Helpful Tips from Actors in the Biz
“Let go, forget everything you’re taught and become whoever you’re trying to portray…It shouldn’t be called acting but becoming. We have to allow ourselves to let go and be vulnerable and allow people to question our sanity.”
Traycee King (Los Angeles actor) and her acting coach
- Watch how people interact with others on a day-to-day basis.
- When presented with a possible project ask every question you can possibly think of, for example: If unsure if story/script is sound find a trusted screenwriter and ask their opinion. Who is involved in the project both cast and crew? What type of camera is being used? If you don’t know if that camera is good or not ask a trusted filmmaker about it or research it yourself. Ask to see past work. Paid or unpaid? What will be required of you for said role.
- No matter what DON’T compromise your standards. No role is worth it and you’ll only regret it later.
- I highly recommend ALL actors get out and read tons of great plays and screenplays. If a piece has both a film and theatrical version read both scripts. Read the classics, Ibsen, Chekhov, Shakespeare and the current masters Mamet, Shepard, Stoppard etc. These will teach you what great stories and characters should look like.
- I recommend getting non-fiction biographies/books of those actors, films and directors you like and reading their stories. I personally love bios about classic stars like Grace Kelly and Vivien Leigh.
- Look up acting quotes often from those that know their stuff. It reminds you of the important things and reignites your fire.
- WATCH MOVIES & TV & study the actors!
- Common Things Yelled On Set and What They Mean by Meagan Flynn-Mesmer (document)
The Business of Acting
- Network anywhere and everywhere you can!
- Intern for a casting director. It demystifies that whole process and helps you network.
- Work in other areas of film other than acting because it will help you to become a better actor by understanding the bigger picture.
- Your personal and professional should be divided on facebook. They make pages you can start for your professional so you can still keep your profile personal.
- LinkedIn is a great resource for networking.
- Take classes and refer to recommended materials.
- Bobby Thompson on the Importance of Business Cards (document)
