3 answers
Anthony
Student
Benton, Louisiana
1
Question
Asked
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How would one get into the acting community; what tips/tricks should I use to become a successful actor? I’m new at this and I’d love some tips to get into it!
I’ve been wanting to be an actor for as long as I can remember, but I’m from a small town in Louisiana. So I’ll need a bit of help to get there. Any ideas?
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3 answers
Amalya Sukiasyan
ESOL teacher at Washington English Center
297
Answers
Yerevan
Updated
Amalya’s Answer
Hi Anthony,
It's great that you've already found your passion. If possible and if you like, you can think about getting a college degree in theatre studies or acting. It will help you have professional and academic background in your chosen field and also expand your network.
Then you will be able to apply for relevant acting jobs, and so on.
It's great that you've already found your passion. If possible and if you like, you can think about getting a college degree in theatre studies or acting. It will help you have professional and academic background in your chosen field and also expand your network.
Then you will be able to apply for relevant acting jobs, and so on.
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1879
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Anthony !
I'd be happy to give you some advice about where to start for acting. You will need two things: training and actual experience performing in front of an audience and on screen. Since you are 15 miles from Shreveport, you may want to spend some time there and become familiar with the Shreveport Little Theatre. Learn about any acting classes people there may give and what their audition process is. You will need daily concentration and training for acting. If you are in high school, participate in all acting activities. If you plan to go to college, the theatre programs are very rigorous and allow you to blossom as an actor. You don't need a degree, but I would suggest getting one as it will help you in other ways. Been there, done that. You will not regret getting at least a Bachelors Degree. There are a lot of acting instruction videos on You Tube that may help you, but you really do need in person training. As an actor, it is all about how you look and how you sound because it is a visual industry and you should do vocal and physical exercise every day to keep in shape. Taking an academic route makes it very structured and there are many professors in college to help you, give you the support we all need.
Figure out what is drawing you to acting and establish a mindset that is your own unique reason why you want to be an actor. It really is not all about fame and fortune. It's a lot of hard work, discipline and the reward of making one's income solely from acting should be the goal, not glamourous ideals or becoming rich and famous. If you enter the field with honest, realistic intent, you will be happy with your career.
At some point, you may decide to relocate to where most of the work is. That would be New York City or Los Angeles. It's your choice. I do want to let you know that many people are breaking away from these usual acting hubs and doing work in towns you wouldn't expect. You just never know where you'll find acting work these days, even remotely online, believe it or not ! The industry is slowly changing in the 21st century and that is why you need to find a theatre niche now so that you can keep up to date and be aware of opportunities.
If you want acting bad enough, you will not let anything hold you back, not a small town, not criticism, not discouragement. When you feel that you can perform effectively, sign up with Actors Access. Casting people use it to cast actors. Be sure you are ready to go on stage confidently or in front of a camera with ease. You just may be cast in something when you least expect it.
I hope that this is helpful and you should always ask questions as there really is a lot to know about acting. Best wishes to you on your creative, exciting journey towards the acting world !
I'd be happy to give you some advice about where to start for acting. You will need two things: training and actual experience performing in front of an audience and on screen. Since you are 15 miles from Shreveport, you may want to spend some time there and become familiar with the Shreveport Little Theatre. Learn about any acting classes people there may give and what their audition process is. You will need daily concentration and training for acting. If you are in high school, participate in all acting activities. If you plan to go to college, the theatre programs are very rigorous and allow you to blossom as an actor. You don't need a degree, but I would suggest getting one as it will help you in other ways. Been there, done that. You will not regret getting at least a Bachelors Degree. There are a lot of acting instruction videos on You Tube that may help you, but you really do need in person training. As an actor, it is all about how you look and how you sound because it is a visual industry and you should do vocal and physical exercise every day to keep in shape. Taking an academic route makes it very structured and there are many professors in college to help you, give you the support we all need.
Figure out what is drawing you to acting and establish a mindset that is your own unique reason why you want to be an actor. It really is not all about fame and fortune. It's a lot of hard work, discipline and the reward of making one's income solely from acting should be the goal, not glamourous ideals or becoming rich and famous. If you enter the field with honest, realistic intent, you will be happy with your career.
At some point, you may decide to relocate to where most of the work is. That would be New York City or Los Angeles. It's your choice. I do want to let you know that many people are breaking away from these usual acting hubs and doing work in towns you wouldn't expect. You just never know where you'll find acting work these days, even remotely online, believe it or not ! The industry is slowly changing in the 21st century and that is why you need to find a theatre niche now so that you can keep up to date and be aware of opportunities.
If you want acting bad enough, you will not let anything hold you back, not a small town, not criticism, not discouragement. When you feel that you can perform effectively, sign up with Actors Access. Casting people use it to cast actors. Be sure you are ready to go on stage confidently or in front of a camera with ease. You just may be cast in something when you least expect it.
I hope that this is helpful and you should always ask questions as there really is a lot to know about acting. Best wishes to you on your creative, exciting journey towards the acting world !
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
521
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Embarking on a career in acting can be both exciting and challenging, especially if you're from a smaller town. Here are some tips to help you get started and work towards becoming a successful actor:
**1. Build Your Acting Skills:**
- Take acting classes and workshops to develop your acting skills. Consider enrolling in local theater groups or community college drama programs.
**2. Read and Learn:**
- Read plays, scripts, and books on acting techniques. Study the works of renowned playwrights and actors to expand your knowledge.
**3. Attend Acting Schools or Conservatories:**
- If possible, consider pursuing formal acting education at a drama school or conservatory. These institutions can provide intensive training and valuable networking opportunities.
**4. Create an Acting Portfolio:**
- As you gain experience, build a portfolio that includes your headshots, resume, and a demo reel showcasing your acting abilities.
**5. Perform Locally:**
- Participate in local theater productions, school plays, or community events to gain practical experience and build your acting resume.
**6. Networking:**
- Attend acting workshops, seminars, and local industry events. Networking can help you connect with professionals in the field and learn from their experiences.
**7. Create an Online Presence:**
- Create a professional online presence by having a website or social media profiles dedicated to your acting career. Share updates on your projects, headshots, and demo reel.
**8. Audition Frequently:**
- Look for auditions in your local area, nearby cities, and online casting websites. Auditioning regularly increases your chances of landing roles.
**9. Be Persistent:**
- Rejection is a part of the acting industry. Don't get discouraged by setbacks. Keep auditioning and learning from each experience.
**10. Consider Relocation:**
- If you're serious about pursuing acting professionally, you may need to consider relocating to a larger city with a thriving entertainment industry, such as Los Angeles, New York, or Atlanta.
**11. Seek Representation:**
- Once you have some experience, consider seeking representation from a talent agent or manager who can help you find audition opportunities.
**12. Diversify Your Skills:**
- Explore different acting styles and mediums, including theater, film, television, voice acting, and commercials. Diversifying your skills can open up more opportunities.
**13. Continuous Learning:**
- Acting is an art that requires ongoing growth and refinement. Stay committed to improving your craft through workshops and classes.
**14. Be Professional:**
- Maintain professionalism in all your interactions within the industry. Reliable and respectful actors are highly valued.
**15. Stay Informed:**
- Stay updated on industry trends, casting calls, and the work of actors and directors you admire.
Remember that success in acting often takes time and persistence. It's a competitive field, but with dedication, continuous learning, and a passion for storytelling, you can work toward achieving your goals. Keep honing your craft, building your network, and seizing opportunities as they come your way. Your journey as an actor will be unique, and each experience will contribute to your growth as an artist.
**1. Build Your Acting Skills:**
- Take acting classes and workshops to develop your acting skills. Consider enrolling in local theater groups or community college drama programs.
**2. Read and Learn:**
- Read plays, scripts, and books on acting techniques. Study the works of renowned playwrights and actors to expand your knowledge.
**3. Attend Acting Schools or Conservatories:**
- If possible, consider pursuing formal acting education at a drama school or conservatory. These institutions can provide intensive training and valuable networking opportunities.
**4. Create an Acting Portfolio:**
- As you gain experience, build a portfolio that includes your headshots, resume, and a demo reel showcasing your acting abilities.
**5. Perform Locally:**
- Participate in local theater productions, school plays, or community events to gain practical experience and build your acting resume.
**6. Networking:**
- Attend acting workshops, seminars, and local industry events. Networking can help you connect with professionals in the field and learn from their experiences.
**7. Create an Online Presence:**
- Create a professional online presence by having a website or social media profiles dedicated to your acting career. Share updates on your projects, headshots, and demo reel.
**8. Audition Frequently:**
- Look for auditions in your local area, nearby cities, and online casting websites. Auditioning regularly increases your chances of landing roles.
**9. Be Persistent:**
- Rejection is a part of the acting industry. Don't get discouraged by setbacks. Keep auditioning and learning from each experience.
**10. Consider Relocation:**
- If you're serious about pursuing acting professionally, you may need to consider relocating to a larger city with a thriving entertainment industry, such as Los Angeles, New York, or Atlanta.
**11. Seek Representation:**
- Once you have some experience, consider seeking representation from a talent agent or manager who can help you find audition opportunities.
**12. Diversify Your Skills:**
- Explore different acting styles and mediums, including theater, film, television, voice acting, and commercials. Diversifying your skills can open up more opportunities.
**13. Continuous Learning:**
- Acting is an art that requires ongoing growth and refinement. Stay committed to improving your craft through workshops and classes.
**14. Be Professional:**
- Maintain professionalism in all your interactions within the industry. Reliable and respectful actors are highly valued.
**15. Stay Informed:**
- Stay updated on industry trends, casting calls, and the work of actors and directors you admire.
Remember that success in acting often takes time and persistence. It's a competitive field, but with dedication, continuous learning, and a passion for storytelling, you can work toward achieving your goals. Keep honing your craft, building your network, and seizing opportunities as they come your way. Your journey as an actor will be unique, and each experience will contribute to your growth as an artist.