Wendi McLendon-Covey

In 2009, 2010, 2011 she rang in the New Year in Iraq and Kuwait, performing at small bases that rarely get any entertainment.

As a performer, you can't just sit around waiting for the phone to ring. You have to write and develop projects for yourself, because casting people aren't always going to see you the way you want to be seen. Write a one-person show, shoot a short film, do plays, whatever - activity breeds activity. No one's interested in a stay-at-home actress.