Struggling Actor On A Role

Role On 'Guiding Light' And Acting Classes At Prestigious Studio

(CBS)  Any actor trying to break into the business knows overnight success can take many years of effort.

Markanthony Izzo has managed to keep his passion for the craft alive, no matter how small his stage. He's not on Broadway or even at a theatre near you, but at the David Humphreys House in Ansonia, Conn.

Three days a week, Izzo and his collegues re-enact everyday life in colonial New England.

"It works out well for me, having an actor background, because I actually have a different audience everyday," Izzo says.

As the only self-proclaimed actor in a house of educators, he entertains audiences that arrive by the busloads to learn about life in the 18th century.

To the children he explains, "This is the keeping room. Everything that we need to do our jobs is kept here. Have you ever heard of the term 'house keeping?' That's where it came from."

But Izzo still has his eye on a more substantial role.

"A lot of people tell me I look like Sean Connery. And I do admire him," he says, "At this time unfortunately, I'm at the extra level of TV shows and movies."

He made way for a fleeing criminal on "Third Watch" and was an anonymous offical on "Law & Order: Criminal Intent."

Izzo notes, "The amazing thing about acting, it's not a business that encourages you. Let me tell you that. You have to have a thick skin to be in this business because it's about rejection."