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Making it to Hollywood: What Does it Take to Turn the Dream into Reality?

Whether you’re fresh out of drama school or have been pursuing smaller gigs, that coveted “big break” seems like the ticket to fame, fortune, and creative fulfillment. But what does it really take to turn that dream into reality?


Hollywood isn’t just a destination on a map; it’s a sprawling, competitive ecosystem where only a select few rise to the top. Sure, talent is important, but the truth is, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Success in the entertainment industry requires a unique blend of hard work, skill, resilience, and a relentless drive to keep pushing forward despite the odds. Add to that a mountain of paperwork, the right media networking connections, and—let’s be real—a good bit of luck.


The Hard Truth: Talent Isn’t Enough


While it’s easy to assume that Hollywood is a meritocracy where talent shines through, the reality is more complex. You might have the acting chops of a seasoned pro, but without the right strategy, you could find yourself swimming in circles. You’ll need to develop not only your craft but also your business acumen to navigate contracts, casting calls, and industry politics.


The Blueprint to Hollywood Success


One of the key elements that actors often overlook is media networking. Who you know can often be just as important as what you know. People will delve into the art of building relationships within the industry, whether it’s with casting directors, agents, or fellow actors. Making connections in Hollywood is critical because opportunities can pop up at a moment’s notice, and being in the right place at the right time can make all the difference.


Timing Is Everything


Let’s talk timing. Moving to the US and diving headfirst into the Hollywood scene isn’t something you should do on a whim. There are so many factors to consider: Are you at the right stage in your career? Do you have a strong portfolio of work? And, perhaps most importantly, are you prepared for the financial and emotional toll it takes to “make it” in such a competitive environment?


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Demystifying the Paperwork


Hollywood may be glitzy and glamorous on the outside, but behind the scenes, it’s full of administrative hurdles. From securing a visa to navigating green card applications, actors moving to the US face significant legal challenges. You need to know about getting your paperwork in order, with a focus on visas for “people of extraordinary ability”—a daunting but essential step in the process.


The Practical Side of Acting: What Works and What Doesn’t


Beyond the red tape, there’s the practical side of building your career. Agents, managers, headshots, showreels—there’s a lot to juggle. What works? What doesn’t? How do you create a standout self-tape that catches a casting director’s eye?


Ready to Make Your Hollywood Dream a Reality?


Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your existing business, this accessible and highly interactive session by Luke McKenzie is packed with information that can help you achieve your goals. Luke will reveal the secrets of knowing when you’re ready to go, how to get your visa sorted, landing a job, and navigating the complex US entertainment system. Whether you’re developing ideas, working behind the camera, or performing as an actor on the “big screen,” this workshop will offer key strategies to boost your chances.


Meet the Expert: Luke McKenzie


Luke McKenzie is a versatile actor turned writer/director based in Melbourne and Los Angeles. His career spans comedy and drama in theater, film, and TV, with roles in productions such as Wentworth, Home & Away, Conan O’Brien, Wyrmwood, Jack Irish, The Flip Side, Winners & Losers, Underbelly, and currently the Binge premium drama High Country. Luke has written and directed award-winning shorts and a sold-out Off-Broadway play. 


A graduate of AFTRS screenwriting with a 99% High Distinction, he has written for Home & Away, a Marvel Avengers coffee table book, sold an original drama feature to a U.S. company, optioned a comedy feature, and his expanding slate covers factual to feature and TV including an original lifestyle series currently in presales with an international distributor. Luke's approach to filmmaking emphasizes empowering creatives through collaboration, reflecting his dynamic career and adventurous spirit.


Don’t miss out on this chance to gain valuable knowledge and practical advice from a true industry leader. To learn more about Luke McKenzie and his work, check out his IMDB profile.


Making It To Hollywood - 10 Oct 2024, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm AEDT

Format: Online via Zoom

Availability: Unlimited places

Ticket Price: $29/$49/FREE for Members

Audience: Early to mid-career Australian actors based in Australia or the US. Also Australian filmmakers keen to get a greater understanding of how Hollywood works.


The workshop is now open for bookings. Register here.

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