How to Become a Professional Actor

The Actor

Many people aspire to become a professional actor and see their name in lights. The draw of stardom, fame and fortune is hard to resist, but can also offer a lofty goal. While the dream of becoming a star is fine, becoming a professional, working actor will help pay the bills and allow you to hone your skills for that big audition which may catapult your career into the big time. Becoming a professional actor doesn't require any special degree or certification, but it will require some dedication and time. Taking time to plan your strategy will greatly improve your chance of becoming a professional actor.

Things You'll Need

• Agent (optional)

Instructions

1. Investigate your options. While the possibility of reaching stardom seems to be every actor's dream, becoming a professional actor can take many different directions. Some alternative areas in which professional actors can often find success include voice-overs, radio, commercials, cartoons, corporate productions and teaching. While these professions don't always offer the same appeal as being a movie star, the options are much more realistic and can offer a decent living until that big break comes along. Take time to read industry publications and talk with other actors to get a feel for a field that might interest you.

2. Educate yourself. To become a talented professional actor, take time to learn about the craft and its history. If possible, take professional acting classes from an individual or through a local college. Although it may seem a simple task to walk up on stage and act, there are many other aspects that make up a single performance. For example, professional actors may be required to learn accents, speak different languages, emulate certain behaviors, control their emotions or perform physical tasks. In addition, skills such as camera presentation, blocking and screen presence will play a part in any role. Although it's impossible to know what the next part might require, some basic acting education will provide a solid starting point.

3. Get involved. As an inexperienced actor, finding that first job may prove to be a long process. To get a foot in the door, consider getting involved in local or community theater. This is a great way to gain some acting experience and become involved in the business. If an onstage part isn't available, offer to work backstage or as part of the technical crew. This will get you in the door and make your name more recognizable to directors when the next production gets under way. Open casting calls for bit parts are also a great way to get experience and learn the business.

4. Network. Success in any business is often aided by who you know, in addition to business skills. Seek out acting groups, clubs or professional organizations to help expand your circle of professional acquaintances. These organizations often print newsletters with valuable information, host parties or gatherings, or provide membership lists that can prove invaluable for networking. Make a point of keeping in touch with other actors in an effort to keep current on industry news and share tips on auditions or acting opportunities.

5. Find a job. As the ultimate goal is to find a professional acting job, make an effort to look for acting work on a daily basis. Scan industry publications, websites and newspapers for possible opportunities that might fit your skills. Even if you don't match the requirements exactly, consider requesting an audition anyway. You may be just the right look or type of actor for the part, so a lack of skill may be overlooked. Also, don't overlook parts such as commercial bits, training films, or low budget productions as a way to make money and gain some experience. Independent productions have always provided a wealth of opportunities for actors willing to work for little money or the experience only.

Tips & Warnings

• Historical or haunted ghost tours often employ professional actors to add an authentic touch to the tour. Check out theme parks such as Disney World or Busch Gardens for jobs in theater productions or as a character cast member. It may not be glamorous, but it's still acting experience and a paycheck. Study successful actors to pick up tips. Read industry magazines and newspapers for open casting calls for extras. While you won't make a lot of money, a bit part will add to your resume and may qualify you for a Screen Actors Guild membership. Investigate joining an actor's union or other professional association to boost your credentials.

• Never pay an agent or manager to help you find a job. If they ask for money, it's probably a scam.

References

• Screen Actors Guild
• Variety Magazine
• Backstage, The Actors Resource