How to Become an Actor or Actress

To be a successful actor you really have to have a passion for the craft and the patience to wait for the big break. Although being an actor is extremely rewarding, finding work can be a challenge. The profession requires great commitment and fortitude.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Acting Classes
• Resumé software
• Resumé paper

1. Decide whether you want to be a professional actor (addressed here) or an amateur. If you want to be a professional, read on.

2. Move to a major city. Eventually, New York or Los Angeles will be your destination, but as you build your resumé of experience you can work in other major metropolitan areas that have good theater or film communities.

3. Enroll in acting class. Good actors study their entire lives. To choose a good class, ask trusted, successful professionals for references.

4. Get a headshot (see "How to Get a Headshot," under Related eHows).

5. Compose a resumé of all the work you have done so far. As your body of work grows, drop the less professional work (such as school plays) from your resumé.

6. Send your headshot and resumé with a brief cover letter to all the casting directors and agents in your area. Follow up with postcards every four to six months, updating them on your current acting projects.

7. Read the trade papers regularly: "Backstage," "Dramalogue," "The Ross Reports" and "Variety," as well as online publications such as newenglandfilm.com, as appropriate. Know what is being cast where, and send headshots and notes directly to directors and producers whenever possible, requesting auditions.

8. Always accept invitations to industry events and parties, and meet industry professionals whenever possible. Who you know is extremely important.

9. Persevere.

Tips & Warnings

• Acting is a tough business; make sure your personality is suited for the ups and downs. If not, amateur theater is also a good way to practice your craft.
• Ignore negative clichés about actors and the entertainment business.
• Be skeptical of shady services offered to actors; there are many scams that prey on the dreams of actors.

Resources

• New England Film.com

[dladki]

on 11/20/2009 good straight forward advice

[actressgal09]

on 11/16/2009 hi! I'm 20 years old and ever since I was a little girl I've wanted to become an actress, the problem is I'm from Mexico, so I can't go live to LA or NY, do you have any tips or advice you could give me? I appreciate it! thanks(:

[Diablo2]

on 10/25/2009 Very good article, thanks!

[dress4less]

on 10/11/2009 This is a great article. I am a working actress and loved your tips! Please visit my article on to become an actress in 30 days or less at http://www.ehow.com/video_5518120_become-actress-days-less.html

[jessicax250]

on 10/2/2009 This article is great for getting anyone started if this is thier dream...well done!