Unconventional Reinvention
You would think that resigning from the prestigious United Stuntwomen’s Association (USA) was a bad idea for a women who performs stunts in the film business. It wasn’t easy, but that’s exactly what I did.
Primarily, economics dictated saving since the USA monthly dues are significant and, let’s face it, as much as I love Obama, the economy isn’t going to get fixed overnight. On the other hand, my subconscious backed up the decision with the intrigue of completely reinventing my career.
Taking this reinvention as far as I can to me includes presenting a whole new persona, doing everything differently than I did in the past. Over the years, I followed a basic set of rules that worked in the beginning of my career, but serves no purpose any more. I trained hard at every stunt skill possible. I “hustled” several film sets a day. I politely kept a professional stance with stunt coordinators. I kept my opinions to myself. I’ve had the same commercial agent from day one. And, I joined the most distinguished stunt organization for women in the film business – USA. Today is a new day, however.
This is my Unconventional Reinvention plan:
Focus career in Louisiana.
Use married name, Leigh Hennessy-Robson, with all my promotional materials including headshots, resumes and more.
Focus on trampoline training with fitness training as a supplement.
Treat stunt coordinators like peers instead of authorities.
Increase relationships with producers, casting directors and more.
Get new agent(s).
Apply for stunt coordinator jobs.
Work on smaller productions to expand and improve my skill base, including directing, producing and acting.
Be myself, speak my mind, be independent.
Have a hell of a lot more fun!
