We have found 19,462 posts across 4 actor forums:
What makes a good actor better than others? How do I know if I am a good actor? by Cold-Handle-827 • last post Jul 2nd
I’ve done skits before with a few friends, and sometimes people tell me that I am a decent actor, and others don’t take note of anything going on, just watching. But how can I tell if I am good? What can I do?
How some people can Rock and become superstar overnight? by SpiritualFighter • last post Jul 2nd
How there are actors who just discovered in a restaurant with zero acting experince or a few experince and get rock and famous for just a show or in a short period of time??? Is Acting mostly about appearance, Right moment (right place+right time+right person) and connections rather than acting ability?
An introduction to majoring in acting or theatre by ShiningAway • last post Jul 2nd
I'm seeing a sudden influx of school-related questions regarding what to major in, whether it's worth it or not, and what exactly you're signing up for. As a BA Theatre Studies (aka Theatre Arts in some places) major who has taken conservatory classes and been accepted into drama schools, I aim to demystify the different variations of theatre majors and what you will actually be doing in each one, so that high school students and mature candidates alike can make an informed decision. DISCLAIMER: Because different schools name their courses differently, the course name that you are interested in may not always match the descriptions I write here. You should still research on the individual classes of each degree course to figure out if you really want to study that. ## Types of degrees **Full-time conservatory training** * BFA in Acting * BFA in Musical Theatre * BM in Musical Theatre * BFA in Theatre * BFA in Performance * BA (Hons) in Acting (UK) * BA (Hons) in Musical Theatre (UK) Generally, a course which advertises itself as a BFA should have acting, voice and speech, movement and audition technique classes. Musical theatre majors should expect to spend their time on singing, acting and dancing. It has also expected these days that BFA programs have at least one semester of on-camera training to prepare its students for screen and new media projects. Note that in the UK, courses in drama school are denoted as bachelor of arts (BA) courses. That said, their training is often just as intense as US courses and top UK drama schools have been known to surpass US colleges in terms of intensity. This is because while US colleges have general education requirements and electives, UK schools focus on deep specialization which means that every class taken is subject-related. Usually, an audition is part of admission requirements for such programs. **Performance-based liberal arts degrees** * BA in Acting * BA in Musical Theatre * BA in Theatre Performance * BA in Theatre Arts * BA in Theatre * BA in Theatre Studies * BA (Hons) in Theatre (UK) Once we arrive in the liberal arts degree category, it is a lot harder to determine if a course will give you the training you need just from the name of the course alone. You will need to cross-check between this category and the next one (Academic-based liberal arts degrees) to figure out if the degree you are interested in focuses more on performance or academics. Some degree programs even give their students the opportunity to choose their own specializations, so a program is not limited to one category. A performance-based BA is not as intensive as a typical BFA due to the number of hours allocated to general education classes and electives. However, there are exceptions to this rule. Pace University offers a BA in Acting, while the American University offers a BA in Musical Theatre. In both schools, auditions are necessary to enter and a considerable amount of time is dedicated to practical conservatory-style training. However, the vast majority of liberal arts degrees do not require an audition. **Academic-based liberal arts degrees** * BA in Theatre * BA in Theatre Studies * BA in Theatre Arts * BA in Performance Studies * BA (Hons) in Theatre (UK) * BA (Hons) in Theatre Studies (UK) Most prospective actors would not find those courses very appealing as they tend to spend a lot of time on contextual issues such as culture, history, politics and performance theory rather than what we came to college for - which is acting. However, there are academic-based courses which allow students to take performance-based electives. The less rigorous structure of the BA also frees up time for projects and training outside school. This category of courses usually do not require an audition. **Alternative pathways** * Community college * Performing arts high school * Full time conservatory in a studio * Private coaching * Audition-only youth theatre Those are just some of the various options you can consider if you prefer a non-traditional route. ## So what should I choose? Here are some things you should consider as a student: **Cost:** * How much are you willing to spend on university? * Does your dream school require you to pay out-of-state or international tuition? * How much financial aid or scholarship money do you have? * Can you work part time? **Location:** * How far do you intend to travel? * Do you need a passport or visa? * Are you able to stay for work after graduating? **Prospects:** * Do you want a second major or minor as a parallel career track? * Are you able to fit that into your course requirements and graduate on time? * Is the (in)ability to participate in external auditions and projects a dealbreaker to you? **Interests:** * Do you feel ready for conservatory life? * If you're coming from a highly academic background, would an academic/hybrid liberal arts degree be more suitable for your needs? * Do you believe that understanding performance theory and dramaturgy can help you as a performing artist? ## Questions **Is a BFA better than a BA?** If better means "being able to book work", no. Neither degree guarantees that you will book work, and it all comes down to your own audition or selftape. If "better" refers to how intense/demanding the actor training will be, then the BFA is better than the BA on average, ceteris paribus. This assumes that two students of equal intelligence, ability and resourcefulness are put in each program with no external guidance or networking opportunities. However, from personal (anecdotal) experience, having an academic BA in Theatre can become a solid talking point with the director or casting director. That point alone has netted me a few bookings. Of course, ymmv depending on how well you handle casual conversations. **Do I really need training?** See Young Adult Pilot Bookings for 2022, 2020, 2019 and 2018. **How do I start?** Go to an acting class, in-person if you can. Trust me. That's your first step as an actor and if you want to be considered for any of the audition-based programs, you must first understand what acting is about. **I have more questions.** Ask them in the comments! I'll try to respond as fast as I can.
Should you really pay $$$ for acting “demo reels”? by Representative_Sir_5 • last post Jul 2nd
I live in LA I’m SAG from years ago, but have no demo reel to begin acting again & have no agent. After researching supposedly legit companies that make acting reels, why do all the reels look terrible with shadows/bad lighting, shaky camera, edits that aren’t right and the actors are all terrible? They ask anywhere from $1 -5K for these reels that are not fooling anyone that it’s a real production. Would reps & casting directors rather look at a well-acted self tape with a scene partner off camera? Perhaps 90 seconds with clips from 3 different scenes? Seems very scammy & $$ for a SAG voiceover/singer older actor getting started in the business again to do on-camera work. Don’t they just have you submit a self-tape of audition material and upload online?
How to prepare for a small role? by ActingGabriel • last post Jul 1st
I've been cast in a small role in a low-budget feature. It's an action movie, and my character is basically the bad guy's lead henchman. It's a fun role, it has a few interesting fight scenes, but the characterization isn't particularly deep. The guy is goon that says "yes boss", enjoys punching the hero a bit (until he gets his own ass kicked), and his last line somewhat redeems him. Nonetheless, I want to play this role to the best of my ability. The problem is that most of the techniques I've practiced in class are for "meatier" characters, where it's reasonably clear what their scene objective is, or what their overall life goal is. But what do I do with a guy that punches people when his boss tells him to? I guess I could make up a backstory as elaborate as I want, as long as it makes the few lines and actions of the role plausible. Is this how experienced actors prepare for small roles? Is there anything else I should be doing? Or for a role like this, just focus on the physicality and aim to make it look believable and exciting, but not a particularly three-dimensional human being?
How to study actors on television? by sg1256 • last post Jul 1st
To improve your acting skills or get inspired by.
Changing Name by jlm792 • last post Jul 1st
I've been thinking of changing my last name to a stage name. Currently there is already an actress with my name, she isn't well-known or famous but when you search my name she is the first hit. I've been acting for about six years and using my middle name. Nothing I've done has been super professional, just a lot of short films and student films and mainly classes and workshops. I took a break from acting the last two years and jumping head first back in this year and wondering if it would be worth it to differentiate myself now before it's too late. I'm not a member of the union yet or booked anything "professional". However, I would have to change my websites, profiles, social media handles, etc. Is it too late to do this? Should I just keep going by my name with my middle name added (which I don't love)? I would just rather do it now if I'm going to do it than wait any longer. I'm afraid with all the classes/workshops, etc I've taken that it's not a good idea at this point. But would love to get thoughts/opinions!
Any college majors, besides "Theatre" that will help for future film actors? by LillyVelvet • last post Jul 1st
The college I’m planning on apply to has only a Theater Arts major (although, I’m wanting to be a film actress rather than a theatrical actress). Idk if I should put this but [F20]. I was wondering if there’s any other college degree majors that’ll help me in the future. I was thinking maybe Communication or English major. Some actress I look up to and their degrees: Gabrielle Union - Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology Regina Hall - Master’s Degree in Journalism Sanaa Lathan - Master’s Degree in Drama Some actress I like started very age in acting, once they got out of high school they were set and ready. Some actress I like dropped out of high school/college to pursue their acting careers, sometimes I do feel like I waited to late, but Taraji P. Henson didn’t start acting until she was 26, which makes me feel like I have time (and I do look younger for my age as well, which helps out a lot). If you have attended college, what did you major in and do you think it’ll help out in the future? Or should I not attend college (something tells me it’s a waste of time, even though some great actress attend college) and I should just practice and study acting?
Am I cut out to be an actor? by Lilac_Vibes • last post Jul 1st
I love acting... But I'm not sure if it's the career for me. I have extreme anxiety when it comes to uncertainty. I just can't seem to handle it; I plan my life out to the most minute detail, even though I know everything can, and probably will change in some form. I'm also someone who gets jealous easily, as much as I hate that about myself. The idea that I might struggle in some way gives me a painful amount of anxiety daily, and I constantly seek reassurance from those around me. Yet somehow, I can't stop loving it; the thrill of stepping out on a stage in front of hundreds of people, the joy I get when I make them laugh or cry, and the pride I get knowing that I'm good at what I do. I hate myself for loving it because it tortures me every single day, and I'm not even old enough for a professional career yet. I don't dream of broadway - being in a small company that performs in a park would be enough for me. (I think) All I seem to hear is "You'll never get work, it's a brutal industry" or "you'll be a waitress your whole life", and it scares the absolute shit out of me. I'm just so exhausted from worrying when I've barely even started.
I want to voice act for Genshin Impact, but don't know how to start. Any tips? by nagareboshi_chan • last post Jul 1st
I currently have no experience or training, but I would like to eventually voice a Genshin character. This is a long-term goal, of course. I don't live in or near a major city like LA or Dallas. I may be able to put together a home recording studio with the right equipment. My main concern is getting experience and establishing myself. From what I know, companies prefer experienced actors, meaning newbies like myself struggle to find jobs. Does anyone have any advice?
Uncertain by Holiday_Opposite_808 • last post Jul 1st
Hello everyone, I have a few questions that could definitely go unanswered because they are just weird. I’m an aspiring collegiate athlete, specifically a lacrosse player, and I’m likely going to end up at a Division 1 school (if I continue on the path I’m on). I am a rising junior in highschool, and despite me playing multiple sports, I’ve always had a love for writing and acting. Specifically writing and acting in the sci-fi genre. Although I’ve never been in theatre or writing club or anything related to that, it’s always been my dream to become an actor or writer. My question is how I know I’m cut out to be an actor/writer, but more importantly an actor, at all. I’ve recorded myself reading scripts and had it compared to others reading the same script and got good feedback. Even though it’s not the most practical, acting is still my dream. So, I guess my final question is should I pursue acting? My school does have acting classes. I feel like I’m too creative and gifted to waste my life working as a finance guy in an office. I am also worried about what my parents would say, but they have read my stories and seen my videos before and said they were great. Im just uncertain in a lot of ways. If you read this all… Thanks!
Do actors feel limited by where they live? by inSpyran • last post Jun 30th
Are agent breakdowns limited by region? For example, would a well-connected Toronto agent have access to the same breakdowns as a well-connected LA agent (ie: a marvel production) that they forward to their talent. Or would toronto actors not be given those opportunities? in which case, can a toronto actor seek representation in LA while still living in toronto, and have an LA agent submit for them. Would they still require a work permit to book those jobs or would production take care of that after booking the gig? do actors feel region-locked out of big opportunities simply because of where they live, regardless of how good their agent is?
anyone in need of a voice actor? by Horror_Annual_5478 • last post Jun 30th
Do not wish to be paid, just wish to have fun.
Is it worth obtaining an acting degree (or otherwise) to become a professional actor? by iloveyoubitchhh • last post Jun 30th
Just wondering as I’m starting to make decisions about my future. I’m already taking acting classes (and have been for years) but I’m wondering if it’s worth going to an arts uni or college (or do an arts/theatre degree) to become a professional actor (particularly on film) Any advice or tips would be greatly appreciated! Thanks <3
How do the boyfriends of actresses cope with their significant other kissing and making love on camera? by JBPBoy • last post Jun 30th
Ive always wondered how do certain people deal with the fact that some actor is making out with ur girlfriend on camera and getting butt naked in bed with them. You have to be crazy to let your girlfriend do sex scenes or kiss other dudes.
Trying to put myself out there as an actor. by Inter-estingg • last post Jun 30th
Hey guys! I was wanted an option or advice on posting myself doing scenes and monologues on social media? Tiktok? Youtube? As a way to put myself out there? We never know who’s scouting on these types of social media platforms, especially tiktok where it’s easy to blow up or attract an audience as the algorithm on tiktok is usually in our favor. I have a professional looking backdrop and a tripod that I use for my self tapes, and I wanted to perform ordinal work and maybe published work on Tiktok?
Questions from a non actor by KingCrappy • last post Jun 30th
Hello all. Before I get into my questions, I want to thank everyone in this community for the content here. After a while out of acting, my wife is getting back into it and while I am doing what i can to support her, I don't always have answers or knowledge I need and I have been able to reference a lot of things I've found here to help me out, so I appreciate it First, as I said, my wife is getting back into acting after a while not doing it. I do what I can to offer support; searching through casting calls, driving her where I can, editing, filming, etc., but I truly want to do more. We are in the chicago market, and while I do utilize backstage and a few others, I was wondering if there are alternative options for finding casting calls. Can I reach out to casting directors directly? Are there places I am unaware of that post current projects? I really want to do more than relying on (mainly) backstage. Next, I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions for setting up a recording space. Equipment suggestions? Software ( I'm using Adobe premiere right now, but I am no expert)? I'd like to actually turn a space or spare room into a recording area and was wondering if anyone had done anything similar and might have suggestions. I'm far from rich, but am willing to invest money into this to do it right. Basically, if anyone has advice for me as the spouse of an actor, I'm willing to take it all. As a side note, my wife recently got a role acting in a short film that was part of a sort of concept contest. Each filmmaker had 7 days to make a short 60 second film from start to finish (writing, filming, editing, etc.). As someone with no real experience in any of these things, I thought it was a cool idea. Beyond my wife acting in one of these, I have no affiliation with the project, but wanted to share the YouTube trailer for the contest which is live on July 7 (7pmcst, I think). Anyway, as I said, I just found it interesting and thought I would share it here as well if anyone wanted to check it out. https://youtu.be/_-8e5lDSb5Y Again, thanks to everyone for all the help so far and to anyone who takes the time to offer me advice or even read my post. It all helps me learn.
Feedback, anyone? by TomKunzman • last post Jun 30th
This was my very first genuine stab at acting. I’d love thoughts from the fellow actors and directors in here. I had never done anything in the realm of psychological horror until I shot this film and I had an absolute blast. It ignited my passion for the craft but I want to do and learn much much more. I played Dr. Geoffrey Barter. The one and only time I ever had a beard! Enjoy xx https://youtu.be/KhvzQnlHNNI
Headshot-Age Range-Character Type Feedback by AutoModerator • last post Jun 30th
Use this thread to post your headshots for feedback, get info on your age range/type, find good headshot photographers, ask any questions you may have about headshots. If you are posting a DIY headshot for feedback, and not just a snapshot in order to get feedback on your age range/type/etc, it is advised that you do at least some basic research on what actor headshots look like--composition, framing, lighting. You will find a Google Image search for "actor headshots" to be very helpful for this. Non-professional shots are fine for age/typecasting; please keep in mind that one picture is a difficult way to go about this. Video of you moving and speaking would be ideal, but understandably more difficult to post. For what it's worth, the branding workshop at SAG-AFTRA recommends a five-year age range. That's inclusive, so for example 19-23, 25-29, 34-38, etc.
How to make self tape file size smaller by Saaaintniiiick • last post Jun 29th
I currently doing an Eco Cast self tape via Actors Access and the casting director has said they can’t accept files above 100MB, and that if it is over that I will be asked to resize. My self tape came out to just under 500MB. I don’t understand how I’m expected to submit to this as the sides are long in themselves. Should I just cut the take into several 100MB chunks? Or maybe cut out reader dialogue?