Actors typically go on hundreds of auditions and only get called back for a few. When you’re new to acting, the auditions can be bigger learning experiences than actually getting cast for the role. Embrace the learning experience of each audition and ask for feedback from the casting directors. [1] X Research source For auditions, you should have two rock-solid, contrasting monologues that aren’t frequently performed. This means steering clear of monologues that pop up when you Google “best monologues. “[2] X Expert Source Jim JarrettActing Teacher Expert Interview. 28 April 2020. Look online for casting calls. There are a few reputable casting websites for TV, film, commercials, etc – backstage. com and projectcasting. com to name a few. There are also theater auditions on backstage. com. Look on your local theater websites for casting calls as well as Craigslist.
If you are cast for a role that completely goes against your morals or values, then you don’t have to take it. It is perfectly okay to turn down roles that make you feel uncomfortable. As your career progresses and your resume begins to come together, you can start to be more picky with the roles you play and the jobs you accept. Until then, get as much work as possible![3] X Research source
Many extra roles are posted in casting calls online, but you can also contact agencies who specialize in casting extra roles. You’ll need to provide them with your headshot and resume. You can contact these agencies by phone, email, or visiting in person. Look up the local casting agencies in your city.
Commit yourself to that class for at least six months, give yourself a chance to warm up to it. If you love it, then continue. After you’ve completed your first class, it’s recommended to take classes in other areas to see if you are interested in another type of acting. [6] X Research source
If you want to be in film or commercials, these are the acting methods you should study. Pick your favorite commercials or movie scenes and try to reenact them. If you want to get involved with theater or musicals, then study plays and musicals. Observe what the actors do right and what they can improve upon. Apply what you learn while watching them to your own acting.
If your hometown happens to be a major city, that’s fine! Focus your auditions in the community theater scene or the independent film scene. There are still small community theaters in big cities that will allow you to get some great experience. If you’ve decided you want to become a serious actor, moving to a major city would be the smart move for you to get the best training. Wait to make this move until you’ve decided you want to take acting to the next step. Make sure you ask yourself why you are willing to commit fully to being actor, and what you are willing to sacrifice over how long a period of time to get there. [9] X Expert Source Jim JarrettActing Teacher Expert Interview. 28 April 2020.
Next time the company holds auditions, do a monologue! You already know everyone in the room, so it’s the perfect place to start auditioning. They’ll most likely give you some good feedback as well. [10] X Research source
Headshots are needed for any type of acting; film, commercials, plays, musicals, etc. While it may be tempting to just have a friend take your headshot, anything more competitive than small commercial work will require something professional. A headshot is a critical part of your portfolio, and essentially functions as your calling card early in your career. [12] X Expert Source Jim JarrettActing Teacher Expert Interview. 28 April 2020.
Creating an online portfolio/resume is also important. As technology develops, some directors prefer to look at your credentials online as opposed to a printed resume. Fill out portfolios on multiple casting websites, you never know who may come across your resume.
You should have your reel available online and in hard copies. Hire a professional to make your reel for you. It’s an important marketing tool, so your reel should look polished. Update your reel every time you get new footage. You want your reel to be the best possible representation of you, so keep it updated. [14] X Research source
You can still play roles outside of your type, but knowing and mastering your type is a great way to break into the industry.
As a new actor, you don’t need a talent agent or manager right away. Talent agents and managers are beneficial once you have a good amount of experience under your belt and a fairly impressive resume. Network with different talent agents and stay in touch with them as you build your resume – if they’re impressed by you, they may be interested in working with you down the line. [17] X Research source
Ask your actor friends, teachers, or anyone else you know in the industry for some recommendations of good agents. If they have any personal connections with good agents, ask them if they’d be able to refer you to them. Agents get tons of headshots and resumes sent to them daily, so don’t be upset if you don’t hear back. You should submit yourself to many different agents or agencies, as this will increase your chances of getting a response. If no agents get back to you, consider revamping your resume and getting new headshots taken. [19] X Research source
