Aspiring to Be a Professional Actor: Starting from Small Roles in High School
Acting is a rewarding career for many people, and you might be wondering if you can turn your passion for acting into a professional career. Even if you've only been in small roles in high school, the path to becoming a professional actor is still within your reach.
Starting from Scratch
Yes! It’s good that you already have some familiarity with acting and a foundation to build off of, but remember—you’re still at the starting line. This means that you need to continue to practice your craft, study great actors, build up a resume, and network with people in the industry. The path to becoming a professional actor is difficult, but if you love acting and are absolutely determined to see it through, anything is possible!
Opportunities Abound
Actually, you have more experience in this than half of the current "stars." Each year, more than 800 movies with budgets over $250,000 are made, and the same number of different TV shows are produced. Be bold, continue to practice and study, and use every opportunity. Soon you'll find out that there's a lot of room for you in this industry.
Building a Foundation
Success in the acting world often starts with finding the best acting class you can find. Learning the craft and honing your skills will significantly improve your chances of making your mark. Joining local theater groups and making your own film projects can also help you build your experience. Engage actively in the theater and film communities wherever you are. Keep learning and practicing.
The Path to Professional Acting
Building a career as a professional actor is a lifelong commitment. If you love acting, keep going. If you discover that acting is not your passion and you prefer to do it as a hobby, that's perfectly fine. Whether you end up as a professional actor or not, the journey is yours to take and enjoy.
Getting Started in Film and Television
Yes, you can become a professional actor with zero acting experience in film and television. The difference with theater is that there is rarely a stage play that actually generates revenue. Theater relies on monied institutions such as colleges and foundations for the arts. This is where 'Birdman' accurately portrays the theater world.
For film and television, you need a resume, and experience will of course help. However, the important thing is to provide us with basic information such as your measurements, a photograph that showcases your unique qualities, and any special skills or experiences. Even a tailored jacket can be a major asset in your portfolio.
Acting is the only profession where everything matters. So, bring your unique story—and your jacket—to the table. We are waiting for you!
Conclusion:
No matter where you are starting from, remember that persistence and dedication are key. From small roles in high school to becoming a professional actor, the journey is filled with opportunities and challenges. Stay true to your passion, and the rest will fall into place.