Tips For Student Actors – Screenwise Tips

So you want to be an actress or actor, but you’re not sure where to start? This is a profession that’s notoriously hard to enter, but with perseverance, a good attitude and some training, it isn’t impossible.
Follow our steps and you’ll be on your way to screen and stage in no time…after a lot of hard work and a little luck, of course.

“Where do I begin?”

• With acting, it’s all about practice, and as a student, you likely have easy access to acting groups at school, university, or even local theatre groups. Check with your teachers, lecturers or the students’ union to see if there are any that are available to join. Not only will you receive free training from your peers and a chance to act in front of live audience, it will also help you understand whether or not acting is definitely for you.
• DIY it: Don’t just consign your practice to sessions with the club. Study how your favourite actors perform in films by concentrating on their speech, facial expressions, and gestures. Practice in front of the mirror and record yourself trying out different accents. If you have a passion for acting, it will come through the level of detail and commitment you have to studying and exploring the craft in and out of studies.
• Once you’ve gotten some experience and decided that you love acting and want to pursue it, it’s time to move on to professional training. Consider starting a course, like the in-depth Screenteens acting classes or holiday workshops for under-16s, to really throw yourself head first into the industry. If you’re over 17 then it might be time to consider the Diploma of Screen Acting (10065NAT) or The Showreel Course. Both courses provide a thorough and rewarding platform for young actors who desire a long-term career in the Film and Television industry.

What else do I need to prepare?

• You need a showreel or demo reel, which is a selection of scenes that display your acting skills. To ensure it looks as professional as possible, we recommend the One-Year Part-Time Showreel Course where you’ll receive a quality showreel at the end of this extensive training.
• Headshots are also necessary. These are photographs that you will attach to your portfolio, showing the director your ‘look’ and ensuring they have an idea whether or not you’re right for the part before inviting you to audition.
• Finally, you need a resume. This should list your star turns – even that small role in a production counts if you’re lacking experience – as well as your vital statistics (eye colour, height, etc).

“How do I get real auditions?”

• You need to make contacts, which you will only truly build up by acting as much as possible. This will help you to make connections in the industry with people who can recommend you to agents and casting directors. This is why it’s useful to join an acting course at Screenwise as our trainers are industry professionals who can guide you towards the best approach in forming industry relationships.
• Nowadays, showing your skills on YouTube is a great way to break into show business. Why not start a vlog? This will let you practice your skills while putting them out there for everyone to see.

Perhaps the most important step in your journey to acting success, however, is not to give up. Following this list isn’t a guaranteed way of achieving your dreams as everyone’s path is different and there are hundreds of ways to make it into the industry. With practice and perseverance, you’re sure to find the one that’s right for you.