In this episode, I interview Melody Peng (@mpeng11), an actress in Los Angeles who has appeared on a variety of network and cable shows.
After moving to LA for a corporate job several years ago, Melody decided to go all in on acting and continues to work towards her big break. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to move to Los Angeles and become a “struggling actor,” this is the episode for you!
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During our chat, we discuss;
- How Melody decided to make the full-time leap to acting after moving to LA for a corporate job.
- Why a business degree has been helpful in pursuing an acting career.
- The unique experiences of working actors, including a chemistry audition.
- How she discovered her love of acting after having a creative childhood in other arts.
- Why she realized that she wasn’t destined to be a writer.
- Why feedback about writing feels more personal than feedback around acting.
- Why the decision to pursue acting full-time came in stages for Melody.
- Melody’s love for performing on camera, versus performing on stage.
- How actors in LA can be exceptionally talented, yet still struggle to get jobs.
- The impact auditions have on Melody’s personal life and friendships.
- How auditions in LA follow a seasonal cadence, and why it matters to actors.
- Why Melody made a demo reel (called “This is not a demo reel”) with her iPhone, and how it led to representation.
- Why Melody wrote a television pilot at the recommendation of her agent.
- Why it’s so important for actors to consider their attitude and behavior on set.
- Why who you know is important in the entertainment industry, just like everywhere else.
- Melody’s definition of creative success.
- Why creatives should who are starting out should compare themselves to the early days of Apple computers.
In addition to Twitter, you can find examples of Melody’s work on her website, IMDB, and follow her on Instagram.