendly when it comes to the work schedule. Good luck.

Answer 6

I would think by being frugal and holding down a part time job somewhere. Well, at least that's what my common sense says.

Answer 7

they say waiting tables...I would go to a temp agency. you would have the guarantee of a schedule with flexability and more money and maybe a couple of benefits...

Answer 8

Spend what you earn wisely,no matter how little.

Answer 9

"Hi, my name is __________ and I'll be your server this evening. May I start you off with a cocktail?"

Answer 10

mcdonalds!