The Basics on how to Start an Acting Career

By Kimberly Schmidt


Don't believe for a moment that it's easy to make it in show business. For every working actor you see on the big screen, there are countless others either unemployed or scratching out a meager existence. Resumes, headshots and agents are all well and good, but there's so much more to making a success of being an actor. But here you can learn how to start an acting career. Research talent agencies, looking for a business that will help you but not take your money.

Seek out books on acting techniques so you'll be aware that there are many methods that will help you sustain gripping performances throughout a career. You should understand how acting classes are run to make an informed choice when looking to enroll at a school.

Learn the basics of business because, as a freelance professional, you have to know what it takes to impress agents, casting directors, producers and directors. Begin collating a portfolio by getting headshots (commercial and dramatic), writing a resume, a cover letter, and preparing at least two monologues -- one comical, one dramatic. Doing all this will convey how you want to be seen as an actor, so take particular care to portray a consistent and appropriate image.

Income can be minimal when you start out, so you need to be financially sound before embarking on an acting career. If you don't have a large bank balance but want to pursue acting full-time, you'll need a sponsor to support you so you can focus on moving your career forward without being worried over rent. If you choose to be part-time, find an indulgent boss that will be OK with you taking time off.

Experience is important, so gain small parts on major film productions, work as an extra on TV, or secure meatier roles with independent movies. Don't forget to check out community theatre or low-budget theatre as any work will help you grow as an actor, and possibly give you a small income, too.

You'll need an agent now. Try contacting them through meet-and-greets, showcases, forums with casting directors and agents that allow for auditions and personal chats, auditions at school seminars, or ask them to watch a movie or television show you're in or a show in which you're performing. Even send out masses of mail to agents and make follow-up calls. Do your homework on talent agencies to find one that's licensed and has been around for a number of years.

An actor never stops learning and developing, honing their ability to cold read or working on monologues. But it's imperative to understand how to promote yourself as a commodity worth paying for if you aim to get past the first steps of how to start an acting career.




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