“Silence Isn’t Always Golden”

It’s never a good sign when the phone doesn’t ring. I was on “hold” to be the face of a new potato chip campaign. I was set to work Monday. Friday afternoon…no call. No email. I had to silently surrender. I wouldn’t be crunching and chewing my way to a financial fortune. In fact I couldn’t make any noise. My agent didn’t want to hear me whine. I couldn’t write a letter, get on TV or speak to the President of the chip company. I had to sit with it. Lesson #1 in Hollywood: They only call when they say yes. If it’s a no, you get the silent treatment. And you’re left on your on to cope (unless you have a good shrink). You’d think it would get easier after so many years. But it doesn’t. The casting process is cruel. Period.

I’ve decided to try and be a contender for an Ovation Award.

I may even join Equity. I’m getting serious. We’ve set a preliminary date in April to mount the second two acts of my show. It helps to have a goal. There’s no structure when you’re an Actress. It’s all about self-discipline. No boss looking over your shoulder, no time clock, no performance reports. It’s all YOU. It’s a self-made career. You must be rigorous.

I really want some change in my life. I see my show as an opportunity to travel the world and entertain. I envision myself meeting people from all walks of life. Making them laugh, sharing my story, and connecting. Becoming an Ambassador for all struggling Actresses in Hollywood. An Ambassador of HOPE.

That said, it’s time to run-off to my retail day job. I meet a lot of people there. I even met someone from HBO who is coming to my show next week. How cool is that? You never know whom you’re selling underwear to…so put on the smile and be at your best. We’re living in the land of possibilities!

Written by Rachel Bailit