The Dogtor's Advice

There He Is

Exhausted, I collapsed in the only vacant seat on my fifth train transfer of the day. Taking refuge in musings of lunch concoctions, I comforted myself with the thought of the Saturday market at journey's end. I've done it all, from promo shifts to dog walks to dodgeball sessions; I was pooped.

And then I saw him. Boarding with his head held high (for a doggy) and his tongue down low (as a doggy ought), he captured my eye and my spirits until I alighted. Another passenger patted and pet him as I sat, wondering whether he'd catch my eye, whether he'd smell the plethora of doggy scents that must litter my apparel by now.

Becoming a dog walker was another step on my way towards sane living as an actor. I was fed up with hospitality jobs, undergoing the constant pressure to serve food straight off the oven, to constantly bear a smile while answering to petty requests, up-selling every situation, and subtly flirting for tips. As much as I enjoyed the free food and various characters, it was emotionally exhausting and physically draining. I was ready to move on.

Luckily for me, I enjoyed dogs and the outdoors, so being a dog walker seemed a rational step forward. It would keep me trim, take up a handful of hours a day, and it could all be done in my neck of the woods. Little did I know this pleasant job opportunity would contribute to my overabundance of affection for all things canine. I even am okay with cats by now (as I've cat-sat for a few too).

To be honest, I've always been invested in finding my "non-acting job". I've considered getting accreditation as a hairstylist (I was the bun-maker at Mrs. Haddad's studio) or masseuse (I will make you squeal in pain),  but this dog walking job was a clear and easy step towards something enjoyable, stressless, and fulfilling.

Yes, I've just stated that dog walking is a fulfilling job. No, I'm not changing the world, but I'm engaging with different personality types and getting to know what each dog needs. Doggies make me more compassionate. And to quote Legally Blonde "Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy! Happy people just don't shoot their husbands. They just don't."

Note to any future husband(s): give me a doggy, and I won't kill you.

Any Auditions?

I've been asked this a few times since my return from the U.S., which has been somewhat expected and startling at the same time. There are certain things which I ought to address first, like getting back into some form of a routine and getting over jet-lag. To be honest, I know I have to work doubly hard for auditions regardless of my agent's efforts; it's not quite the fairest of situations, but actors themselves need bite and bark. We will not progress if we do not back ourselves to the highest extent, seeking out directors and casting directors, shows to watch and people to meet. I am still getting accustomed to "the art of making art" (Sunday in the Park with George), but I am contended to think that acting is a lifelong pursuit. To win the game, you must stay in the game; very few win the actor lottery in the first few years, and even more drop out within those years. The longer I play, the better I'll be, and the better my chances become.

I can't wait until I'm in my late thirties and have significantly less competition for my age group. Bring it on, older age.

Any Real News, Sally?

Okay, so I guess dog walking and lack of auditions aren't a very celebratory way to embark on my final chapter in London. It's bizarre to think I've now got three months left, three that should be epic and eventful, full of travel stories and rare experiences. I can't say I plan to do anything of the sort. I can say that Rick brought me Ben's Cookies yesterday, which we split over two types of tea, and that I nearly cried watching the final episode of Friends for the first time. It's all very exciting. 

Oh Wait.

I'm going to be performing in a concert on November 6th. Mark your calendars, folks!

I've also begun writing for Ginger Wig and the Strolling Man, a theatre review site set up here in the United Kingdom. Lucky me gets to write about what I see without worrying that my lowly opinion will get back to producers/directors/actors/casting directors - a situation that could forfeit my ability to be hired in the future. Check it out here. Moreover, I may continue writing for them as The (one and only) U.S. ambassador, and to that I say, "Yes, please."