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How To Become An Actor: The Best Way To Become An Actor
9th September 2021
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9th September 2021
Are you waiting in the wings to become an actor? If you answered yes, then you should probably keep reading as we’re about to reveal how to become an actor.
With our help, you might just become the next Carey Mulligan or Riz Amhed.
An actor is someone who’s profession is acting on the stage, in films, or on television.
An actor’s role is to effectively communicate the character they are playing to an audience by using their voice, body, actions and reactions.
Actors work to portray a character, typically in a film, play or TV show, but that’s not all there is to this thrilling and exciting job.
The main responsibilities of an actor include:
Having a good memory will be helpful but spending time memorizing and practicing is essential in acting.
The more research you do on your character, the play and the playwright, the more you’ll feel connected to them and be able to give the most authentic performance.
Naturally, the more you rehearse, the more comfortable you’ll feel on stage and know exactly what you’re doing. Costume fittings are also important to avoid any wardrobe malfunctions whilst acting and so that you can get used to wearing your costume or props prior to performing.
Taking direction well and picking things up quickly are both qualities every good actor should possess.
Unless you’re performing a monologue, it’s highly likely you’ll be working with other performers. Therefore, rehearsals are vital, so everyone knows what they’re doing and can work together and bring out the best performance in each other.
Technical rehearsals as the name suggests, focus on the technological aspects of the performance. It’s also a brilliant opportunity for the actors to get used to the lighting, music and all the technical elements of the performance. Dress rehearsals are often the most important rehearsal as they are usually the final rehearsal of a live show, in which everything is done as it would be in a real performance.
Whether performing live to an audience in a theatre or being filmed to be watched by audiences around the world, you will be performing to an audience so bear this in mind with everything you do.
Here are a few ways to get the ball rolling to become an actor:
Do you need qualifications to become an actor? Whilst there are no education requirements for actors—formal training can be really helpful and most actors working today will have received some sort of training along the way.
There are a few different ways you can train to become an actor including acting classes, on-set coaches, online courses and an acting degree. Which option will suit you best will depend on several factors, including your age and experience level and whether you’re looking to make it on-stage or on-screen.
With that being said, one of the most beneficial ways to train as an actor and gain qualifications is by taking an acting degree. During the course, you’ll make friends and industry contacts, instil the value of hard work and allow you to further hone your craft.
Here are a few of the top rated drama schools in the UK:
You might be wondering, how much does it cost to become an actor? Most acting schools cost around £9k per year, for example LAMDA charges £9,250 per year for their 3-year course.
Don’t panic though if education isn’t for you, as there are plenty of ways you can become an actor without qualifications, read on!
If education is not your cup of tea, don’t worry as there are many ways you can become an actor without qualifications.
For example, you could:
Intern
You could intern at acting schools, talent management agencies or casting companies to work with and be surrounded by actors and industry professionals. Think about ways to get your foot in the door so that you can rise up through the ranks.
Sign Up To Casting Websites
Signing up to online-casting websites such as Star Now, Mandy and Backstage will give you access to auditions and casting calls which you could apply for. The more roles you get, the more experience you gain so it’s a brilliant idea to get into acting via this route.
Find Local Acting Classes
Research acting classes in your city, this is a perfect way to network, gain confidence and develop your acting skills.
Reach Out To Casting Directors Or Other Actors
Don’t be afraid to send an email, asking for some advice or a coffee with a casting director or actor that you admire as you never know where the conversation could lead!
Bring down the curtain! Now you know everything about how to become an actor, from what actors do to what qualifications you could gain. We wish you every success in your acting career and hope to be in the audience at one of your performances one day.
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