Even the biggest stars started as Background Cowboy Number Three. But they knew how to stand out.

Step 1: Pick your moment

Figure out when your best chance or chances to stand out will be—lines or interactions with principal characters are ideal, but anything that’s in-focus will do.

Step 2: Judge your strengths

Judge your own strengths. Do you have expressive eyes? An interesting voice? A commanding physical presence? You’re going to want to make a strong impression, and knowing what to emphasize will help.

Step 3: Create a character

Create a character. Even if you’re a nameless passerby, give yourself a persona; it will help you become your role.

Step 4: Show enthusiasm

Show enthusiasm. That means staying excited, not being irritatingly peppy.

Step 5: Stand out in a crowd

Act just a little differently than everyone else in the scene. Don’t be distracting, but have a unique mannerism that will draw some attention to you.

Step 6: Become your character

Think about the back story you’ve created for your role during your big moment; it will help you behave in character.

Step 7: Be ready to step in

Be ready to step in if something unexpected should happen, especially in a play. Saving a scene during a missed cue or other mishap just may give you the big break you’ve been waiting for.