We have found 19,373 posts across 4 actor forums:
Just finished my first acting class, it was amazing! by erennooo • last post Jan 27th
I just completed my first acting class a couple of nights ago and it was awesome! I never had any formal training or experience besides the ones I had in college when I was able to do theater, short films and other student projects (that's when I got bit by the acting bug) but put in on hold because of life. Now I'm older (just turned 34 last week) and I've decided to finally pursue acting. Going in I was still doubtful about certain things. I had two goals: 1) To find out if I had the same feeling/sensation back in school that made me truly happy and 2) if I could actually act/have the potential to do it. Fortunately, I've checked both boxes! I'm not from North America, but my acting coach studied in the US under an amazing acting teacher there, is actually 2 years younger than me and has had won awards here in my country. Besides being a good actor, he's also a no-nonsense dude who doesn't sugarcoat crap which was great and he gives good insight whenever you ask something which I did a lot. The gist of it is that he said I can act and I have the talent to pursue this if I really wanted to and he told me age isn't a factor whether you start early or a bit late. I did well in almost all of our exercises but he's listed down the things that I need to work on, it's not a lot, specifically being 'too intellectual' and that I overthink a lot, which is true in most cases in my life. He said that I'm thinking way too much consciously in terms of how I want to deliver my lines, my movement, etc. and is the reason why I'm having emotional blocks. Knowing what I need to work on and understanding the criticisms from the coach and his staff alongside the opinions of my classmates is so enriching for me, both the positives and the negatives. I think I've done well in my first class and is a good boost in my morale that someone competent and good (at the least here in my country) said that if I continue working hard for this I can do it. I'm planning to re-take the same class in a couple of months and try to iron out things before I move on to other classes. This has rejuvenated me in so many ways, being able to do what I love even if it's just in the learning stage. I mean, the same feeling is there under all the stress and anxiety that's produced by some of the exercises lol. I also met some amazing new people which is always a plus. I Just wanted to share my experience with those who also lurk here who wants to pursue their acting dream. Take note I'm waaaay older than most of the people asking if they're too old to start or whatnot. Also, I wanted to ask actors here what they do to practice the craft when they're not in class or on set? I have a rundown of the class I took and I know I can do them at home. But I'm curious if there are other things you can do at home to keep improving even if by yourself? I don't want to stagnate just because my first class went better than expected. thx in advance!
Does Nationality effect? by Gagius01 • last post Jan 27th
So, I'm an aspiring actor that hopes to one day break big just like I'm sure what most of us in this thread dream about also. Problem is that I'm from Europe and from my research, I have 2 large obstacles for me to overcome. One is that of acquiring a VISA and actually settling down in the United States, which I'm sure will cost a lot of money and paperwork but for that I've already started saving up. Now the second obstacle is my Nationality. As you all might be familiar with by now, any lead characters in a blockbuster movie or series, most of the time consists of American nationalities. Thing is I'm actually Maltese (if any of you know where Malta is lol) and we Maltese are all Caucasians so my look could pass as an American, but the only problem is the accent and that I'm working on it as we speak. But my issue is, do you think that casting agents, as soon as they see that the nationality is not American, they will completely ignore it and not even consider you for a lead role, even if you nail the accent? Anyone has any similar circumstances of mine and is finding or not finding this a problem? TIA :) ​ EDIT: I really hope that Caucasian part did not come out as racist, what I meant is that we do not have any distinct features that would differ us from what an American would look like (in my opinion).
What is your least favorite thing to hear when you come to (camera) acting class? by tobeavornot • last post Jan 27th
It’s the first day of class, and I love to keep everyone motivated and positive, and be honest about the commitment required to be successful in class and as an actor. So what caused you to go from skeptical to on the edge of your seat?
Free Website/Online Resume Offer by NervousSpare • last post Jan 27th
Hi all! I’m a web designer currently building my portfolio to offer design services to actors, musicians and other types of performers and creatives. Instead of making examples out of made up people, I thought I’d offer a couple free websites for actors who may be just starting out or not able to afford one right now. The offer includes your website and hosting for 6 months. Website specifics will be discussed to fit your needs. **There are a few requisites:** \- You need to have some acting credits, I don’t care how big or small, but I need information to showcase on your website. \- Headshots and/or other professional images required. \- 18 and over only Open worldwide, but the site will be in English. You also need to be available to discuss your website during the next few weeks. To apply, please **reply here with some information about your work and listing what content you have** (photos, demo reel, etc). If more people than I can work with apply, I’ll pick randomly. Thanks for reading!
How do actors manage unexpected coughs, sneezes, burps, and yawns while on stage? by Liceland1998 • last post Jan 26th
Hello Everyone. I have always wondered this, since you never see an actor cough, sneeze, burp, or yawn during a live production, yet these are all noisy bodily functions that can happen anywhere at anytime. Thank You.
What is a book that has helped you as an actor that isn't about acting? by DayeFunaway • last post Jan 26th
I saw someone recommend *Never Eat Alone* on here the other day which I'm loving so far. The author, Keith Ferrazzi, is an entrepreneur and the book details how to network in a "socially healthy and mutually beneficial way." I find it's really helping me have a more realistic mindset regarding my relationships with other people, both in and outside of business. I'm naturally a bit of a recluse and reluctant to reach out to people which obviously isn't a great quality to possess (and in the entertainment industry of all places). Are there any books that have helped you personally as an actor that aren't strictly about acting?
My acting rant post by Quadisimo • last post Jan 26th
I’m just here to rant for a bit. I honestly hate it and find it very rude when you respond to a actor request, you have mail contact for a bit, call once and then suddenly don’t hear anything anymore. This has happened with me with some big gigs, which I’m less mad about. But it happens pretty often that small student productions I respond to do the same. They don’t pay anything and I’m basically helping them because they need to finish their study. And then they just totally forget me or something. I’ve even once had that they gave me a time and place to be for recordings and nobody was there except me, another actor and a very confused camera man. They just didn’t show up for their own recording... it’s in my opinion just rude to stand someone up like that...
Books with tips & tricks on what to do in worst-case-scenario acting situations? (Poor writing, unclear directors etc) by GiveYourselfAFry • last post Jan 26th
Hi guys, so I’ve seen (& read) many books on how to “get started” acting, or how to become a better actor, different techniques & schools of thought, the director/actor dynamic, what makes for a good crew & set etc etc. It can be easy to do your job as an actor when everything is going well; the script is strong, the director is a great & open communicator, things are going according to plan, you’re not being rushed, the overall atmosphere on set is warm & respectful & etc. Unfortunately, this is not always the case & often things go wrong more than they go right, especially on lower budget productions. So what I’m wondering is does anyone know of any books (or other media) that’s discusses tips & tricks or what one can do when things are not so right & rosy? Like When you don’t have much to work with in the script because the writing isn’t fantastic or when it tells you EXACTLY what to do & you feel restricted. What to do when the director isn’t very clear with what (s)he wants or only directs you with line readings & whatnot. Or when you are being rushed & dont feel you have time to work through your character etc. Thanks for any help!
Any tips or tricks when getting into acting by Ace1C • last post Jan 26th
I have just started getting into acting and I wanna become an actor someday in Disney movies and for other companies. I just don’t know how or where to start and I’m only 16 any help would be appreciated.
Amateur actor, I got cast in tv show “Hekla” by director Baltasar Kormákur.. one of first trans men ever in the film industry. Follow me for updates!! by crawlingalien • last post Jan 26th
Learning Duration by SarahTchil • last post Jan 26th
Hello everyone. I'm 22 and have just begun with an online acting class. By the time I finish my current major in the university I will be 23. I wanted to know how long would it take for me to study and practice enough in acting to be ready for auditioning. Can study and practice at the same time and be ready in 2 years max ?? And would it be possible if I also have a day job or it should be my only focus to be ready enough in 2 years? Or even less depending on how much I practice and how fast I learn. (I do realized that an actor never stops learning and always has to continue practicing if he/she learns basics bcz theres always more to know.) Any advice or personal experience is appreciated! ♡
How many of your are approached by strangers with the question, "Are you a voice actor or on the radio?" by rpeg • last post Jan 26th
I wonder if this is how some of you arrived at voice acting: through some social pressure? I admit that probably sounds like the wrong kind of motivation but that's where I'm at. I'm at the early stages. I enjoy speaking. I'm actually a college lecturer so I communicate often. This is not a serious topic but I'm mostly seeking others who relate to my experience. I live in Los Angeles and for years, pretty every month, strangers ask if I'm on the radio or tell me that I need to be. It was amusing at first. I had no interest in this area of work. Then after years of this... I sort of became frustrated and decided to finally pursue it. **Anyone else have that type of experience? Strangers just walking up to you to discuss your voice?** Listen, I'm not tall, I'm not the most attractive guy in the world so this type interaction with strangers is just very strange to me.
Aspiring voice actor by -CobaltOwl- • last post Jan 26th
Hey everyone. I am an aspiring voice actor who just started his own Youtube channel. I am only a beginner and have very basic equipment right now but if you guys have time please feel free to check out my channel. I only have a few videos up so far but I upload every week so more are definitely on the way. Thank you so much. ( Link to the channel below!) ( [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJC-2RCz5izNH60064\_rqiQ](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJC-2RCz5izNH60064_rqiQ) )
Would it be worth going to drama school after I graduate from my current university? If I get into drama school I'll be graduating in my late 20s. I'm scared of starting acting so late, but then I want drama school training so much. by taylorymk • last post Jan 26th
I’m at a university that has nothing to do with acting. I realised my wish to become an actor too late after I had gotten in. I’ve acted several times in a drama society, and during a couple of English drama classes and it was so exhilarating. I have around a year left until graduation so I’m desperately searching for short courses or summer courses at drama schools in the UK. I would love to work in the UK later as well. I LOVE acting in English but I don’t live in an English speaking country, so I’m constantly searching for programs abroad and worrying my head off. This month I tried taking an acting class but it was based on Strasberg and felt quite off (excuse my poor use of words). There isn’t much else in terms of acting classes over here. I did find a class on the Alexander Technique, so I’m thinking of taking that but it’s quite expensive. The problem I have is that I look at the prices of those classes and the short courses/summer courses in drama schools, and wonder if I’d be better off investing all of that money into a BA in acting after I graduate my current uni. I’ve read that short courses don’t do much for you both for your craft and also later in the business. It would be great to get into an MA - because it’s one year compared to three - but I won’t have any vocational acting that some MAs require since I’m still a full time student. I’ve searched for the National Youth Theatre but I need a UK address either from friend or family to audition and I don’t have anybody I know there. If I get a place, I’d have to return to my country to finish my degree. But I still have a chance to return to the UK the next year which is great. But again, no address. Sometimes I think I should just graduate uni, forget the long and expensive drama school option, get to the UK, and start auditioning like mad. But I have no network whatsoever nor any proper training so that scares me too much. I am in love with the theatre in the UK and I simply don’t know what to do. I don’t have anyone I know near me who wants to go to a UK drama school / work in the UK and always end up going online to ask this and that. So I would really appreciate it if someone could give me some advice. Thanks!
Can a female African American voice actresses dm concerning voice over work. by Voidewalker • last post Jan 26th
Hi. If you fit the description please contact me
Do I need anything before I sign up on audition websites? by Soyatare • last post Jan 25th
Read reviews and would like to sign up for backstage, actors access, etc but I am wondering if there is anything I should have before I sign up on this site and similar sites. I am a voice actor with a bit of work, been doing improv for about a year. Should I get a headshot, acting reel or anything else? I do not want to sign up for sites and learn that I put the cart before the horse. Anything I should have to better prepare myself before I sign up?
The Manikin Agency - legit? by Albatross_90 • last post Jan 25th
Greetings, all. I am a voice actor and upon networking for representation, I came across the Manikin agency. Their website looked innocent enough. I noticed voiceover work in their extended list of services, so I decided to reach out. Here’s where the first red flag appeared... Instead of filling out an online form and attaching a demo, the prospective talent must schedule an interview with a talent director... kind of like setting up an oil change appointment. wtf?? Every agency I’ve ever interfaced with had always communicated with me on THEIR terms. So, okay I did that. I received an email shortly after from a talent director asking me to prep for the Skype interview by looking though the agency’s FAQ page: http://www.manikinmodels.com/faqs According to that, as a registered talent: I am to maintain a subscription to The Audition Connection. Essentially an actor database that holds all of my info/demos/headshots... for $23 per month. I’ll also be unable to audition for their jobs without this service. What you guys think? Seems concerning. My interview is tomorrow. Thanks!
What's your opinion on Bryce Papenbrook as a voice actor? by Tristan_Dean_Foss • last post Jan 25th
This has probably been asked before, but I'm legitimately curious to hear people's opinions on him after directly asking, because the consensus on him seems to change depending on where you go to. My personal opinion on him is he's not a bad voice actor, on par with a lot of other people, but he is overcast and there are roles where other voices would fit much better. That's not to say he's never cast well, though.
I always think that acting is fake and its affecting my performance by muffin_mugger • last post Jan 25th
Whenever i act i just think yes this is how it should be but its fake its not real so what the point of doing it? This is not good as i wanna be an actor. Any advice for me?