Factors to Consider when Choosing a Stage Name

At the very top of your resume, located on the back of your headshot, should be your name in large bold letters. Sounds simple, but are you happy with your name? Moreover, are you considering the roles that you will be called in for based on your name? If not, and if you are thinking about changing it, now is the time to do it, before you put your name out there in the business or join a union. Your birth name defines you and represents your family history, ethnic roots, and the creative efforts of the parents who gave it to you. However, if it is difficult to pronounce, spell, or even remember, it may not be a name that you want for your professional career. In many cases, you may fear that you are being typecast because of your ethnicity and your name has a great deal to do with it. For example, you may have a name that stems from Hispanic origins, but you may not look Hispanic nor speak even a word of Spanish. This can cause a dilemma if casting directors misinterpret the type of character you are based on your name.

Changing your name can be a big decision to make, so it is best to consult your family members, close friends, and any industry professionals that you know before following through with it. If you want to retain an affiliation with your family name, consider using your mother's maiden name or the name of a very close relative. Whatever you choose to be called, pick a new name and consistently use it. This is called common usage. Or, you can go through a more formal court procedure. In general, court proceedings are fairly simple. Regardless of how you go about the name change, be proud to wear this new title and, once again, be consistent with it.

Once your name is changed, you must inform your state motor vehicle division and the Social Security Administration. You will also be required to report the change to your utility and credit card companies, passport bureau, banks, voter registrar, and the IRS. You can seek help from a paralegal resource if you have any further questions. You should also check with the actor's unions -- AEA, SAG, and AFTRA, before you choose to legally change your name because there may be another registered member in the union with your name. From there, once you've chosen a new name, it is time to embrace and be proud to slate it at your auditions!