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How can someone get started on an acting career I was going to become but I didn't know where to start or what the first step do you know what to do??
How can someone get started on an acting career? I was going to become but I didn't know where to start or what the first step do you know what to do?
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7 answers
Updated
Laura’s Answer
Hello Evan,
If you want to act, act!
Join a youth theatre group or amateur dramatic society. This is the first step in getting experience. Be open to every opportunity that comes your way, be it acting in productions, helping backstage or front-of-house. Be fearless and believe in yourself. You are going to need talent and luck, but you can create your own luck.
Become literate. Read plays and familiarise yourself with the great dramatists, including Shakespeare.
Watch films and attend theatrical productions. Develop your critical faculties and learn what makes good acting and theatre. Learn about Stanislavski, read Brecht, Tennessee Williams, Pinter, Arthur Miller.
Acting classes will teach you technique, including use of your voice and stage combat.
You may wish to study drama at university or apply for professional acting training.
Develop a thick skin. Putting yourself through auditions and dealing with rejection is not for the faint-hearted.
Look after your general health and appearance and keep fit. Acting is physically and emotionally demanding and you will need stamina and commitment.
Remember that acting is an overcrowded profession. Do it if you cannot imagine doing anything else.
Good luck!
If you want to act, act!
Join a youth theatre group or amateur dramatic society. This is the first step in getting experience. Be open to every opportunity that comes your way, be it acting in productions, helping backstage or front-of-house. Be fearless and believe in yourself. You are going to need talent and luck, but you can create your own luck.
Become literate. Read plays and familiarise yourself with the great dramatists, including Shakespeare.
Watch films and attend theatrical productions. Develop your critical faculties and learn what makes good acting and theatre. Learn about Stanislavski, read Brecht, Tennessee Williams, Pinter, Arthur Miller.
Acting classes will teach you technique, including use of your voice and stage combat.
You may wish to study drama at university or apply for professional acting training.
Develop a thick skin. Putting yourself through auditions and dealing with rejection is not for the faint-hearted.
Look after your general health and appearance and keep fit. Acting is physically and emotionally demanding and you will need stamina and commitment.
Remember that acting is an overcrowded profession. Do it if you cannot imagine doing anything else.
Good luck!
Updated
Mel’s Answer
Hey Evan!
Wow! You've got a passion for acting? That's fantastic! The advice given above is absolutely spot-on.
Embarking on an acting career is a truly exciting journey. What often surprises people is that it's not a sprint, but a marathon. Many think that if they simply "nail it", "network with the right crowd", or get "lucky", they'll achieve instant fame. While this can happen, most actors spend a significant amount of time honing their craft before they taste success. Along this journey, they develop their skills, techniques, and connections, and many evolve into genuine artists. However, it's worth noting that some of the most gifted actors may not always receive widespread recognition.
So, the key takeaway here is not to chase acting for the sake of fame and fortune. Pursue it only if you can't envision yourself doing anything else.
On that note, if you're all in, you're in a great place to start. A quick Google search shows a plethora of acting schools and opportunities in Charlotte, NC. Enroll in classes, audition, watch theater performances, films, and look for actor interviews on social media. Approach your classes with seriousness. Be punctual, prepare, and practice. Network with your fellow actors, organize group readings. There are numerous excellent books available, especially those about Sanford Meisner, Stella Adler, and Stanislavski. Start building your resume as you progress!
Remember, there are various ways to pursue acting, each requiring unique training. Theater is one, but there's also television, film, and what I'm currently doing: Voice Over Acting (VO).
VO requires the skill to engage audiences using only your voice. Many VO actors specialize in areas like video games, animation, commercials, audiobooks, eLearning, documentary narration, promo, and more. If you're interested in Voice Acting, don't hesitate to contact me for more information. Much of the training can be done online. It's a warm and welcoming community of actors, but be aware of potential scams.
In all acting fields, it's crucial to stay on top of marketing and the business side of your career. Headshots, reels, audio demos, social media networking, emails, record-keeping, invoicing - you'll need to manage yourself like a business entrepreneur!
Alright, I've shared quite a bit. I hope you find it useful! Feel free to reach out at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mel-rose-589b60203?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BDVwTekFrR1eF%2B6yC1f8gwg%3D%3D
Best of luck, Evan!
Mel.
MelRoseVO.com
Wow! You've got a passion for acting? That's fantastic! The advice given above is absolutely spot-on.
Embarking on an acting career is a truly exciting journey. What often surprises people is that it's not a sprint, but a marathon. Many think that if they simply "nail it", "network with the right crowd", or get "lucky", they'll achieve instant fame. While this can happen, most actors spend a significant amount of time honing their craft before they taste success. Along this journey, they develop their skills, techniques, and connections, and many evolve into genuine artists. However, it's worth noting that some of the most gifted actors may not always receive widespread recognition.
So, the key takeaway here is not to chase acting for the sake of fame and fortune. Pursue it only if you can't envision yourself doing anything else.
On that note, if you're all in, you're in a great place to start. A quick Google search shows a plethora of acting schools and opportunities in Charlotte, NC. Enroll in classes, audition, watch theater performances, films, and look for actor interviews on social media. Approach your classes with seriousness. Be punctual, prepare, and practice. Network with your fellow actors, organize group readings. There are numerous excellent books available, especially those about Sanford Meisner, Stella Adler, and Stanislavski. Start building your resume as you progress!
Remember, there are various ways to pursue acting, each requiring unique training. Theater is one, but there's also television, film, and what I'm currently doing: Voice Over Acting (VO).
VO requires the skill to engage audiences using only your voice. Many VO actors specialize in areas like video games, animation, commercials, audiobooks, eLearning, documentary narration, promo, and more. If you're interested in Voice Acting, don't hesitate to contact me for more information. Much of the training can be done online. It's a warm and welcoming community of actors, but be aware of potential scams.
In all acting fields, it's crucial to stay on top of marketing and the business side of your career. Headshots, reels, audio demos, social media networking, emails, record-keeping, invoicing - you'll need to manage yourself like a business entrepreneur!
Alright, I've shared quite a bit. I hope you find it useful! Feel free to reach out at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mel-rose-589b60203?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BDVwTekFrR1eF%2B6yC1f8gwg%3D%3D
Best of luck, Evan!
Mel.
MelRoseVO.com
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 => Optimization Of Human Performance: jim.frangos@gmail
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Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Evan!
Getting Started on an Acting Career
Starting an acting career can be both exciting and daunting. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process effectively.
1. Understand the Industry
Before diving into acting, it’s crucial to understand the entertainment industry. Research various aspects of acting, including different genres (theater, film, television), types of roles (lead, supporting, extras), and the overall landscape of casting and production. Familiarize yourself with key terms and concepts such as auditions, casting calls, agents, and headshots.
2. Develop Your Skills
Acting is a craft that requires training and practice. Consider enrolling in acting classes or workshops to develop your skills. Look for local community colleges or theater schools that offer courses in acting techniques, improvisation, voice modulation, and movement. Participating in these classes will not only enhance your abilities but also provide networking opportunities with fellow aspiring actors.
3. Gain Experience
Experience is vital in building your resume as an actor. Start small by participating in local theater productions, student films, or community events. Audition for roles in plays at local theaters or join community groups that focus on performing arts. This hands-on experience will help you understand the dynamics of performance and improve your confidence on stage or in front of a camera.
4. Create a Portfolio
A professional portfolio is essential for showcasing your talent to potential agents and casting directors. This typically includes:
Headshots: Professional photographs that capture your appearance.
Resume: A detailed account of your acting experience, training, skills, and any special talents (like singing or dancing).
Demo Reel: A short video compilation of your performances that highlights your range as an actor.
Investing time in creating a polished portfolio can significantly enhance your chances of being noticed.
5. Find Representation
While it’s possible to pursue acting without an agent initially, having representation can open doors to more significant opportunities. Research reputable talent agencies in your area and submit your portfolio for consideration. Be prepared for auditions; agents often look for actors who are versatile and have a strong presence.
6. Audition Regularly
Auditions are a critical part of an acting career. Look for audition notices online through platforms like Backstage or Casting Networks where you can find opportunities suited to your skill level and interests. Prepare thoroughly for each audition by researching the role and practicing lines ahead of time.
7. Network within the Industry
Networking is essential in the entertainment industry. Attend industry events such as film festivals, workshops, or theater openings where you can meet professionals from various sectors—directors, producers, other actors—who may provide valuable insights or opportunities down the line.
8. Stay Persistent and Resilient
The path to becoming a successful actor often involves facing rejection and challenges along the way. It’s important to remain persistent and resilient throughout this journey. Keep honing your craft through continuous learning and practice while maintaining a positive attitude toward setbacks.
9. Consider Further Education
If you’re serious about pursuing acting professionally, consider further education options such as drama schools or conservatories that offer comprehensive programs focused on performance arts.
By following these steps diligently while remaining passionate about acting, you can build a solid foundation for a successful career in this competitive field.
Probability that this answer is correct: 95%
God Bless!
JC.
Getting Started on an Acting Career
Starting an acting career can be both exciting and daunting. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process effectively.
1. Understand the Industry
Before diving into acting, it’s crucial to understand the entertainment industry. Research various aspects of acting, including different genres (theater, film, television), types of roles (lead, supporting, extras), and the overall landscape of casting and production. Familiarize yourself with key terms and concepts such as auditions, casting calls, agents, and headshots.
2. Develop Your Skills
Acting is a craft that requires training and practice. Consider enrolling in acting classes or workshops to develop your skills. Look for local community colleges or theater schools that offer courses in acting techniques, improvisation, voice modulation, and movement. Participating in these classes will not only enhance your abilities but also provide networking opportunities with fellow aspiring actors.
3. Gain Experience
Experience is vital in building your resume as an actor. Start small by participating in local theater productions, student films, or community events. Audition for roles in plays at local theaters or join community groups that focus on performing arts. This hands-on experience will help you understand the dynamics of performance and improve your confidence on stage or in front of a camera.
4. Create a Portfolio
A professional portfolio is essential for showcasing your talent to potential agents and casting directors. This typically includes:
Headshots: Professional photographs that capture your appearance.
Resume: A detailed account of your acting experience, training, skills, and any special talents (like singing or dancing).
Demo Reel: A short video compilation of your performances that highlights your range as an actor.
Investing time in creating a polished portfolio can significantly enhance your chances of being noticed.
5. Find Representation
While it’s possible to pursue acting without an agent initially, having representation can open doors to more significant opportunities. Research reputable talent agencies in your area and submit your portfolio for consideration. Be prepared for auditions; agents often look for actors who are versatile and have a strong presence.
6. Audition Regularly
Auditions are a critical part of an acting career. Look for audition notices online through platforms like Backstage or Casting Networks where you can find opportunities suited to your skill level and interests. Prepare thoroughly for each audition by researching the role and practicing lines ahead of time.
7. Network within the Industry
Networking is essential in the entertainment industry. Attend industry events such as film festivals, workshops, or theater openings where you can meet professionals from various sectors—directors, producers, other actors—who may provide valuable insights or opportunities down the line.
8. Stay Persistent and Resilient
The path to becoming a successful actor often involves facing rejection and challenges along the way. It’s important to remain persistent and resilient throughout this journey. Keep honing your craft through continuous learning and practice while maintaining a positive attitude toward setbacks.
9. Consider Further Education
If you’re serious about pursuing acting professionally, consider further education options such as drama schools or conservatories that offer comprehensive programs focused on performance arts.
By following these steps diligently while remaining passionate about acting, you can build a solid foundation for a successful career in this competitive field.
Probability that this answer is correct: 95%
God Bless!
JC.
Updated
Angel’s Answer
To get started in an acting career, begin by gaining experience and building skills. Take acting classes or attend drama school to learn the basics of stage and screen performance. Participate in community theater or student films to gain practical experience and build a portfolio. Create a professional headshot and resume, showcasing your acting experience. Network by attending auditions, casting calls, or joining acting agencies. It’s also important to practice regularly, stay persistent, and develop resilience as the industry can be competitive. Finally, consider creating an online presence to showcase your talent and attract potential roles.
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Evan !
I am always happy to know of students interested in acting and as someone in the field, I would like to provide some advice for you ! We all had to begin our discoveries of ourselves as an Actor, so you'll need to start at the very beginning to get a grasp of how actors obtain work.
You will need lots of education, special skills training, experience performing in a substantial amount of projects, life experience, and a stellar understanding of human behavior. You will also need transportation, acting material such as photos, resume and a reel of your work. When you have prepared all of this, your interactions within your acting community will inform you of how to obtain work. You'll learn as you go along. So for right now, you've thought about it enough, start taking active steps every day to start your journey towards becoming a professional Actor.
For acting, everything is based on what type you are. You will be evaluated for work based on how you look and how you sound, and we all have our unique presence. As you go along learning about "type" you will know what roles you can audition for and many roles are generic, so there will always be something for you to audition for, but do not audition until you are completely ready as an actor or you will be disappointed. This career takes time because there is a lot to learn.
For right now, you can focus on learning acting theory and technique. You will need to get feedback, in person, from people that observe your acting. This is best done in high school and in college as well as community based acting classes. Once you are 100% aware of HOW to Be an actor, you will automatically know how to obtain work as an actor. It will all fall into place for you. It does take time - it did for all of us.
If you are under the age of18, my advice is to wait until you are 18. I also advise attending college as a Theatre Major. That degree will make life easier for you in general and you will begin to make contacts and have opportunities through your college. You will also have a structured, disciplined and profound experience learning acting in an academic setting.
So there are many things to do before pursuing a career as a professional actor. The wonderful thing is that you alone will know when you are ready to start and at that time, you'll know exactly HOW to become an actor !
Best wishes to you on your unique and special journey !
I am always happy to know of students interested in acting and as someone in the field, I would like to provide some advice for you ! We all had to begin our discoveries of ourselves as an Actor, so you'll need to start at the very beginning to get a grasp of how actors obtain work.
You will need lots of education, special skills training, experience performing in a substantial amount of projects, life experience, and a stellar understanding of human behavior. You will also need transportation, acting material such as photos, resume and a reel of your work. When you have prepared all of this, your interactions within your acting community will inform you of how to obtain work. You'll learn as you go along. So for right now, you've thought about it enough, start taking active steps every day to start your journey towards becoming a professional Actor.
For acting, everything is based on what type you are. You will be evaluated for work based on how you look and how you sound, and we all have our unique presence. As you go along learning about "type" you will know what roles you can audition for and many roles are generic, so there will always be something for you to audition for, but do not audition until you are completely ready as an actor or you will be disappointed. This career takes time because there is a lot to learn.
For right now, you can focus on learning acting theory and technique. You will need to get feedback, in person, from people that observe your acting. This is best done in high school and in college as well as community based acting classes. Once you are 100% aware of HOW to Be an actor, you will automatically know how to obtain work as an actor. It will all fall into place for you. It does take time - it did for all of us.
If you are under the age of18, my advice is to wait until you are 18. I also advise attending college as a Theatre Major. That degree will make life easier for you in general and you will begin to make contacts and have opportunities through your college. You will also have a structured, disciplined and profound experience learning acting in an academic setting.
So there are many things to do before pursuing a career as a professional actor. The wonderful thing is that you alone will know when you are ready to start and at that time, you'll know exactly HOW to become an actor !
Best wishes to you on your unique and special journey !
Updated
Adrian’s Answer
YouTube yourself and engage with your audience
Updated
Brian’s Answer
Great question.
For a long time, I felt the same as you. I took a few acting classes and became friends with other actors who encouraged me to audition. Since then, I have performed in countless plays, been in movies and on television. But I did all that the long way.
Acting is much more accessible than I once thought. The best way to start is to find a short monologue (2 min) and read it over and over, until you can repeat it perfectly. Then, get a headshot. Some of the professional photographers will charge a decent amount of money, but the best way is to connect with an acting group online. (search Facebook) Then once you are there, everyone will give you tips on where to get a good headshot for a good price. When you complete these two steps....you are ready to audition.
I would start with community theater in your area. Search them online, and follow their posts. They will most likely post their audition notices on their page. Find a part that you fit into. Have your monologue memorized and headshot in hand. Some theaters want both a digital copy and a hard copy. Don't show up without a hard copy just in case that theater wants one. Have a resume of any acting classes or experience. If you have none, then be honest. I've been a director and I've cast many newcomers in plays.
Just remember. If you don't get cast the first time, don't give up. Audition again for another play. They will see the determination. If you want to act on film, the process is similar. I would suggest on starting with theater to gain some very valuable experience.
Find a monologue in the bookstore, library, or online. Shoot for a 2 min monologue. Study it, learn it, and memorize it.
Headshot. You need a headshot. I've seen actors come in with a headshot from a cell phone. It can work, but as a last effort.
Find acting groups online. Join their groups and network with other actors.
Find an audition.
Most importantly. Be yourself, have fun, and break legs.
For a long time, I felt the same as you. I took a few acting classes and became friends with other actors who encouraged me to audition. Since then, I have performed in countless plays, been in movies and on television. But I did all that the long way.
Acting is much more accessible than I once thought. The best way to start is to find a short monologue (2 min) and read it over and over, until you can repeat it perfectly. Then, get a headshot. Some of the professional photographers will charge a decent amount of money, but the best way is to connect with an acting group online. (search Facebook) Then once you are there, everyone will give you tips on where to get a good headshot for a good price. When you complete these two steps....you are ready to audition.
I would start with community theater in your area. Search them online, and follow their posts. They will most likely post their audition notices on their page. Find a part that you fit into. Have your monologue memorized and headshot in hand. Some theaters want both a digital copy and a hard copy. Don't show up without a hard copy just in case that theater wants one. Have a resume of any acting classes or experience. If you have none, then be honest. I've been a director and I've cast many newcomers in plays.
Just remember. If you don't get cast the first time, don't give up. Audition again for another play. They will see the determination. If you want to act on film, the process is similar. I would suggest on starting with theater to gain some very valuable experience.
Brian recommends the following next steps: