So, you've decided you want to be an actor. What can you expect?

First of all, you have to realize a couple of things:
1. The road is going to be very tough, and likely very long. There is tons of competition in this business, and most people will work for years before they get a break. If you think you're going to decide to be an actor one day and be working the next, you shouldn't be doing this because it just doesn't work that way. You need to take lots of classes and really bust your butt if you want to get anywhere as an actor.
2. You'll be able to do it if you really work at it and you believe you'll make it. The actors who suceed are the ones who worked really hard and didn't give up. There will be tons of obstacles to overcome, but as long as you meet all of them head-on and don't let them stop you, you will get there.

What kind of look do you need?

Sadly, it *does* help to be attractive, but it certainly isn't a requirement. There is room for every type in this business - braces, scars, a little extra weight, anything - so don't let that be a roadblock for you. You may have to work a little harder to find opportunities, but don't give up on yourself.

In fact, a lot of shows look for people that are as "everyday" as possible. For example, Unsolved Mysteries hired only actors who look like "regular" or "everyday" people to preserve the realness of the show. And, the Nickelodeon show Goosebumps does the same thing, in order to make it so that kids who watch it feel like they could be part of the show. And, since there is a "reality" trend going on now, "everyday" people have more of a chance than ever.

Having said that, it is still in your best interest to play up your best features, take care of yourself, and appear presentable at all times. If you're not comfy with an aspect of your body, work on it, because any insecurities you have will only stand in your way.

Is there a specific personality that you need to have?

For the most part, it doesn't really matter what your personality is like. However, it's a good idea to have a little confidence, and be able to talk to people with ease. If you're interested in commercials, a bubbly personality is pretty much a must, but overall, the only rule that stands is to be the better part of yourself. No one likes fake people, but if you have a nasty temper, I suggest you learn to control it or your chances of getting roles will decrease. Just remember that bad reputations travel much faster than good ones.

You're going to need to be cooperative, easy to work with, and agreeable, but not someone that gets walked over. Don't jeopardize your beliefs and morals just to get a role.

You must listen at all times to what's being said, because no one will hire someone who doesn't listen to, and follow, instructions.

What do you do to get started?

The best thing to do when you decide you'd like to act is to take a class. Every good actor trains - including some of the big names you see in movies all the time. It's a great way to build up your resume, meet new people who could help you later in your career, and to improve your skills. See the Acting Classes section for information about what to look for.

It's also a great idea to get involved with theater, whether it be at school or in a local theater. There is no better way to learn than by doing, and plays really teach you how to create a character and how to use your body. It's also another great way to meet people in the industry.

So many people who write to me want to know how they can skip the classes/theater step and go straight into film and television, but this really isn't a good idea. It's not impossible, but you must realize that you'll be up against thousands of other actors who have been training all their lives, so guess who'll have the skills when it comes right down to the wire? It certainly won't be the actor who skipped the training. I strongly recommend that all actors work on their craft as much as possible.

How do you find theater auditions?

The best way is to call the theaters in your area, and ask when they hold auditions for their productions. While you have them on the phone, you can also ask if they offer classes - many of them do. Also keep an eye in the newspaper for audition listings. Many cities have Fringe Festivals or other theater events and will advertise their auditions in the paper, or even on the radio.

If you're very ambitious, you could even put on your own play with a bunch of other actors.

What will you need?

Every actor needs an 8 X 10 black-and-white headshot and a one-page resume. There are sections to explain the details about Headshots and Resume on the site.

How long will it take to get a part?

This depends on how hard you work, where you live, how many opportunities are available, and how much competition you have. If you're a brand-new actor living in LA, it may be quite difficult to land your first film role because there are literally thousands of other actors competing for the same roles. However, there are also lots of places to train and lots of theaters to get involved with. In a smaller city such as Winnipeg, Manitoba, there is less work, but there's also fewer actors, so if you're willing to work at getting to know people, you'll be called in to audition for parts and you'll have a better chance of getting them since there is less competition.

It could happen right away, or it may take you years to land a role. Either way, it's not saying much about your talent or drive - a lot of it has to do with being at the right place at the right time.

Will you be able to live off of your acting?

Likely not - most actors have a second job to pay the bills - but it is possible. Many actors do modelling or commercials to make money, and both of those pay quite a bit. It'll probably take a long time before you can survive solely on film & TV work.