Biz Kid of the Month: Amanda Powers
We thought we’d showcase a Biz Kid near and dear to our hearts–Amanda Powers, one of the hosts on the show! Amanda talked to us about her big break in acting, what she learned, and her goals for the future.How did you get interested in acting?
I love going on stage and being able to portray a different character. Also, when you’re working together as a cast you get really close and that is fun. And, I like having a positive impact on the world.
Did you feel like you accomplished that?
Definitely–when I would babysit, parents would tell me how much their kids learned from the show.
How did you get started acting on Biz Kid$?
I did quite a bit of theater through high school, and that’s wehere I got involved in Biz Kid$. They had an audition in my town. When I got a call back and was one of the 10 kids chosen to be on the show, it was really surreal; so was seeing my face on TV, at first!
What did you learn from the experience?
So many people work together to put the show together and everybody’s contribution counts: the makeup, the hair, the lights, the sound. It’s a lot of work!
Any advice for kids who want to break into the acting field?
It took me a long time before I got an opportunity. I started out just in the choruses of plays with no lines, but my parents kept telling me to keep trying and I’d get an opportunity. Some actors get agents, but I didn’t. The most important thing is to get involved any way you can–theater organizations, school, and audition opportunities. You have to keep putting yourself out there.
Were there specific advantages or disadvantages to being a young person in this field of work?
It was really great that I got to do it professionally at a younger age because it helped me realize that it’s not actually what I want to do! It was a lot of fun, but if I was going to stay in that field I’d like to direct.
What are your plans for the future?
I’m in college now, studying human services with a minor in theater arts. Currently I work as a caregiver for people who have dementia. I’m interested in helping people.
Any other thoughts?
Believe in yourself and never give up!