Breaking Into Acting: A Beginner’s Guide to Success
Embarking on an acting career without prior experience may seem daunting, but with the right mindset and approach, anyone can step confidently into the audition room. Whether you're a newcomer or transitioning from another field, here's a comprehensive guide on how to navigate auditions without acting experience. Here’s Aura Casting’s tips!
1. Your NOVELTY Holds Power:
One of the advantages of auditioning without acting experience is your unique perspective and life experiences. Embrace your individuality and use it to your advantage. Casting directors often seek authenticity, and your genuine qualities can set you apart. Lean into being a pliable artist, soaking up each and every new insight!
2. Research and Learn:
Immerse yourself in the world of acting by researching different acting styles, techniques, and terminology. Books, online resources, and documentaries can provide valuable insights into the craft, helping you feel more confident and knowledgeable during auditions. Some of the most fundamental literary works for emerging actors include “Respect for Acting” by Uta Hagen, “An Actor Prepares” by Konstantin Stanislavski, and “The Actor’s Life: A Survival Guide” by Jenna Fischer.
3. What Material Do I Use?
Find a monologue you love! You will inevitably need a monologue at some point in your career, and best to find it early. While scouring monologue books may be helpful for new actors, material from published pieces are primarily preferred in audition settings. Discover playwrights you love — Arthur Miller, Lorraine Hansberry, and Neil Simon have created iconic texts which have stood the test of time. Begin with the greats, they are well-loved for a reason! Just remember to find age appropriate characters whose arc can relate to your own life experiences. Finally, choose material which initially drew you to acting, constantly reminding yourself of the love for your art.
4. Practice, Practice, Practice:
Develop your acting skills through consistent practice. Work on scenes with your fellow performers or even try improvising. Practice not only improves your acting abilities but also boosts your confidence, making you feel more comfortable during auditions. If it takes 10,000 hours to master a craft, the initial step is in that first minute!
“If it takes 10,000 hours to master a craft, the initial step is in that first minute! ”
5. Attend Audition Workshops:
Look for audition workshops or classes specifically designed for beginners. These sessions often focus on audition techniques, script analysis, and understanding the industry. Attending these workshops can help demystify the audition process and provide valuable tips. Some San Francisco Bay Area workshops may be held through prominent organizations such as American Conservatory Theatre (ACT), Berkeley Repertory Theatre, San Francisco International Film Festival, or the Bay Area Playwrights Festival. At Aura Casting, We also host our own casting workshops!
6. Create a Standout Resume and Headshot:
Google Docs creates resume templates which are perfectly acceptable! Simply break your experience into previous performances, training, and special skills. A well-structured resume can draw attention to your strengths and inform casting directors not only of your previous experience but who you have collaborated with in the past. The business is smaller than you think and it proves helpful to expand your network of collaborators. As for headshots, professional pictures may be preferred but also expensive. If you are starting out, a picture of yourself through portrait mode on your iPhone will work for most auditions. Just remember to wear bright colors and find good lighting, with a solid background.
7. Be Open to Feedback:
Auditioning is a learning process. Be open to receiving constructive feedback and view each audition as an opportunity to improve. Use feedback to refine your skills and gain insights into areas that may need further development. Acting can be incredibly vulnerable and all artists continuously learn throughout the entirety of their careers.
8. Build a Supportive Network:
Connect with other aspiring actors, join online communities, and attend local events. Building a supportive network can provide valuable advice, encouragement, and even potential opportunities to collaborate on projects. You may find FaceBook groups, events via Meetup, or fellow growing students in an acting class. Many actors are extroverted individuals who welcome a fresh addition to the community!
In conclusion, breaking into the world of acting requires a combination of talent, dedication, and strategic planning. By developing your skills, seeking professional training, and actively pursuing opportunities, you can embark on a rewarding journey into the captivating world of acting. Remember, perseverance and a genuine passion for the craft will set you apart on your path to success.
Want to learn from professionals in action? Click here to view previous work from actors hired by Aura Casting!
Written by Whitney Hisako Moore
