Actor

An actor's job is to bring to life characters created by playwrights and scriptwriters. They interpret their role with guidance from a director and perform either in front of a live audience, usually in a theatre setting, or for TV, radio or film.

A great deal of an actor's working life is spent rehearsing and preparing for performances. They also need to research their characters, learn their lines, and prepare for and attend auditions. They attend costume fittings and also spend time in make-up. Most actors spend time out of work and they have to work hard finding their next job. Having a variety of skills can make finding work easier.

An actor's working hours may be long and irregular, and may include evenings and weekends. Actors may work in a theatre, community centre or concert hall or in TV, radio and film studios. They may also work out on location in all weather conditions.

Many actors work for very little pay, especially at the start of their careers. Actors in West End theatres earn around £500 a week. TV and film actors' earnings depend on the size of the part and on their reputation and experience.

Actors need:

• talent
• to be self-disciplined and hardworking
• to work well in a team
• a strong, trained voice
• an interest in performing and the art of acting.

Most acting jobs are short term. Even experienced actors can find it hard to make a full-time living, and many people find they need to do other part-time work to supplement their income. There are acting opportunities in theatres, films, television and multimedia productions, commercials, theatre in education, and clubs and variety.

There are no set entry qualifications. However, a large number of professional actors have trained, often in specialist drama schools. To get on a drama course, all applicants must go through one or more auditions. Drama schools have links with agents, casting directors, production companies and broadcasters, giving students the chance to be seen by potential employers.

It is important for actors to continue to develop their skills throughout their careers.

An actor's prospects depend on talent, self-discipline, the right image, contacts and luck. They may be offered more important roles, or get to choose their roles, through hard work and consistently good performances.

Some actors move into directing, producing, writing or teaching.

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