I would like to know some tips for a person who wants to pursue a career in acting.
I recently grew upon a love for acting and I want to get to be a professional t.v. actress. #acting #actress
6 answers
Jared’s Answer
Training is very important. Take classes whenever you can. It's hard to make enough money to pay for classes without a part time job. That's one way to get a career going in the right directions
Isaiah’s Answer
I'd definitely agree with all of the above.
Most actors do in fact start out on stage.Theater is always the best teacher and then you find your own way.
I'd also recommend getting together with some friends and even making your own magic. There are always periods of down time (waiting for auditions, projects, etc.)but If you stick with this career (which I'm hoping you will), or even starting out fresh, you'll meet some other creative minds who are looking to create just like you are. This is always a great opportunity to collaborate and push one another.
Read books/scripts, watch films, and television, but more importantly, tune into the shows that you could see yourself on in the future. Watch the actors, listen to the dialogue, take in the tone of the show as a whole.
Keep busy, and Keep POSITIVE! ...
Good Luck!
Mia Levinson Wheeler
Mia’s Answer
I think all of the advice you've received so far is good. Do your homework. This is taking classes, reading books, and studying everything you can about the craft you want to pursue. This includes watching lots of movies watching TV shows, seeing what actors are currently doing and trying to see where you think you fit. Comedy classes are also really great, they give great training, and get you outside of your comfort zone sometimes. It all adds up. I also tell a lot of starting actors to be an extra. It's a great experience for you to be on sets if you live somewhere where you can do that. You get to see firsthand what it's like to be on a set and learn about the industry. And you may get your SAG card, which someone said above, by being a featured extra getting a line. And it's not just TV series & movies. Many people started out on soap operas (Meg Ryan, Robin Wright, Anne Heche, Alec Baldwin) And many people get discovered in commercials or music videos. The more you do things with other actors, classes, plays, workshops, the more you'll start hearing about stuff happening, open calls, etc. And get opinions on the head shots before you make your choices. Not your family, other actors or entertainment profs. Good luck!
Scott David’s Answer
I would recommend acting classes. Some schools in New York have on camera training courses, such as NYU which would include a degree, or joining a conservatory program like Stone Street Studio, or The Lee Strasberg Institute, Stella Adler Institute, Atlantic Studio, The New York Film Academy, ect.
I would also recommend, joining the actor unions. This can be done by getting a line on a TV or Film production, or by getting 3 vouchers by working in background. Both take time. However, luck is only preparation and timing.
You need great head shots and a good reel.
The road is long, but if you love it, and are dedicated and never willing to take no for an answer, you will find a way.
Angela Theresa (Collins) Egic
Angela Theresa’s Answer
The advice is good. Nevertheless, as both suggested, classes and training is the best advice.
Also, first hand experience...
1) School/Church and Community Theatre Productions
2) Your school drama classes
3) Theatre training gives you solid respect and training for acting anywhere.
4) Reading books such as "Audition" by Michael Shurtleff, "Respect For Acting" by Uta Hagen.
5) Also there are often classes offered at the local Y and Boys/Girls Clubs.
6) Joining the unions comes later, and you shouldn't even be concerned about it or agents until you are well-trained and have a good list of experience.
We all began as regular school kids with no agents, and no union cards. Some high schools even offer television/film departments. Learn all you can ...
Christine McClure
Christine’s Answer
Scott Reeves advice is great.
I would add don't limit yourself to TV, also when training think of feature films too.
Always take classes that will train you in sensory work, improvisation character development and the different techniques for comedy and drama. Sensory work is the most important technique for being a film actor as it will help your preparation when shooting out of sequence.
You also can get a SAG/AFTRA eligible (union card) in California by making short film/video with some actors or directors who are SAG/AFTRA already. Scott Reeve's advice is good.
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