To become and actor or actress, you don't have to move to L.A. right away. In all reality, to start an acting career there are many things you should do before you pack up and move to Hollywood.
While I was writing this blog I was trying to remember my very first acting job and I just couldn't. I've been acting for so long that I actually can't remember my very first gig.
The only thing I remember is how badly I wanted to become an actress but was so scared and overwhelmed to do anything about it. I also remember feeling like I was wasting time by just 'dreaming' about becoming an actress so I took action.
Way back when I was young and fresh and green we didn't have what you have today. We didn't have online social media, easy access to monologues, online acting classes or much access to acting auditions.
We had craigslist and local newspapers and periodicals like the Austin's Chronicle where theater companies and casting directors placed ads for casting calls.
Joining an acting school was not within my reach at the time so I had to find alternative ways to start preparing myself for my future endeavor.
Since I don't want to overwhelm you, here are 3 easy things you can do right now to get into acting.
3 Easy Things
You'll start training as an actor or actress by reading monologues and learning to memorize them and dissect them. You'll start working with film students and start taking your craft seriously by networking and learning from other actors locally. Let me show you what I mean.
1. Audition Monologues
When you go in for movie auditions you will be asked to either perform a prepared monologue or read from sides. If you are serious about becoming an actor, read and learn to memorize monologues. You can go to online sites for acting scripts to practice reading sides, or to find 1-3 minute monologues.
The Monologue Database
Monologue Genie
Actor Point - Monologues for Actors and Auditions
To learn how to memorize, choose and perform a monologue you can check out YouTube videos like these:
How to Approach a Monologue
How to Prepare for An Audition
How to Perform a Monologue for Auditions
Note that memorizing monologues is not as important as delivery and performance. I'm currently reading "Acting That Matters" by Barry Pineo and I recommend it. He shows you how to score a monologue.
2. Theater
Support the local arts and local stage plays. While you are there to watch a show, sign up for updates, lessons put on by the troupe/company and even theater auditions.
Acting agents want to see theater/stage experience in your acting resume even if your focus is on film.
Also, remember to find theaters and troupes in your area on FaceBook and "like" their page to receive updates.
3. Audition for student films.
One of your first acting jobs may be in a student film if you live near film schools. Students often cast new actors for the films as long as you show you are actively learning and really dedicated to your new craft by being reliable and easy to work with.
Browse online on BackStage for student film casting calls. Introduce yourself and send your picture or headshot if you have one.
Read this blog for Starter Headshots for Actors if you don't have a headshot yet.
Send your resume along with your headshot. Read this blog, Actor's Resume - The Layout on how to put one together and download a resume template here.
If you are looking to become an actor with no experience, don't worry, you can mention this to casting when you submit your information. Many student filmmakers don't require experience.
If you're scared about starting your acting career, don't be. There are baby steps you can take to start acting right now.
There is nothing scary about reading monologues watching YouTube videos and working with film students is there?
To start acting you don't have to jump through hoops or wait for anything, you already have enough tools and materials!
You can start acting right now. Today.