Actors can find work in cities across the country.
The acting profession is very competitive, and it's important to put yourself in a position to audition and be seen by casting agents. This may require you to move to a different city after being educated and trained as an actor. Career opportunities for actors are available in television, films, musical theatre, commercials, instructional videos and stage plays.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is home to numerous television and movie production companies, which offer various career opportunities for actors. While actors can receive extensive training at the University of Southern California or University of California, Los Angeles, there are also a number of acting schools and coaches that can prepare individuals for a career in acting. Actors in the Los Angeles can use the publication "Backstage" to find out about upcoming auditions in the area and see what television shows and movies are going into production.
New York, NY
Although film and television work is available in New York City, many of the actors working in the area focus on theatre. In addition to the numerous shows on Broadway, there are a vast number of Off-Broadway and Off-Off-Broadway opportunities for actors. Off-Broadway and Off-Off-Broadway shows generally have a lower production budget and don't pay actors the same scale as a Broadway show. Professional training is available at New York University, The New School and Julliard; there are also a number of two-year conservatories, including the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and American Musical and Dramatic Academy.
Austin, TX
While acting jobs may be less available outside of New York and Los Angeles, that doesn't mean there aren't cities throughout the country that host movie productions and offer television opportunities. According to ''Movie Maker Magazine," in 2008, Austin was the number one place for actors to live, work and make movies. Because of the city's financial incentives and low-cost facilities, many independent films are being shot in Austin. In order to save money on transportation and lodging, directors and producers look for local talent in the area.
