Meet Len Davies from Cardiff who moved to LA two years ago to pursue acting and production.
Why did you chose LA?
Hollywood has been my target for many years. I’ve been involved in production pretty much all of my life and since 2001 I had my company, Spectrum Multimedia, operating in London, but something was missing. I’ve dabbled in acting most of my life and when I discovered the Industry Hollywood seminar on the 01 Visa it seemed like the right time and definitely the right place. I had the production credits to get my visa and bolted my acting on the back end of it, but LA is the only place for me in my mind as it gives me so much more opportunity in everything I can do, and so many more potential rewards for hard work.
What one thing do you miss from home?
Heinz baked beans, Digestive biscuits and TRUE Fish and Chips. There are versions of each here but I really miss the local chippy.
What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus the UK?
It has to be the weather. I hate snow and the cold (looks great on Christmas cards and in the movies), and the reality of going out in shorts in 75 degrees on Christmas day suits my sensitivities. Also my new apartment has underground parking, which I find ideal, particularly after having my car broken into and two vans stolen in Dagenham.
Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
Charlie’s Pantry in Studio City on Ventura is a wonderful place to hold meetings and enjoy one of the best lattes and choice of food options ever. Also as an actor I’ve found a great headshot option at Minuteman press on Hollywood Way in Burbank. For 20 copies I pay $13 and Maritza, the owner, is incredibly helpful and versatile in anything I’ve thrown at her so far. Maybe not so hidden but Toi Thai on Sunset Boulevard is amazing for a rocker like me. There’s so much memorabilia on the walls while serving amazing food.
What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
I’ve seen a few friends come over as actors who had very little support and could ONLY work as actors. You need to do a lot of research before stepping on the plane as so many people forget the extra costs such as deposits for renting, transport, and being able to pay your bills on a monthly basis with potentially a year or more before you’ll be earning. If you have another ability that can be added to your visa at the time you’re applying think about it, then at least you have the possibility of earning money outside of the acting.
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