Felicity Jackson has been known in the acting industry for years now thanks to her awesome Surviving Actors convention. This year she also came to the attention of Alan Sugar, becoming one of his apprentices. She gives us the goss on business, acting and her apprentice experience.

1) What was the idea behind Surviving actors?

Surviving Actors was a initially going to be a recruitment fair for actors to find those “in between” jobs. We then added the two other key areas to the event – Develop and Create. We believe that all three areas are important to a successful career!

2) How did you make surviving actors a success?
Surviving Actors was a success from our first event because I made sure that I spoke to as many actors as I could to form an event that would be useful to all those involved. We also gained support from Fourth Wall Magazine who were a huge help with our website and marketing.

3) The last surviving actors was a resounding success, everyone I knew was there, how does that feel?
It was an incredible feeling – the event doubled in size, and the response was phenomenal. It definitely inspired me to carry on running my events and to work on what I have already achieved.

4) What is your background?
I went to Drama School to train as an actress which I enjoyed immensely. After graduating I was fortunate to work in a couple of tours, and also did various “in between jobs” which is where I gained a lot of my contacts that I share with the Surviving Actors visitors. I then came up with the idea to set up my own business, and now that is what I do full time!

5) What is the most important thing you have learned in business?
I’ve learnt that in order to maintain a successful business you must build good relationships with other similar companies who are the same stages – you really can help each other out!

6) What is the most important thing an actor can do to help their career?
I believe that planning for those ” in between ” times is extremely important – finding well paid work that utilises your acting skills. I also believe in taking chances, putting your own work on and not sitting back and waiting for the phone to ring!

7) How was your Apprentice experience?
Wow – it’s hard to summarise it in just one sentence! It was a crazy and surreal experience, but I loved every second of it! The board room is pretty scary – no amount of auditions can every prepare you for those nerves! I was inspired by the other candidates I worked with, and learnt from all the tasks I was involved in! My favourite point was when we were doing the graphic design for “Ampi Apps” – it was refreshing to use my creative skills!

8) How can companies get involved with Surviving Actors?
Companies can become involved by exhibiting at our next convention in Manchester on July 23rd. It’s a great chance to meet actors who could benefit from the services that they offer. The day is well thought out, and always keeps the actors needs at the fore front of every decision. It’s created by actors, for actors!

9) What’s next?
Well our next event is at Manchester University, Renold Building on July 23rd 2011 – you can register for a free e-ticket here @ http://survivingactors.com/register.html
We are back in London in January 2012!

Thanks Felicity