Being in Chicago [at the beginning of my career], I noticed that a lot more established actors ... would find two or three things they were good at, and if [the work opportunities] were small in one area, they focused on their other work. Each of them would tell me, ‘You can make a good living here; you just have to be versatile.’
James Vincent Meredith
Actor
The SAG-AFTRA President’s Task Force on Education, Outreach & Engagement hosted Performers and Industry Versatility panel on Feb. 11. The panel included members and talent professionals based in the Chicago area, including actors James Vincent Meredith (Fargo, Chicago Med) and Courtney Rioux (Chicago Med), casting directors Marisa Ross and Christal Karge of Marisa Ross Casting, and talent agent Sam Samuelson of Stewart Talent Agency. SAG-AFTRA Chicago Local President Charles Andrew Gardner moderated.
Chicago is considered an ideal market for opportunities in theatrical, commercial, television and independent film work, and many local performers have found success working on long-running productions. Throughout the panel, each speaker discussed how the area allows performers to work on diverse projects and fully utilize their skills in different areas of the industry. Meredith, Rioux and Gardner also said that working within a close-knit performing arts community and having a good work-life balance enhances their professional work.
“Chicago allows people to be whole people, to have families and lives. And when you’re fulfilled in all areas of your life, you can bring that perspective to your characters,” said Rioux.
To watch the full panel, scroll below. To watch previous PTEOE panels or for more content, visit sagaftra.org/video.
The views expressed by the guests are their own and not that of SAG-AFTRA. Any mention of products or services does not imply SAG-AFTRA’s endorsement.
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