In her own words… I’m Yolanda Allen originally from Georgia. I have been in New York for a few years. I did not go to school for acting however I have taken some classes here in New York with plans to take many more…there’s always something to learn. I also plan to get training in Video Editing. When I’m not acting I enjoy writing poetry, reading and having fun!

How did you get started?

I have wanted to be an actress but like most people I had to work full-time so I was not able to really focus on it like I wanted to. I got really great headshots in 2008 & focused on Commercial Print Agencies. I met with Print Agents but nothing came of it. January of this year, I was laid off from my job so I started to focus on acting full-time. So I’ve only being doing it for about 7 months. So I’m still getting started lol

What’s been the biggest obstacle you’ve faced as an actress?

Having the finances to pursue this career. It’s not cheap to get started in this industry and if you want to do it full-time you need to have the finances to back you up. Unlike most of my acting friends, I live on my own (which I wouldn’t change for the world) so my personal expenses are very high but I don’t let that stop me from learning my craft. If I can’t afford to take a class, I read a book, or go to a free workshop, or go to a free sample class. I feel a little information is better than no information. I do what I can til I can do better. So don’t let not having money for classes stop you from learning!

How do you maintain your sanity in this crazy, unpredictable business?

I do not hold onto the outcome of any audition/casting/or meeting with Casting Directors/Agents..I go in, do what I can and when it’s over I say…..NEXT! I share information with others in the industry on a regular basis that I feel is helpful and/or inspirational through my blog or social networking sites I use. I don’t have this dog eat dog mentality, I feel that no one can take what is already yours. I give props when they are due…trying not to have that thought…why her and not me? It pops up every now and then but you have to block that out your mind because their path is not your path. REMEMBER THAT!! I am my own cheerleader, giving myself those much needed pep talks to get out there and keep pressing on no matter how many NOs I may receive. I also have a great support system (a lot of people believe in me). And most importantly I know that the best is yet to come!

What’s your dream role? What role were you born to play?

I’m just a baby in the game so I really don’t have a dream role but I can tell you that a role in a film playing alongside Morgan Freeman would be a dream come true!! I love him!! I could definitely see myself being on a hit Prime time TV show.

What/Who inspires you?

God, My Mom, My brother, myself, and Tyler Perry.

What do you do to prepare for an audition/casting?

Well I do what every other actor does I guess. When I get the sides I just ask myself who is my character, who am I talking to, how do I feel about this person, where am I, what do I want, how do I plan to get it…etc. I leave all nerves at home. I look at every audition like it’s a job interview…and lord knows I’ve been on tons of those…so I don’t get nervous. Well I was nervous when I went out for my very first audition & that was because I didn’t know what to expect.

Any tips for other aspiring actors?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions, there are no dumb questions. Make smart moves & the necessary sacrifices. Don’t tell yourself NO before they do….believe in yourself no matter what. Learn as much as you can about the craft & business side of acting. There is no guaranteed way to make it in this business people can tell you what they did that worked for them, you take the information you learn and apply whatever you feel will work for you and discard the rest. Their path is not your path but learning from their experiences can keep you from making some of the same mistakes. There is no such thing as an overnight success only an overnight discovery. It’s up to that person to be prepared to be successful once they have been discovered.

What’s in your actors tool box?

Headshots, postcards, business cards, Actors Access, Nycastings, Casting Networks, Faith, Acting Books, positive attitude and a beautiful smile!

My goal is to….serve a purpose greater than myself through my acting and charity work!

Keep up with Yolanda on her sites: www.yolanda-allen.com www.yolandaallen.blogspot.com