How to Use a Dialect Coach

The good news: You're up for a role in a major motion picture working with a notable director. The dilemma: The character speaks with a specific dialect that you'll have to use convincingly. The solution: Train with a dialect coach until you sound like one of the region's native speakers.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Find a reputable coach who specializes in the dialect you need to learn. Get recommendations from fellow actors or professional associations. Study each coach's teaching methods and testimonials through their brochures or websites.

2. Determine whether you'd like to attend sessions in person or those held over the phone. Call-in sessions may be more convenient and allow you to work with a coach in another state. In office sessions, you'll hear sounds more clearly and see the coach's expression as they're pronounced.

3. Trust your coach's methods. Some may find native speakers with the dialect you desire and record their grammar, word choice and accent, while others may learn the dialect for you to mimic or use tapes of actors who used the accent in previous movies.

4. Use your script at each session to study the way your character would say each line. Practice the cadence of the words in addition to tone and accent.

5. Listen to tapes of each session to improve weak spots.

6. Practice by visiting an area frequented by people who speak with the dialect or by calling someone who lives in the region. Find a person who's willing to listen and comment on your authenticity or simply listen to their manner of speaking to see how on target you are.

7. Write a testimonial once you land the role. List the movie, part, dialect and how your coach helped you succeed—the information will help other actors in their quest for reliable assistance.