looking to be in movie

Julianne, a lot of what you have stated I do agree with. However, being one of those teenage girls myself, I would like to inform you of my perspective on this issue.

Unlike you have implied of some teenage girls, I have not been influenced at all by those such shows as Australian Idol as I persue my passion of acting, nor do I believe that I can be the 'next big thing'. In fact, I assume that any person who is to simply watch Australian Idol can see for themselves how much perserverance, effort, hardwork, etc. it takes to achieve their dreams. Those contestants, such as Guy and Shannon, have not 'easily' achieved all they have, as it seems you are implying. It is easy to see that even with the added benefit of the national contest providing opportunities for publicity and music contracts arising from the show, it hasnt been presented to them on a platter - they needed the talent, passion, perserverance, etc and to put in the effort and harwork. If this had not been so public and such an opportunity had not been provided, these people would probably not be selling their music as they are today, and would be just as widely known as the guy next door. Therefore, while the show has made this look 'easier', I doubt many girls have been influenced enough to believe that it could happen so 'easily' for them.

It is true that many people (not just teenage girls) want to become popular like other celebrities. I myself can tell you that the thought has passed through my mind. Yet the ultimate, original, greatest and lasting reason that I continue to perservere is my passion and love for acting, which I want to be able to use to the best of my ability and share with others. I dont need fame or fortune. I need not be known by name. It is simply an art that I enjoy and a talent God has blessed me with.

From reading other posts, I can see that there are many teenage hopefuls throughout the country. Some, like the author of this original message of this chain, are obviously misdirected in their thinking. Obviously they cannot simply receive a role in a movie by posting as they do on this board, but they need to take action and gain experience, etc. But instead of discouraging them, why not allow this to be a learning experience and guide them as to the correct approach they should have in their to achieve their aspiration. By letting people know about them here, however, they may be able to find of a production nearby from another person.

In regard to your comments about those who sit around on their bums, expecting it all to come to them, I have a good reason as to why this may be which you need to contemplate before lashing out at them. If you do, you will realise that it isnt surprising that the board gets filled with those requests and complaints. I will explain this from the point of view of being in my situation:

I am currently 16 years old, with little credible acting experience up my sleeve. I have undertaken drama as an elective at school during my high school years of grades 7-10. I regularly take part in dramas for church each week, and I have participated in productions every year with my school. I have lived in Orange, NSW all my life where there is very limited opportunities. Every year there is a local theatre production, but these are mostly musicals requiring the cast to sing, and as this is not my forte, makes it very hard to become involved. This is the extent of opportunities.

The main barriers in my life that prevent me from gaining increased experience, and which I believe is the cause of other teenagers 'sitting on their bums, filling this site', are:
- they do not have the necessary opportunities to gain experience, only are able to participate in such things as listed above
- they do not have the support of parents. This has been a particularly limiting factor in my life. For example, a few years ago I discovered there was to be a local filming of an television advertisement, which I wished to participate in as I fitted the criteria and would give me some more experience in front of the camera. Yet when I tried to discuss it with my parents for their assent, they simply brushed away the idea.
- they can not afford to attend or do not live close to drama schools to gain more experience.
- they have the experience, but are unable to locate an agent in order to gain the opportunity for auditions, etc
- they are unsure how to pursue their dreams
- a feeling of being to old overcomes them, leading to laziness towards achieving the goal. Many people who achieve the opportunity for greater roles are those who were put in drama schools at a very early age, and got roles in commercials, etc
- held back by location. For example, those who live in major cities are more easily able to attend drama schools, have the opportunity for an acting job - commerical or otherwise, get an agent, etc.

While I may have clearly explained my view to you, I hope that you will take the time to consider why it may be that these teenagers are filling these sites, in the hope of gaining a role and persuing their acting career. It may appear lazy, but perhaps it is the greatest hope they have of achiving their dreams.

Rachel