Stage 32, I Presume?

Recently, a friend sent me a link to a new social networking site for anyone looking to get into the motion picture industry. Stage 32 is billed as “The premiere social network for people working in or with a desire to work in film, television, or theater.” It seems that every organization that wants to grow quickly builds itself through social networking sites (Facebook, Twitter, et al). She (my friend) asked me what my opinion was on it, so I decided to take a look at this new group to see what they’re all about.

When I got to the site, I was asked to create a free profile, which included options for posting a headshot (a photo of yourself that’s a standard for all actors in Hollywood), physical stats, a resume, an IMDb page (if you have one) and a few other items. The site itself mimics the page design of Facebook, so there’s a familiarity built into it.

I went ahead and created a profile to get the ball rolling. After all, you know the old saying: nothing ventured, nothing gained. In the first 24 hours I received three friend requests, which I find interesting as I posted very little information about myself.

The good news is almost everyone wanting to break into entertainment is passionate about what they’re doing, whether it be film making, producing, directing or acting so interacting with other registered members has been easy. I did surf through some of the profiles and it appears a few individuals have worked extensively in entertainment (that being said, the entertainment industry has the ability to get people to pepper their resumes – even just a little bit – with words that may make them appear to be a little more experienced than they really are, which is fine as I understand it’s a business tactic).

At this point I don’t know if the site is a platform that’s worth spending time on, as I don’t have a history with the organization to give a good recommendation – only time will tell what my experience with Stage 32 will be. However, there are some features the site advertises that I think can be a benefit to members:

• Network with fellow actors, directors, producers, screenwriters and other industry professionals.
• Share your portfolio and work experience.
• Find work in your profession.
• Stage 32 supports all independent filmmakers.

Their website address is www.stage32.com. You can also find them on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/Stage32?sk=info. If anyone is interested in connecting with people breaking into show business this may be a good place to begin. At the end of the day nothing beats meeting people face to face (Hollywood is built on relationships…or to say it in another way: it’s not what you know it’s who you know). That being said, life is too short to play it safe so I encourage everyone (in all professions and walks of life) to live adventurously and take chances. What has a person got to lose by signing up to see what happens? Sometimes getting the brass ring may be as easy as sitting on a different horse of the carousel.

You can follow David Derks on Twitter at @dderks