Many of us would "like" to be in a movie or a show, etc. But we have no experience, no talent agents, no nothing. We're not even sure if we're that great actors/actresses, though everyone else keeps on telling us so. And even if we were to think we were great, it seems to risky to just jump out, get an agent and start going to auditions when you think you'll regret it later thinking, "god, I should have looked for a decent job/worked up with my grades then."
So how did the actors/actresses really get on their career? I know you need good theater roles around your belt, etc, but even those people start wishing to become TV/screen actors/actresses later.
For me, I'm really interested in acting and singing, but I know that it's very risky and would rather pursue another career. However, I would also very much like to do acting/singing as a secondary career. Or is that impossible?
2007-10-09 11:37:06 · 4 answers · asked by meh 2 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Theater & Acting
Honestly, Luck. Combined with some skill and experience of course. It's really all being in the right place at the right time. My mother is a casting director, and she has agencies sending her hundreds and hundreds of headshots of models and actor/actresses. You need to get good headshots and make sure you have good facial expressions. Also, I would suggest taking some acting classes so you really know some of what you need to do. Go to as many open casting roles as possible. It's only by chance that you get discovered.
Hope that helps,
Good Luck!
2007-10-09 11:48:40 · answer #1 · answered by dcmattco 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Most of them work hard for it. They want it bad and they work hard for it. It's not easy and besides having luck and talent really, you have to have everything else in place for luck to be able to play it's part. You also have to be likeable. The casting director is not going to hire a diva. If you're already a problem when you're no one to speak of then why should they bother with you? Be early to your appointments, be nice to everyone, and know your stuff (be prepared). Besides that you have to be exactly what they're looking for. You could be the most talented person in the world but if they want a 6' 2" brunette and you're blonde then you may be out of luck. Of course I know you could dye your hair, but that's besides the point. As the guy who's mother is a casting agent could probably tell you, CD's put out a breakdown (description) of what they're looking for. Agents send headshots for those of their clients that fit those descriptions and if the casting director thinks they fit the bill then an audition is set up. From there it's up to the actor to be prepared and impress. You need to show the CD that you understand the show and the role and that you bring that something special to it and only you can bring it to life. Then maybe you will be chosen for a callback and get to meet the producers.
What most successful actors have is that something intangible that makes people feel drawn to them. A chemistry that aside from their talent as a performer makes people when they meet them in person want more. They also tend to be more driven (atleast in the begining) because they want it so bad. No amount of being turned down will deter them. They keep going where others go back home to Kansas. They take it seriously. They took classes, they trained, or they had such natural ability that they never did go to class. Most are very smart whether or not they did well in school. Some failed due to boredome. Others are MENSA members. Do you get what I'm saying?
Guess I'm babbling now? :-)
2007-10-09 12:16:12 · answer #2 · answered by Marianne D 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I know absolutely nothing about the profession. However, I do enjoy watching "Inside the Actors Studio". This show interviews actors/actresses/directors/producers/singers/writers/etc. They begin the hour-or two hour long interview, speaking of the artist childhood, ambition, drive, education, influences, and work their way up to their latest success. Hollywood scripted? Possibly, however, I enjoy it. Maybe an episode or two will give you some ideas. On a side note, if you subscribe to Netflix, you can rent some of these episodes. Good Luck in your career.
2007-10-09 13:02:16 · answer #3 · answered by credit_and_scores 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you live in a city where there is a market for actors, such as Los Angeles or New York City, you audition as often as you find auditions that are "right," for you.
In NYC and L.A. we have SoapOperas where actors can use hone acting skills.
In other cities, there is Community Theater, where actors have the benefit of performing on stage and may be seen by the "right person."
2007-10-09 11:51:23 · answer #4 · answered by newyorkgal71 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋