Hi guys! I've been more and more recently been feeling the urge to explore the idea of getting into acting. I did a very small amount of acting when I was younger, mostly just home videos with friends and such and then I did drama for only just a few months. So it's been at least 15 years since I've done ANY kind of acting. So my question is, being completely inexperienced, how does one go about starting to pursue a career in acting? Specifically comedy. I don't know that I could be serious enough in front of a camera right off the bat! Any tips and advice ya'll could point me in would be very much appreciated, thanks!
Acting : How does one get started as an actor!? by Katherine Dawson
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I'm sure I'd be able to come into my own and find the ability to do drama, I would just like to start out with comedy! I'll be sure to check out and read the book you suggested. Thank you for your tips Chip ;)
Lol, thanks man!
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Take a beginning acting class. Learn the nuts and bolts of technique so you have a solid foundation. Find a good teacher. Learn your craft.
Well, I wrote an ebook(9.95) ;) on how to get started in acting without taking an acting class. I have never taken an acting class and I have a small part opposite Sam Rockwell in Jared Hess's new comedy that debuts at Sundance this month. I am the lead of a film that co-stars Kevin Sorbo and Stephen Baldwin and I am the lead of a film that co stars Terry kiser (dead guy/ Bernie) Weekend at Bernies. I always wonder why people think comedy is the easiest to do? I think it is the hardest. But that is another debate.
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Thank you Katherine! I'm in the same both!!! I'm trying to gety feet wet, but I do know where to start. I have taken many classes and I'm taking many more in community college!
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Go online and look for local improv groups. Here in LA there's more than one, but where ever you live you can find or start one. Read Keith Johnston's Impro. And do set up a camera to record what you do. Have fun and see what develops.
My friend is one of Hollywood's best acting coaches. Just happens he and his partner coming to London for a workshop in April. I can send you more info if you or anyone you know is interested. I think I could get you a discount as well. They are about results and are unlike any other coaches touring the UK. Let me know! ooh...if you have any questions, I could email him as well and get back to you. They work with ANY level of experience to show you how to get cast.
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Get training get training get training. For the love of all that's holy, get training.
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Thank you everyone for the wonderful advice! I think I now have a layout of ideas to get rockin!
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Well, if your in LA, a good step to take is getting an agent. You most likely want to start off on your own so you don't get overwhelmed, and so you have experience. If you build your resume a bit before submitting to agencies, you'll most likely get more meetings. Sign up for sites like Backstage and Actors Access. Headshots are also important. The better the headshot, the better your advertisement:) The idea of getting started is completely overwhelming, but as things start to fall into place, it becomes far less so. Good luck!
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Find a local community theatre and volunteer. Start out with baby steps: help the Stage Manager, build sets, attend auditions, go to rehearsals and hand out scripts. WATCH, LOOK, LISTEN as more experienced players go through these stages. If you are dependable and professional, the staff will recognize your abilities and integrate you more into their productions.
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My advice is to start performing and making stuff. Whether it is just filming something with a friend or auditioning for roles through LA Casting or at the film schools around town, the more you act, the more you meet people and can build your contacts and resume. And, in the end, the right person may see you. I also 100% agree that you should ALWAYS be training. If you are interested in Comedy, the classes at UCB , Improv Olympic and The Groundlings are really great and a lot of comedic actors come up through these programs. Also, as someone said above, make sure you have great and updated headshots. Casting directors are immediately turned off if you walk in to an audition and have a different hairstyle or look from your headshot. Hope this helps. :)
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Some more great advice! Thank you so much everyone. Hopefully in a few months I can come back on this forum with an updated on how things are going. Cheers!