Floridians know that our state is hot for a lot of reasons, and we’re not talking about the weather. We have brag-worthy beaches, celebrity draws like glitzy South Beach, entertaining casinos and a booming film and TV production industry. It’s a good time to be an actor in Florida. Avenue Productions examines the top six reasons why Florida is the place to be for a novice actor.

#1. Production Companies Receive Competitive Tax Incentives

According to the Florida Office of Film and Entertainment, the demand for performers (singers, dancers, actors) in Florida is steadily rising, thanks to healthy tax incentives for production companies. The state practically throws money at producers to come film here, which keeps us busy when we submit our talent for the acting jobs that open up.

#2. Florida is a Right-to-Work State

If you’re ready to pick up and move to New York or California, give it a second thought.Because Florida is a right-to-work state, actors are not required to join a union unless they want to, which is not the case for actors in New York or California. That means new actors have to be a part of SAG or AFTRA before they can practice their on-screen craft professionally.

Do you see the problem there for new actors?

Without a professional resume, admission into those unions is not possible, but how are you supposed to build your resume when you’re not part of a union? Avoid the Catch-22 by sticking to sunny Florida for the beginning stages of your acting career.

#3. Acting Work is Available Year-Round

Every winter, we see an influx of international visitors flooding our highways and tanning on our beaches, and we welcome the added boost to our economy. But some of the snowbirds aren’t here on vacation—they’re here to put new and experienced actors to work. While other parts of the country are covered in crisp, white snow, Florida’s actors are basking in the sun, adding to their resumes with acting work from northern and European film, TV, and commercial producers, which ties into our fourth reason for getting started in acting right here.

#4. Florida Actors Get International Exposure

Imagine being on the set of a commercial for Renault cars, or a grocery store chain in Holland. People clear across the world will be exposed to your likeness! Florida’s enviable year-round weather attracts companies in Europe, from Monaco to Russia, and we have even sent our talent out for spots slated to air in Africa and Australia.

#5. Demand for Everyday People is at an All-Time High

With all the work there is to be had in Florida—especially for us here in South Florida—the need for everyday people to fill assorted roles is growing. Reality shows, TV commercials, and movie sets contact talent agencies like ours with all kinds of requests. Short, tall, plus-size, petite, old, young—people of all ages, sizes, shapes, and ethnicities are being asked for everyday. So no matter what you look like, there’s probably a role out there with your name on it.

#6. No Experience is Necessary!

Got a blank acting resume? No problem! You can still find jobs for actors in Florida without a snazzy lineup of professional work. Going to acting school or training with a mentor aren’t a requirement for Florida actors. Many times, you just have to have a certain look to book a job, and training is provided on the set.