12 Dec 11 How To Become An Actor
So you have always enjoyed being in the limelight and taking part in college plays, but you're wondering how you actually become an actor. Well here is a few tips and guidelines to show you just what is concerned.
Before you even start to consider a career in acting you are going to require some coaching. It's easy to become an average performer but to become an outstanding one it requires a bunch of time, commitment and stamina, and for people to treat you seriously you are going to need formal coaching and a piece of paper to prove it.
Where to Start
Your most important step therefore is to do classes at one of the authorized drama schools in Britain or attend a University where you can do a degree in drama. A BSc will take 3 years and a Msc will take 1 year. A Varsity course is more educational than practical, and a degree could help if you would like to make an application for other drama related jobs such as stage boss, TV production aid or drama teacher, for instance.
Performing arts school is a handy place to start for any aspiring actor since they will take people of any age. The courses usually last 2 - 3 years. When you apply for a place at acting school you'll be needed to attend an audition. At drama schools like the Bristol Old Vic, you'll be asked to perform a solo excerpt from a classical piece, another from a modern play and a simple, alone song. You'll also get given a short piece to read on the day and this will be followed by a short and ad hoc chat, during which time you get to ask any questions you may have. If you're successful at this stage you'll be recalled for a thorough one day audition. From this recall a short list is assembled of successful candidates who will be offered a place. Drama schools are always over subscribed, so you actually need to give it your best shot.
Qualities needed
Good communication abilities
Articulate speech
Good vocabulary and understanding of language
Ability to interact well with others
Good memory and ability to focus
Great timing abilities
High energy levels
Physical ability
How to get ready for acting college
1. Be passionate and determined, perceptive, and flexible
2. Get some good black and white photographs taken, professionally if at all possible. Called 'headshots ' these will form a part of your portfolio
3. Prepare a good CV or resume with a creative and inventive bias. You can start by including references to college plays, talent shows or singing competitions which can be replaced when you get any farther acting roles
4. Practice 2 speechs, one classical and one modern, until you know them inside out
5. Confirm your money affairs are pretty healthy as this career will drain you from the word go. Most actors are unemployed for much of the time, particularly after graduation
What to do after graduation
Having worked hard and graduated from acting school is only the start. You'll notice that job offers aren't landing on your doormat. You now have a need to find an agent to represent you and also to aid in building up your Cv so you are ready for your online job search. The agent will represent you and recommend you for roles, taking a commission of around 10%. But don't forget it is not a question of sitting back and waiting for the telephone to ring, you will need to get your face out there and get yourself known.
Look after your appearance and keep in good shape, after all you'll need a large amount of stamina for this job. Go to as many auditions as you can and do not be too proud to accept any 'extras ' work. Get involved in your local community, budget productions and plays. Subscribe to online versions of trade magazines like Hollywood Report and, if you can, subscribe to the actors union Equity. Watch a spread of films, attend film holidays and read all you can about the business. Network among friends and their buddies and just generally get yourself out there.
Informal approach
There is nothing to prevent you from creating your own content, filming it using whatever resources you have, and posting it on sites like YouTube to let the world know you have arrived.
Ultimately, be ready to take on other work while still chasing your acting career. Ensure you are well informed and attend as many short courses as you're able to afford, to keep your abilities well honed. Good luck!
As career coaching specialists we concentrate on career change and job search systems. If you help with your online job search get in touch!
Tags: Become and actor, Performing Arts
