Today we’d like to introduce you to D’Lytha Myers.
D’Lytha, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I have worked off and on for Casa Manana for the past 15 years. I wore many hats there – actor, teacher, director, etc. – and learned so much about the arts, kids, and business. During that time, I had an agent (Core Talent) and booked a lot of films, commercials, and industrials. Meanwhile, my husband worked for tv/film production companies around the area and gained valuable experience and relationships.
Three years ago, we decided to create our own production company and make a feature film that would impact families in a positive way. We drew upon our previous work experiences from tv/film, children’s theatre, and business and created a fantastic family film. The film is called Aria Appleton and was an official selection for the 2016 Lonestar Film Festival and was nominated for Best Actress and Best Director at the International Christian Film Festival last month (www.ariaappleton.com).
Towards the end of filming, a lot of the families on set asked us to offer acting for the camera classes. There are several options for acting for the camera classes in Dallas, but not in Fort Worth. Families were tired of driving 45 minutes a week for their kids to take acting classes and so we answered their call. We created the Fort Worth Actors Studio, which is located in the heart of Fort Worth, by TCU.
Today, we have two amazing Adult Classes & two Kids Classes, as well as seasonal Masterclasses, Workshops, and Camps.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The road has been pretty smooth because it has been very organic. The students that find us are amazing people. We have hobbyists, professionals, and individuals who are looking to have a little fun and find community. The people who find our acting classes usually stick because of the fun, family-friendly atmosphere. We create a safe environment that is positive, while honing actors’ skills.
Our struggles have been figuring out what works and what doesn’t work, as well as trying to figure out prices that are competitive and affordable. We are a boutique acting program and keep our prices down compared to other teachers. Due to low costs and small classes, there isn’t a lot of room in the budget for marketing. So far, our marketing has been word or mouth and organic SEO.
My husband and I have a lot of experience in front of and behind the camera, but maneuvering the logistics and marketing side of the business is a whole new thing. We know how to teach great classes, but knowing how to “sell” the classes is a whole new ballgame.
Please tell us about Fort Worth Actors Studio.
We specialize in Acting for the Camera classes. What sets us apart, is first and foremost, that we are family-friendly. My husband and I are parents and we know how precious kids are. We do our best to ensure a safe and secure environment for all that come through our doors. Our adults that take classes with us are also treated in the same environment. We try to keep things clean and positive.
Words are very important to us, as well. When we give feedback for scene-work, we try to encourage our students while molding them into better actors. We want to build self-confidence, not harm it.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
If I had to start over, the only thing I would have done differently is start the business sooner. Although it is a challenge to own and operate our own business, it is also so very rewarding. The reward is much greater than the sacrifices.
Pricing:
- Acting for the Camera group classes $132/month
Contact Info:
- Address: 2701 W. Berry St. #202
Fort Worth, TX 76109 - Website: www.fwactors.com
- Phone: 682-334-3927
- Email: dlytha@fwactors.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fwactors/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/FWActors
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/fort-worth-actors-studio-fort-worth
- Other: https://plus.google.com/108655753366647958298
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