Train to Become an Actress
Acting is one of the hardest businesses to train and break into. However, for many people it is not a simple choice but instead a passionate calling. To skillfully inhabit the persona of another character, to portray grief, humor and joy in a way that moves and audience is something that only a few people dare attempt. The road to becoming a part of theater can be very difficult but with the right attitude and training you can set yourself a part from your peers and reach success.
Instructions
1. Find a teacher that you trust and respect. This is very important. In all reality, it does not matter if you have a degree in theater or film acting. What matters is experience and skill. Find a teacher that brings out the qualities in your acting that you admire the most and then stick with it. Train hard, and follow her advice. Make your education and training your number one priority.
2. Get as much exposure as you can. If there is a local theater or university, audition for every available show. The best way to grow is to apply the knowledge you have learned through training on stage with other actors. Check website listings on Craigslist, for example, to find short films or student film projects. This can give you much needed training in front of a camera.
3. Put together a media packet. You are slowly becoming your own small business. The product you are selling is yourself and you need a press packet as well as samples of your work to move ahead. Save any positive reviews of your acting and put this in your press packet. You may also consider making a DVD compilation of your film and television performances. This is known as a "reel." You will also need a head shot and copies that you can hand out to casting agents.
4. Move to an industry city. If you are interested in pursuing theater as opposed to film you need to move to New York or possibly Chicago. Both cities have a vibrant professional theater community. If you are interested in film, then Los Angeles is your best bet. A large number of film and television studios are located in Los Angeles and it has the highest concentration of paid film and television work in North America. However, cities like Toronto, Canada, and Dallas are starting to emerge as budding film cities.
5. Stay positive and focus on your career. Breaking into acting is difficult and will require a great deal of patience and willpower. However, having a positive outlook helps you stay motivated to keep trying. You will face alot of rejection simply due to the numbers involved. There are a great deal of people auditioning for each role in a professional theatrical production or film and only a select few slots. Don't take rejection personally. This will immediately set you apart from your competition.
