what's the best way to start a career in acting?

Question

Deep down I've always wanted a creative, interesting career such as acting. I love the idea of working really hard on something, such as a performance, and presenting it to people for them to enjoy. But, not growing up in the industry makes in seem like an unattainable goal. Plus, I'm almost 24, is it too late?

Answer 1

It's never too late! I've known people who have retired from civilian jobs in their 60's and THEN started successful acting careers.

I don't know where you live, but the larger markets (NYC, LA, Chicago) will have more work. They'll also have more competition. There is a tremendous amount of work in regional theatre. Nearly every market in the country has a local access cable TV station. Contact them to see if they are doing any casting for commercials, voice-overs, TV news readers, whatever.

If you've never studied acting, do get a few classes under your belt. This will point you in the right direction and give you confidence. Personal recommendations are always best, so ask your friends if any of them have studied with a teacher you might be considering. You might also contact your local community college theatre department, or the arts council in your area. Very often, you can find affordable classes.

Get the best headshots you can afford. This is so important. Don't waste your time and money letting someone take your pictures because they happen to have a good camera. This is a very specialized skill and you need to find a photographer who knows the requirements for actors. Ask to see her/his book. And don't over-glamorize yourself in your photos, thinking this will get you more work. You need to look like yourself on a good day - fresh, well-groomed, happy, upbeat and awake. If you can't recreate your headshot look exactly in half an hour, they've done too much to you. You can even do your own hair and makeup if you're skilled. (most girls are)

Get a publication called The Ross Reports. This lists all the casting directors and agents by area. (You can get it online) Also check out Backstage or Backstage West if you are closer to LA. You also might want to get the Regional Theatre Guide. (You'll probably have to order this online) It's a big book that lists every regional theatre in the country, with details about their past and current seasons, casting requirements, contacts, etc.

After you've gotten some local work, try finding an agent. Sometimes there are local talent agents; try looking in the Yellow Pages. Be aware, though, that talent agents are only allowed by law to charge you 10% of your earnings. If they tell you otherwise, they are probably a personal manager. That's a different story. Managers are not bound by any governing body, so they can charge whatever they want. Probably the most famous case of a manager taking advantage of a client was Col. Parker and Elvis. The scum took 50% of every dollar that Elvis ever made. Everytime Elvis tried to fire him, he gave him a routine about how Elvis owed him everything. (Parker is still collected from Elvis!) Make sure you don't sign any contracts unless you have a lawyer look them over. If someone asks you to sign something and refuses to let your lawyer take a look at it, walk away.

Eventually, you may want to make you way to one of the major markets. But you don't have to. There's a lot of work between the coasts. Much of it is non-union, but you can still make a living at it. Many of the shows now on TV are non-union. As a proud union member, this is disheartening and frustrating to me, but it does afford a lot of work to a lot of actors.

So there you have it - easy! Not really. Nothing worthwhile is ever easy. If this is something you really love, and you're good (that's important), you should be able to do it. It's a valid, honorable profession, just like any other. Break a leg!

Answer 2

Create Your Successful Acting Business!

Answer 3

I agree you should start getting involved as soon as you can -- but it's not necesary to live in or near L.A. to have a career. Many actors have satisfactory careers throughout the nation. It's even possible to make it your "career' without making it your "job."

I'm guessing you don't have too much experience so far. The best first place to get started is to learn as much as you can about theatre: by attending productions, perhaps working on a production in a non-performing capacity so that you can see how it's all put together. If you can't afford classes, read plays, practice parts of them... especially ones that are NOT like you. If you have a university that offers community classes, you might see if there isn't one in acting, or voice, or dance -- they're all part of the package.

Answer 4

No it's not too late but you shouldn't waste anymore time. Find a way to support yourself while you audition and take classes.

Move to LA- that's where the work is. Live near Hollywood, that's where the auditions are.

Realize it takes about 10 years to get established and working steadily unless you are VERY lucky. You have to make your career the most important thing in your life until you are successful.

If you can live without it you should and just do community plays for a hobby.

Answer 5

For the most part, acting, or any caree in showbusiness, is an unattainable goal.

Acting requires years of hard work of acting school, most of us started acting in elementary school, junior high, senior high and then college. I volunteered at a professional theater in high school.

It takes many years of study to be a great actor. You did not say where you live.

I suggest you contact the community colleges in your city and ask if they teach acting classes (that way you can find out if acting is for you.) Also, contact the community theaters and regional theatres in your vicinity and ask if you can be a volunteer. That way you will see, from the inside out, what acting and theater is all about.

It's hard work and long hours. You need years of training and lots of luck on your side. It helps if you also, sing and dance.

If you live in a major city, ask around about acting classes. If you have actor friends, they can guide.

Good luck and have fun.

Answer 6

No idea.. im trying to do the same for Pittsburgh.. just get a booking agent and audition like crazy soon you as an actor will grow, and agents come to professional theater plays doesnt mean it has to be broadway, but trust me just audition for parts that you think will make you successful..

Answer 7

It will break your heart. There are thousands of good looking talented people and room for about 10 big name stars