Although being ambitious about your future is encouraging, the Acting industry requires more than just that.
The realisation of wanting to pursue this profession can begin for people in different ways. For some it’s from childhood, others it occurs on a Monday morning Drama class, and for many the beginning starts by watching an awe-inspiring performance on TV or in the cinema.
But before you begin practicing your autographs in your science class, consider why you want to act. Is it for the “craft” of that aspect of performance or is it for the accolades and fame? If it’s for the latter, then unfortunately you have to be hit with a dose of reality. While it is rightfully encouraged to reach for the stars, you also have to keep your head out of the clouds and be realistic.
Ask yourself these questions…
Why do you really want to be an Actor?
Who is your favourite Actor/Actress? Why?
What are you willing to sacrifice to become an Actor?
Where do you envision your Acting career being in 10 years time?
If the first question is tricky, have a look at Oscar-winning-Actress Kate Winslet’s answer:
But we all can’t be the next Kate Winslet so take this into consideration:
• Entering the profession is really difficult, but not impossible. Persistence and dedication is key.
• This is a seriously overcrowded profession– with a huge amount of competition. The leading UK casting directory of actors, lists over 30,000 people.
• You have to expect a lot of rejection, so you really have to be thick-skinned if after your 32nd audition you don’t get the job.
• After your 34th audition you may get a job, but the next job that comes after is never guaranteed.
• Before receiving those million dollar contracts for a big blockbuster, there will be many many poorly paid (and even free) acting jobs. TV and Film work at first can be scarce, so to get your C.V going you may need to do unpaid projects at your local theatre.
• Unfortunately there are more opportunities for men than women in this profession. And it’s even trickier for people from ethnic backgrounds, but this is always changing and getting better, so do not feel too discouraged about that reality.
• Although Talent is vital, networking is just as important. There is no room for shy characters, you truly and honestly you have to put yourself out there (but don’t be outrageous!).
• Being in the right place at the right time is one of the most challenging aspects of this profession. A lot of things are down to luck, so that is something you will have to expect and thrive on. You could meet a casting director and if you’re prepared with your details and C.V, opportunities can begin arriving.
If you truly love acting, you will not give up. You will work 2 regular jobs to fund your acting class, you will prepare 2-page monologues for your audition the next day, you will work hard! And do you know why? Because being an Actor means more to you than just the praise. If you just want the acclaim you don’t want to be an actor, you’re more delving into wanting to be a celebrity, two very different things. It’s the experience, the work, the love of the craft, the people you get to meet on this rollercoaster that will keep you well seated on this unstable ride. If it’s a job that gets you excited and happy to wake up, however early it may be, then its worth the risk.
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