Heard in Philadelphia

What have you done during the pandemic to hone your craft or broaden your skills?

“Navigating the world of Zoom, I've done a couple of play readings and tried out characters that were out of my comfort zone. With support from a playwright, he gave me the confidence to handle new things. I also filmed a music video for The Actors Fund fundraiser that happened last year." — Meagan Hill

“I've been diving deeper into audiobooks and podcasting. I've got six audiobooks available on Audible, and I'm presently recording my seventh. My podcast, Creative Care Unit has 22 episodes, most of them interviews with creative friends of mine, the rest talking about dealing with the challenges of being an older creative. My skills at recording, editing and mastering have gotten pretty good, considering all of the hours I've put in with the books, and I hope to translate that into work doing voiceovers.” — Mike Russo

“I have found the SAG-AFTRA Foundation to be extremely valuable. The online workshops, conversations and programs are first rate all the way. Screenwriting, always! Perfect way to create and develop characters. It also stretches your imagination without having to leave your house." — Rick Collum

“While many have decided to go into other career paths during the pandemic, I used this time to reach out to my networks to see how I can stay in the film/TV industry. While work has been slow, I used this time to work as a Theatrical Teamster in Philadelphia and New York, where I had the opportunities to drive a starcar as well as passenger van.  While I love doing acting, I felt if I did not have this opportunity to stay in the film/TV industry, I am not sure how I would have survived these times. I have also been using my time to get involved with the SAG-AFTRA Philadelphia Local as much as I can by joining two committees and being a convention delegate. I urge everyone to get involved in any future discussions, as you will learn a lot and maybe you could bring new ideas to the table.” — Kirk Kelly

“As broadcasters, we learned that we could adapt our jobs to work from home. We need to get back to work after this to have an office together, but we are able to transition without missing a beat.” — Sam Clover

“I took this time to make the jump to joining SAG-AFTRA.” — Tracy Armbruster Flynn

“The pandemic certainly threw a wrench into my groove, but like anyone else, I had to adapt and figure out how to be creative while still adhering to the new normal. The first thing I did was focus on creating more online content and figuring out the best use for my camera equipment. I set up a small space to record video in my home and learned how to navigate social media much better. Eventually, I became somewhat of an expert in these skills and am now able to help others, which is amazing!” — Whitney Ullman 

“I have spent a lot of time networking with casting directors. The more they know your name and see your work, the better your career will be. I've been broadening my skills by acquiring new hobbies. A more rounded person is a better performer and has better success.” — Joe Zarriello