If there’s one thing we know about show business, it’s that there are multiple paths to becoming an actor. Take Octavia Spencer, who spent years in minor and supporting roles before finding fame and an Oscar; or Jonathan Groff, a two-time Tony nominee who booked his first national tour from Backstage’s casting notices; or Aaron Paul, a three-time Emmy winner who was “discovered” at an acting and modeling competition after moving from Idaho to Los Angeles.
Where performers make the greatest money is mostly determined by their expertise, roles, and geographic location. Pay is often greater in locations where the performing arts are dominant than in rural areas or areas far away from production sites. Aspiring actors can use this tool to explore typical salaries by location.
How to become an actor?
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to becoming an actor or actress. However, the following are the five most frequent steps for anyone interested in pursuing a career in show business:
1. Become an actor by training. Actors do not need to have a formal degree, although training is a wonderful place to start. Consider acquiring a BFA or MFA in theatre or attending summer programs if you’re a student; otherwise, most people should take local acting classes.
2. Get a headshot, an acting résumé, and a demo reel ready. These materials are frequently required by casting directors before they will consider you for parts.
3. Attend casting calls and auditions. You can locate these early in your career through word of mouth and online casting networks like Backstage.
4. Improve your résumé and reel by gaining experience. You’ll get a better video for your reel—and better parts to include on your résumé—as you audition and land additional opportunities.
5. Obtain the services of an agent. The acting experience you’ve gained will aid you in impressing an agent and obtaining representation. With an agency on your side, you’ll be able to take on bigger projects and take on more challenging jobs.
Acting classes can be taken in a university or an arts academy. Though acting without a formal degree is conceivable, if you don’t live in LA or New York, this is the most common route. You’ll be exposed to professionals, learn about techniques, and have the opportunity to work on a stage on a regular basis. This will also aid in the development of your resume, exposure, and the establishment of a network of colleagues and contacts. Your lecturers will consistently push you to accomplish more, effectively handling the motivation aspect for you.
Being a professional actor does not necessitate attending acting school. You may be the next big thing if you keep practicing and honing your craft.
In later sections of this tutorial, we’ll go through each of these processes in greater depth—keep reading for additional industry tips on how to make a demo reel and contact an agency.
Where performers make the greatest money is mostly determined by their expertise, roles, and geographic location. Pay is often greater in locations where the performing arts are dominant than in rural areas or areas far away from production sites. Aspiring actors can use this tool to explore typical salaries by location.
