ABSTRACT
I refer to those multi-skilled actors who, while primarily performers, have several other Industry-related strings to their bow. It could be directing, choreography or musical direction, which, while all great skills that keep the pennies rolling in when acting work is lean, are better not mentioned at auditions. I know many people who have been treated sniffily by directors who are fearful that the person they are interviewing might be better than they are, or else try to take over at rehearsals, usurp them or give notes to their fellow cast members. This may not be the case, as far as you would be concerned, but avoid mentioning the subject to be on the safe side – even keeping non-acting skills and credits firmly off your acting CV. If, however, it is brought up by someone else, do your best to brush it off, by saying something like ‘Yes, I direct, but today I am being seen as an actor, which is my primary profession/first love, and I know how to separate the two.’
