Meet Sarah Maddocks from Worthing, UK who moved to LA in 2019 to pursue acting.
Was there a particular reason you chose LA?
LA is the heart of the film and television industry and I have always dreamed of working as an actor in Hollywood – there is so much opportunity here. I have been to LA several times over the years and have always loved the sense of infectious positivity. The open space gives a sense of freedom and the variety of landscape that California has to offer is incredible. I am still amazed that in one day you can be on a beach in the hot sunshine and then later that same day, skiing up in the mountains! And of course the climate and year-round sunshine is intoxicating. With my 01 Visa, this is the first time I have had the privilege of being able to live and work as an actor in the city I love.
What do you miss most from home?
I miss family and friends, but with Skype and WhatsApp, it’s easy to stay in touch. I also miss London theatre.
What was your first impression of LA and has it changed since?
My first impression of LA was that anything is possible if you are creative, driven and hardworking. LA radiated positivity, vibrancy and opportunity from the moment I first visited – and it still does. But it has become more expensive to live here.
What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus UK?
The positivity and the potential. I find people in LA are generally happier and less judgemental than they are in the UK. Customer service is also much better here – they even pack your shopping bags for you! Also the weather – I love the sunshine and the fabulous sunsets. I prefer warmer climes with less rain.
Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
I was introduced to Miceli’s, just off Hollywood Blvd, which is celebrating it’s 70th Anniversary this year. Its a wonderful little oasis of authentic Italian cuisine right in the middle of Hollywood. I also love Canter’s Deli which is even older – 88 years and still going strong!
What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
I recommend visiting LA first as a tourist, if you haven’t already been, so you get a general idea of what it’s like here and start exploring possible areas to stay in. Make some local contacts – and join Brits in LA, if you haven’t already! Then do lots of research, get legal advice and prepare your finances – LA is not a cheap place to live.
Lots of our members join our group Brits in LA seeking out words of wisdom – what is the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Keep an open mind, stay enthusiastic and surround yourself with a supportive group of people.
Lastly, how can we find out more about you? Are you working on anything at the moment?
My latest feature Adventure Boyz is due to be released in the US – we had a successful screening at Cannes in May and it was released in the UK earlier this year to great critical acclaim – it was even at the top of the IMDb charts for a while and it is due to be released in the US soon! I recently filmed part of a sci-fi series and have been cast in another US series, which I hope will get the green light to start shooting soon. Do check out my IMDb page for more information: imdb.me/sarahmaddocks
You can find out more about me on Twitter and Instagram
twitter.com/SarahMaddocks1
instagram.com/sarahmaddocks1.actress/
