They do exist—those“dream jobs.” For many, being an actor is one of them. You stand in front of the camera for a few minutes, maybe have to shed a few tears—and just like that, you’ve got a five-figure sum in your bank account. Unfortunately, the reality is quite different. There’s grueling training, intense competitive pressure, and if you’re unlucky, your scene might be shortened or even cut entirely.
Ana Sofia Cisneros, a young up-and-coming actress, talked about her daily life. The 24-year-old lives in a small suburb of Mexico City called Metepec.
Ms. Cisneros, there are many myths surrounding the acting profession. Do you actually need any special training to be allowed in front of the camera?
Yes, starting in 2019, I attended AMDA (American Musical and Dramatic Academy) for four years. I was in New York at first and then moved to Los Angeles. There, I earned a Bachelor of Performing Arts.
That's impressive. So did you focus your career choices solely on acting?
The term “artist” probably fits me better. I’m an actress, but I’m also a singer, a dancer, a songwriter, and I work as a model, a makeup artist, and a guitarist.
That's a very diverse repertoire. How does one find work in the entertainment industry? Are there specific platforms where performers are sought out?
I find a lot of casting calls on platforms like Instagram. But also through friends in the industry. In Los Angeles, I came across a group called “Latinas Acting Up”; we communicate via group chat. You should follow the artists you’d like to work with. For example, I follow Cirque du Soleil, Imagine Dragons, and Coldplay, since I want to make it big in the world of concerts and shows. In Mexico, many artists follow one of the leading production companies for theater and concerts called Ocesa. They also hold open auditions from time to time. That’s where connections really help. “I know you’re good at what you do, so I’ll put you in touch with producers, managers, and directors”—so always be friendly!
So what happens next when you know that your dream role is within reach?
Since the pandemic, applicants are expected to submit a short introductory video and close-up photos. If you make it to the shortlist, you go in person. You sit in a waiting room. The staff give you a number, and then you usually warm up. [Dancers warm up their muscles, and singers do exercises for their vocal cords]. Then they take you into a room and, if you’re a dancer, teach you a choreographed routine. It lasts anywhere from a few seconds to a minute. Afterward, everyone present is divided into smaller groups (usually five people). The group then performs the routine in front of the casting director. Singers usually perform solo. Afterward, the selected performers are announced by their numbers. But even if you’ve technically been eliminated, you stay there. Because the next time your number is called, they’ll give you a different choreography—or sometimes, if you’re a dancer, they’ll ask you to sing as well. If you advance, they’ll try to find out what kind of person you are through an interview —whether you’d be a good fit for the ensemble. If you do well and pass, you’ll sign the contract afterward.
That sounds like quite a lot of work. Since you’ve already performed in a few plays, it would be interesting to hear what you see as the pros and cons of being an artist.
Let's start with the advantages. An author has created a character, and I love transforming myself into that person. I do it my own way, just as Elaine Petricoff and Jason Chaet, my acting teachers in New York, taught me.
The downsides are the job search, the vulnerability, and the constant criticism. When will you get a real job? When will you earn enough money? It’s the constant auditions and the frustration of being rejected that really get to you. Last year, between August and November, I auditioned for six or seven projects. I only got one callback, where I was told I was too young—even though the character was only about 10 years older than me. They also tell you not to compare yourself to others, but that’s really hard. Based on my experiences, I can really relate to Emma Stone’s character in *La La Land* [the Oscar-winning musical].
Constant criticism and no steady income—I imagine that must be really wearing. Is there a Plan B?
I’m 24 now and currently work mostly as a makeup artist. Last week, I did the makeup for a music video for a band that’s just starting out. They’re called Fortune and consist of four guys. That was a lot of fun. So that’s my Plan B for now. It’s how I make money. For one of my latest projects, I only got 700 pesos—that’s about 55 euros. Then the producer even hinted that I should be grateful: “Don’t bite the hand that feeds you.” [rolls her eyes]
As I said at the beginning, a career in the spotlight is a dream for many people. What are some of the false expectations many people have when it comes to show business?
Most people want fame. But going into this industry just for that reason—and for recognition—is the wrong approach. That’s not what it’s about. You don’t just like it—you love it and want to live it to the fullest. But don’t force yourself to do things you don’t want to do. For example, I don’t like being naked in front of the camera. That’s what body doubles are for. You work your way up to the top slowly but steadily. As for the issueof “casting couch”(sexual assault): Fortunately, I’ve never been sexually abused in my industry. But I know friends to whom that has happened. And that’s still a huge taboo in the industry. Mental health is also an important issue. Money doesn’t make you happy. There’s a lot of depression in show business. One of my tattoos helps me a lot with that: It symbolizes that I am always myself and always will be.
If you don't let the negative aspects deter you, what qualities should you definitely have in order to survive in show business?
You should bring everything you're good at to the table. Whatever you want to do, just do it. Be brave and don't be afraid to show off your skills. Don't be shy—put yourself out there! Fortunately, TikTok and other social media platforms are now being moderated more effectively. I haven't been getting as much hate on those platforms lately. Instagram has already blocked or flagged those negative comments.
I'd love to hear about your best and worst experiences as an actress!
My worst experience: I was also in a production called BEEHIVE. And the director was terrible. She had no idea what she was doing. I had my costumes ready, and she said, “You need a whole new wardrobe for work.” I grabbed my suitcase and walked out of rehearsal. When I came back, she said she was going to give my role to my understudy. Fortunately, the rehearsals had been recorded. After I spoke to the department head, I got my role back.
My best role was in *The Addams Family* in 2021. I got to play Morticia Addams. I was 21 and had a lot of fun—it was my first leading role. We all got along really well. That was one of my best roles. Whenever I’m feeling down, I always watch the recording. It cheers me up because it makes me realize: I did that.
What advice would you give to anyone who wants to break into show business?
Don't be afraid to speak up if something isn't right. If someone has wronged you, address it. That's the only way to resolve issues and clear up misunderstandings. Communication is everything. Also, mental health shouldn’t be neglected. I’d like to quote Dan Reynolds here [lead singer of the American band Imagine Dragons and advocate for psychotherapy]: “Go to therapy, and let someone guide you on your journey.” I also have my pets, Harry and Lupin, who are my emotional support animals. Alternatively, you can use a stuffed animal like a teddy bear or a pillow; that helps a lot. Talk to people—your friends, your family. You’re not alone. Do the things you love because you love them. Without pressure. You’re not obligated to do anything.
So don't be too hard on yourself, practice self-love and respect, and seek help when you need it. That's great advice. Thank you so much for your time and for giving us a little glimpse into the entertainment industry!
Best of luck in the future!
If you'd like to see more from Ms. Cisneros, feel free to follow her on Instagram. Her username is: ana.sofia.cm
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Interview from June 2025 – Zoom Video Chat
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