Good books to start with might be Sanford Meisner on Acting written by Sanford Meisner and Dennis Longwell, or The Art Of Acting by Stella Adler. These books will help you learn about what to expect as an actor.
Quvenzhané Wallis in Beasts of the Southern Wild Peter Sellers in The Pink Panther Johnny Cash in Walk the Line Meryl Streep in The Devil Wears Prada
Many aspiring actors find jobs in the restaurant industry either serving or bartending. It is a great way to earn good money while allowing you the opportunity to switch shifts with another employee if you have a last minute audition, or only work during times that still allow you to go out for auditions.
If you truly want to be an actor, pack for your dream. Save up money for at least a year, and make sure that if you’re moving to L. A. , you have a car that works. [3] X Expert Source Jim JarrettActing Teacher Expert Interview. 28 April 2020.
Look for classes that teach you how to break down a script, create a truthful character, and show you how to have a strong and flexible body and voice. [5] X Research source
“What does a typical day look like for someone who is pursuing acting?” “How many times have you been rejected from an audition?” “How many auditions do you go on a week?” “How much money do I need to get started?” “Do you have any advice for someone who is just starting off”?
Film, TV on prime-time, or soap operas Television hosting Commercials Theatre
While they are expensive, you only need two great head shots to get started. Keep in mind, head shots range from $50-$1000, so be sure to do your research before going just anywhere. You don’t want to break the bank, but remember that you want to capture the attention of the casting director with your photos.
Current contact information so the casting or acting agent can contact you. List any acting memberships you may belong to. Explain the type of role you believe you are best fit for to better inform agents and recruiters about your type. For example, state if you want a leading role, supporting role, voice-over part, or a non-speaking role such as an extra or stunt-double. Include whether or not you can speak multiple languages. This may open you up to more acting parts.
Start your letter with a greeting, and explain your interest in the specific role. State where you went to school, what you are currently working on for your acting career, and what your goals are. This will show your commitment. Talk about your best acting accomplishments, or anything you are currently working on. This will show that you have skill and experience. [7] X Research source Suggest for them to take a look at your head shot and resume to get to know more about what type of actor you are. [8] X Research source
Try to find a franchised SAG agent. These agents often have more connections, and they can offer you more legitimate representation. [10] X Research source To find an agent, research agents online, and mark down the people you are interested in working with. You can read reviews about them, or look them up on the Better Business Bureau to see if they have had claims filed against them. [11] X Research source Once you find an agent you want to work with, set up a meeting, or send over your portfolio. Hopefully the agent you desire is interested in working with you. [12] X Research source Never pay an agent before you get a job.
Watch out for audition websites that require you to pay money to set up an account to find auditions. This might be a scam.
If you’re choosing monologues for auditions, choose at least two tonally contrasting ones that are infrequently performed and aren’t from iconic films. [14] X Expert Source Jim JarrettActing Teacher Expert Interview. 28 April 2020.
Do not touch any of the equipment or food at the audition. You are there as a guest, and you should be respectful of everything and everyone around you. Check your personal habits at the door. You should never smoke or chew gum during an audition, unless it is part of the role. After your audition, be sure to thank the casting director, and anyone else who helped make your audition possible.
While L. A. and Hollywood have a great reputation for actors to get started in their career, there are other places across the United States that have gained popularity among production companies such as New York, Chicago, New Mexico, Oregon, and Louisiana. [15] X Research source
If you are not sure about an audition, call your local SAG/AFTRA office, and express your concerns. They are very knowledgeable and will be able to provide you with sound advice.
Art colleges that have film programs allow students to post jobs at the school when they need actors for a school project. Try working on these roles for experience. Actors that are just starting out should not turn there noses away from small roles, or roles that they do not believe suit them well. Any job is a chance for you to practice your acting range and build skill and experience. You never know when one acting role may lead to another role for you.
When a casting director or acting instructor has advice for you, do not block out their suggestions and get offended. Truly listen to their critique, and ask them for advice on how to improve.
Realize that there may not have been anything wrong with your audition, but the casting directors may have had a very specific idea in mind, and you were not it. Just be patient, and keep auditioning. Acting is not for the faint of heart. When you feel overwhelmed, remind yourself that this is what most actors go through before they find work. Find emotional support by talking with fellow actors about their struggles and fears.
