#19 Build a Tribe: Create Work

25 November 2020 - 17:57 BY Louw

Build a Tribe: Create Work

One of the most inspiring things I see around me as an actor is when actors (experienced or inexperienced) come together to create work, without funding or the backing of a media network.

I've been lucky enough to have people around me that truly work hard at their crafts; whether it is corporate jobs like sales, marketing or HR or creative work like musicians, actors or writers. I've seen the difference. Those that work harder than the marketing agent or musician or other actors, those are the individuals who not only get more work but maintain a longer career. When I get asked by younger students if they should study acting I always answer: if you want to act and learn practical tools then no, but if you want to build a foundation of theory, some starting tools and a TRIBE, then yes.

You will meet your fellow creators, friends and collaborators. This is where you might find your future production company producer or director or writer. This is so important, BUT if you do not study, where both lazy and hard-working students will surround you, you can intentionally surround yourself with people who take filmmaking seriously. People who are just as passionate as you are. People who won't sit and wait for work but who wants to CREATE work. Your fellow tribe members.

Tool: go onto NovieGuide Instagram, Facebook and "Rehearsal Room" and put yourself out there. DM another actor, writer, producer or director and ask if they want to meet for coffee or would like to exchange emails on some projects you've been working on or concepts you'd like to act in. I can't highlight this enough, a DM, email or comment can be the connection that tips the scale and creates the opportunity you've been waiting for.

When you find a tribe of filmmakers, get a script, start with a short film (can be 3min or even a music video concept), take two days over the weekend, find an epic and free location, act your heart out and put that creative project into the world. Share your projects and connect with more people. You'll attract people who are interested in the same genre, ideas or themes as you are. But build your tribe. Make sure you play your part (no pun intended) and hold each other accountable to keep on creating.

I've shot a few short films on our own budget and it's been some of the best learning experiences I could ask for, sometimes much more than University ever could be. It's practical, you make mistakes, you learn, you take risks, and you do what you love purely out of a passion and drive for this thing called acting.

Those of you that have a script waiting to be shot but needs an extra eye or objective opinion send them through, I will gladly read through and give advice where I can. Let's help each other create world-class films, performances and lift this TRIBE to the next level, competing on the world stage.

"To fulfil a dream, to be allowed to sweat over lonely labour, to be given a chance to create, is the meat and potatoes of life. The money is the gravy." - Bette Davis

How did you find the technique/tool/advice? Did it work for you? What was different this time? Share with the tribe and let's keep on creating beautiful, honest and memorable performances. Let's execute our best selves!

Kind regards,

Edwin and NovieGuide

#19 Build a Tribe: Create Work

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