Ah, February. The month where love surrounds us. February is the perfect time to strengthen your passion for your craft and foster relationships within the industry.
Even in today’s digital world, people still enjoy receiving handwritten notes and cards. As a creative person, this is the time to appreciate the people who have supported you in the past and those who may give you opportunities in the future.
Advice & Inspiration
1. Send Out Handwritten Cards: While this may seem outdated and old school, it will help you stand out against the myriads of other actors. Grab your list of casting directors, agents, managers, mentors and colleagues, along with small blank cards, and write each a personal note. Keep in mind that some people who stand out to you may not remember you, so you can gently remind them with a line about how you met or which show they cast you in. TIP: Decorate the envelope with stickers or crayons and markers.
2. Celebrate Your Wins: You worked hard. You deserve a little self-love. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to enjoy a reward. Treat yourself to a movie, book or something as wonderful as a nature walk or home-cooked meal.
3. Create Content: Take advantage of February’s cozy vibe to build a YouTube channel and make TikTok videos. Some ideas include dancing, comedy sketches, heartwarming pet videos, music and pranks. You’ll never be able to say you’re bored and you may find that creating your own content is addictive.
4. Take Online Classes: Learning is timeless. Head over to the learning platform Udemy to take some free classes. There’s also a paid version if you find value and want more information. If you’re super bold and have an area of expertise, you can apply to be a course instructor!
5. Reconnect with Your “Why:” Why’d you become an actor? Revisit your goals and draw inspiration for your next steps. Journaling is not only therapeutic but it can reduce stress and anxiety.
6. DIY and Life Hacks: Did you know that fixing things around the house is a skill you can use in your career? In doing so, you’re on your way to learning how to build a set or create memorable costumes. Plus, being handy can make you stand out on set when unexpected challenges arise.
7. Attend Celebrity Appearances: Go to science fiction and horror conventions to meet popular actors (mind you, it may cost you $20+ to request a photo or autograph). Find out which public events legendary sports figures will attend—learn from them. See how they dress, how they act toward fans, and if they do anything special that stands out. One day, you may be the celebrity, so you’ll have a heads-up on how to be involved in fan engagements. TIP: If you happen to be near Somerset County, NJ on August 6, New York Yankees & Mets Legend Darryl Strawberry will be at the Somerset Patriots baseball game at the TD Bank Ballpark.
8. Watch and Learn: Pull up a couch and watch award-nominated films and shows. Bring a “dream” notepad with you so you can analyze the performances. Be aware of the actors’ delivery, movements and how they connect with the audience. See what resonates with you and take it to the next level.
9. Leave Your Comfort Zone: Now, this is where the magic happens. Growth comes from risk. Whether it’s trying a new genre, auditioning for an unconventional role, or sharing a vulnerable performance, challenging yourself to embrace the unknown often leads to your most powerful work. Greatness thrives on the edge of discomfort. If this doesn’t give you the chills, then nothing will.
10. Perfect a New Accent: A new accent could mean reducing your current accent OR taking on a new accent or dialect. Either way, working with accents can open up opportunities for more diverse roles. With the advancements in technology, you no longer have to visit an accent coach in person… many now offer sessions via Zoom. Esther Caporale, located in Beverly Hills, CA, is a Dialect coach, specializing in non-native English-speaking actors. Caporale has an extensive background in feature film and TV production.
11. Revisit Your Audition Wardrobe: We can all use an overhaul when it comes to clothing. Auditioning in the same outfits over and over could become mundane. Fresh characters should have a fresh look! Don’t know what to wear? A quick trip to the mall or a search for online dress trends will have your back. Best of all, see what the actors on TV are wearing.
12. Social Media Spotlight: This month’s social media spotlight goes to Anjelah Johnson-Reyes, a comedian and actress who is still touring after 18 years. Remember how learning accents was discussed above in #10? Watch this clip for a perfect example of how accents can enhance your performance. Johnson-Reyes is a great reminder that you can have a long-lasting career if you put your heart into it.
What to Watch
13. Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story (documentary). If you missed it in theaters, CNN will air it on Feb 2. Actor Christopher Reeve rose to stardom when he landed the role of Superman in the 1970s. When a horse-riding accident left him paralyzed in 1995, Reeve spent the rest of his life searching for a cure for spinal cord injuries.
14. Becoming Led Zeppelin (documentary). Exclusively in IMAX on February 7 and in theaters everywhere on February 14. Explores the origins of this iconic group and their meteoric rise in just one year against all the odds. Interviews, performances and never-before-seen footage provide insight into the origins of this band.
15. Extracted (survival series) premiers on FOX on February 10. It’s a high-stakes drama centered around a team of extraction specialists rescuing individuals from perilous situations worldwide. 12 untrained individuals are dropped into the wilderness, while their families back at headquarters have the power to pull them out of the competition at any time. How far would your family go for a chance to win $250,000?
16. The Gorge (sci-fi horror action) drops on Apple TV+ on Valentine’s Day, February 14. Two highly-trained operatives are appointed to posts in guard towers on opposite sides of a vast and highly classified gorge, protecting the world from a mysterious evil that lurks within. They work together to keep the secret in the gorge. Starring Miles Teller, Anna Taylor-Joy and Sigourney Weaver.
17. Captain America: Brave New World (Action/Sci-fi) hits theaters on February 14. The latest installment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe continues the adventures of the new Captain America. Starring Harrison Ford, Anthony Mackie and Seth Rollins.
18. Win or Lose (animated series) airs February 19 on Disney+. An animated series following a co-ed middle school softball team, with each episode highlighting the perspective of a different character.
19. Zero Day (political thriller) premiers on Netflix on February 20. Starring Robert De Niro and Angela Bassett, it focuses on the aftermath of a devastating cyberattack and the ensuing investigation.
20. The Unbreakable Boy (drama) will be in select theaters on February 21. A heartwarming story about a boy with a rare brittle bone disease and autism, whose positive outlook transforms the lives of those around him.
Wellness Activities
21. Find a Cuddle Buddy: Valentine’s Day is perfect for cuddling in front of the TV and/or fireplace. A cuddle buddy doesn’t have to be human; pets can provide comfort and warmth. And cuddling with stuffed animals isn’t just for kids! There’s a special kind of nostalgia that comes with hugging a plush toy.
22. Cardio Exercise: Running, dancing, or cycling helps build stamina for long rehearsals. You don’t need to belong to a gym to build up to a healthy workout. Check out this space-saving Fitness Stepper.
23. Hydration Challenge: Drink enough water daily to keep your voice and skin healthy. How much water should you drink each day? Visit the Weight-Based Water Intake site.
24. Healthy Meal Prep: Fuel your body with nutrient-rich foods to sustain yourself. You’ll need every ounce of energy and focus to stay alert for multiple auditions and classes per day!
25. Massage or Foam Rolling: Relieve muscle tension, especially after long performances. Foam rollers come in different colors!
26. Laugh More: We could all use more laughter in our lives. Hang out with people who uplift you. Reciprocate by spreading positivity, sharing joy, and being a source of encouragement for others. A good laugh can make even the toughest days feel lighter!
Live and Virtual Events
27. Benefit and Auction for LA Wildfire Relief: February 5 at the Hollywood Palladium in California. A benefit concert featuring artists Hayley Williams, Finneas, Lucy Dacus and more, with proceeds supporting local organizations aiding wildfire relief efforts.
28. SCAD TVfest 2025: February 5-7 in Atlanta, GA. An annual festival celebrating television, streaming, and digital media, featuring panels, screenings, and networking opportunities with industry professionals. This year’s honorees include Hiroyuki Sanada, Laverne Cox and Noah Centineo. Sophie Skelton, Uzo Aduba, Walker Scobell and Cast of ‘St. Denis Medical’.
Bonus Events
29. Actors Pro Expo 2025: February 22. A comprehensive event offering seminars, workshops, performance opportunities and networking for actors. Note: While this event is in London, it may offer virtual components or be of interest to those willing to travel.
30. Free New York City Acting Class: RSVP required. Class with Louis Stancil. February 23 from 12 PM – 3 PM at the Ripley Grier Studios, New York, NY. A complimentary acting class offering participants a chance to hone their craft in a professional setting.
31. Denver Center for the Performing Arts Events: A variety of performances and workshops throughout the month in Colorado, including Mean Girls and Back to the Future: The Musical.
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