Act As If: Stumbling Through Hollywood with Headshot in Hand

Being a non-famous working actor in Hollywood isn't easy, but it can be fun and funny if you bring your attitude. Based on the popular column in Nowcasting.com's ActorsInk, the essays in Act As If take a (mostly) humorous look at the life of a journeyman actor in Hollywood. "Journeyman," as in "not a star."

Petrea Burchard has worked in TV, commercials, stage, voice-over and film. With humor and honesty, she tells what it takes, and what it doesn't take, to be a working actor in Hollywood. From agents to casting directors, auditions to classes, good parts to lousy ones, Burchard has been there, and her stories of achievements and losses hit home.

"...a must for anyone thinking of taking Hollywood by storm. Petrea points out common pitfalls while throwing in a dash of empowerment. It's your life, your career. Keep your eyes open and be sure to have this book on your nightstand."
— Liz Hanley, theatrical agent, Bicoastal Talent

"Act As If holds great life and work lessons for people in the arts—or out of them. It's worth keeping in your car on the way to auditions, and laughing over with the recognition that what we do in the arts is crazy, improbable, and sometimes discouraging—and that we are among the luckiest people on earth."
— Kat Likkel, writer/producer, "My Name is Earl," "Galavant," "Better off Ted"

"Burchard doesn't dish out the all too typical 'actor advice' pablum but provides insightful, great pieces—whether it's a tribute to what it takes to survive as in 'You Persevere,' some home truths about attitude such as 'Desperation Stinks,' or the greatly moving 'Interesting Lives.' A worthwhile, funny read."
— Jane Macfie, actor, "The Mindy Project, "House of Lies," "Wedding Band"

"All graduating MFA students who want to make a living in 'The Biz' should be handed this book with their diplomas. It's an honest, practical and remarkably uncynical look at the job of being an actor."
— Rick Hall, actor, "Good Luck Charlie, "24," "Curb Your Enthusiasm"

"I felt like I had a friend after reading this, someone who expresses eloquently the striving an actor goes through on their journey. Give it as a gift to yourself, or a fellow actor."
— Fran Montano, Artistic Director, The Actors Workout Studio