How to Have a Career in Acting
Do you dream of seeing your name in lights? Follow these steps if you're serious about an acting career.
Up next in How to Be an Actor (29 videos)
Attention, aspiring actors and actresses! Break into show business with the tips in these Howcast video.
You Will Need
- A passion for acting
- Talent
Steps
-
Step 1
Take classes
Take lessons and classes in acting, voice, dance, and movement to hone and practice skills.
-
Step 2
Write your acting resume
Develop a resume of acting experience. Include professional, amateur, or student productions plus degrees and acting classes.
-
Step 3
Get a head shot
Get an 8-by-10 photo of yourself done by an experienced professional photographer.
-
Step 4
Prepare for auditions
Practice reading scripts for stage and screen auditions, and practice singing for musical theater tryouts.
-
Learn how to handle performance anxiety. You'll deal with nerves more effectively if you know what to expect.
-
Step 5
Gain experience
Go to lots of auditions. If you haven't acted before, start with amateur productions. Then go out for bigger roles.
-
A part-time or day job will allow you to concentrate on acting.
-
Step 6
Consider an agent
Consider hiring an agent. Agents find work, book auditions, and negotiate contracts for a percentage of the actor's pay.
-
Thespis was the first actor in Greek drama.
