They do exist, the "dream jobs". For many, acting is one of them. You stand in front of the camera for a few minutes, maybe have to shed a few tears - and then you have a five-figure sum in your bank account. Unfortunately, the reality is very different. Tough training, extreme competitive pressure and, if you're unlucky, the scene is cut or even edited out.
Ana Sofia Cisneros, a young up-and-coming actress, talked about her everyday life. The 24-year-old lives in a small suburb of Mexico City called Metepec.
Ms. Cisneros, there are many myths about the acting profession. Do you have to have any special training to be allowed in front of the camera?
Yes, I attended the AMDA (= American Musical and Dramatic Academy) for four years from 2019. I was first in New York and then moved to Los Angeles. I did a Bachelor of Performing Arts there.
That's impressive. So did you base your career choice solely on acting?
The term artist is probably more accurate. I'm an actress, but also a singer, dancer, I write songs and also work as a model, make-up artist and guitarist.
That's a wide-ranging repertoire. How do you find work in the performing arts industry? Are there special platforms where performers are sought?
I find a lot of casting calls on platforms like Instagram. But also through friends in the business. In Los Angeles, I came across a group called "Latinas Acting Up" and we communicate via group chat. You should follow the artists you want to work with. For example, I follow Cirque de Soleil, Imagine Dragons and Coldplay because I want to make it big in the concert and show business. In Mexico, many artists follow one of the most important production companies for theater and concerts called Ocesa. There is also always an open audition. This is where relationships help. "I know you work well, so I'll put you in touch with producers, managers and directors" - So always be friendly!
What happens when you know that the dream role is within reach?
Since the pandemic, applicants are expected to submit a short introduction video and close-up photos. If you are then shortlisted, you go there in person. You sit in a waiting room. The people in charge give you a number and then you usually warm up. [Dancers warm up their muscles and singers do exercises for their vocal chords]. Then they take you into a room and teach you choreography as a dancer. It lasts anywhere from a few seconds to a minute. Afterwards, everyone present is divided into smaller groups (usually five people). The choreography is then performed in front of the casting director. Singers usually perform solo. The selected performers are then announced by announcing their numbers. But even if you are actually already out, you stay there. Because at the next call they give you a different choreography or sometimes they ask you to sing as a dancer. If you get through, they try to find out what kind of person you are by interviewing you. Whether you would fit in well with the ensemble. If you do well and pass, you then sign the contract.
The introduction video of Ms. Cisneros.
That sounds pretty complex. Having already acted in a few plays, would it be interesting to know what advantages and disadvantages you see in being an artist?
Let's start with the advantages. An author has written a character and I love to transform myself into that person. I do it in my own way, the way Elaine Petricoff and Jason Chaet, my acting teachers in New York, taught me.
The disadvantages are the job search, the vulnerability and the constant criticism. When do you get a real job? When will you earn enough money? It's the constant auditions and the frustration of being rejected that get to you. Last year, I auditioned for six or seven projects between August and November. I only got one call back, telling me 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 difficult. I can really relate to Emma Stones' character in La La Land [Oscar-winning musical] because of my experiences.
Constant criticism and no secure income - I imagine that's grueling. Is there a plan B?
I'm now 24 and currently working more as a make-up artist. Last week I did the make-up for a music video for a band that's just starting out. Their name is Fortune and they're four guys. That was a lot of fun. So that's my plan B at the moment. That's how I earn money. For one of my last projects I only got 700 pesos, which is about 55 euros. Then the producer hints that I should be grateful: "Don't bite the hand that feeds you." [rolls his eyes]
As I said at the beginning, a career in the limelight is a dream for many people. What false expectations do many people have when it comes to show business?
Most people want fame. But going into this industry just for that and for recognition is wrong. That's not the point. You don't just like it, you love it and want to live it. 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. There are body doubles for that. You work your way up to the top slowly but steadily. As for the issue of "cast couch" (sexual assault): I have fortunately never been sexually abused in my industry. But I know friends who have been. And it's still a big taboo in the industry. Mental health is also an important issue. Money doesn't make you happy. There is a lot of depression in show business. One of my tattoos helps me a lot: It symbolizes that I am and will always be myself.
If you are not put off by the negative aspects, what qualities should you definitely have in order to survive in show business?
You should contribute everything you are good at. Whatever you want to do, do it. Be brave and don't be afraid to show off your skills. Don't be shy and show yourself! Fortunately, TikTok and other social media are now better controlled. I haven't gotten as much hate on the platforms lately. Instagram has already blocked that or reported bad comments.
I would love to hear your best and worst experience as a performer!
My worst: 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 completely new work wardrobe. I grabbed my suitcase and left the rehearsal. When I came back, she said she would give my role to my understudy. Luckily, the rehearsals had been recorded. After contacting the head of the department, I got my part back.
My best play was The Addams Family in 2021, where I got to play Morticia Addams. I was 21 and had a lot of fun, it was my first leading role. We all got on really well. It was one of my best roles. When I'm feeling down, I always look at my recording. It cheers me up because I realize: I've done it.
What advice would you give to anyone who wants to gain a foothold in show business?
Don't be afraid to speak up if something is wrong. If something wrong has been done to you, speak up. It's the only way to clear things up and clear up misunderstandings. Communication is everything. In addition, mental health should not be neglected. I would like to quote Dan Reynolds here, [lead singer of the US band Imagine Dragons and advocate of psychotherapy]: "Go to therapy, and let yourself be guided on your journey". I also have my pets Harry and Lupin, who are my emotional support animals. Alternatively, a soft toy like a teddy bear or a cushion; that helps a lot. Talk to people, to your friends, to your family. You are not alone. Do the things you love because you love them. Without compulsion. You are not obliged to do anything.
So don't be too hard on yourself, have self-love and respect and seek help if you need it. That's great advice. Thank you very much for your time and the little insight into show business!
Good luck for the future!
If you want to see more of 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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