STEP 2 of the road map series, “How to become an actor” is all about acting classes. When it comes to building a successful acting career, few things are more important than taking classes and learning different styles and techniques.
Acting is a collaborative art form, and the more you can work with someone else the better your “performance” will be. You’ll also have the opportunity to network and build relationships with others in the field. Plus, your chances of landing auditions and breaking into the industry with those connections are crucial. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to get started on your acting journey, no matter where you are in your career.
Besides becoming a stronger actor, did you know there were additional benefits for your career? Intrigued? Keep reading 🙂
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The Roadmap Series- Acting Classes
Why do I need to take acting classes?
While there are several reasons why you should take acting classes, it’s important to decide what exactly you want to do with your career. Remember in STEP 1 of “How to start an acting career, RESEARCH“, I suggested taking a moment to decide if this was something you’d like to do with your friends, at school, on social media, or in local commercials? In other words, do you want to act as a side gig or hobby, or do you want a full-time career as an actor?
If you’re looking to have a career as an actor it’s highly recommended to get into acting classes that will keep you ready to go for all types of roles that come your way.
Acting classes can help you with-
- Learning to memorize your lines quicker
- Focusing and blocking out distractions
- Determining who your character is and where they are in their life
- Storytelling
- This is your time to practice and try new things
- Networking with other actors, teachers, photographers, directors, etc.
- General knowledge about the entertainment industry as a whole
- Learning who YOU are as a human being
Where to find an acting class?
Now, where to find acting classes near you? Well, the good thing is, ever since the pandemic, the entertainment industry has adapted to new ways of auditioning and taking classes through online platforms such as Zoom. Yipee!
Now you have access to teachers and classes you may not of before if you happen to live outside of a bigger market. There are several reasons why I love online classes, but also several reasons why I don’t like them.
Pros
- Access! So many of your favorite classes and teachers are online now.
- You live in LA, but want to take that class in NY, no problem!
- Explore. If you’re new, this is a fantastic time to try an acting class, especially if you’re shy.
- We’re all trying to figure out this new way of life
- “I don’t want anybody I know to see me”, lol… with so many classes online, your chances are slim
- Resume. Build your resume from your living room!
- Cheaper. Less over head= lower cost for you
- Time. Easy to be at home, turn on your computer, and learn right from your home without having to sit through traffic
Cons
- Emotional Connection. It’s so much more difficult to connect with your scene partner while staring at them on a screen
- Internet Connection. No need to explain this one.
- Attention Span. “oh look, I got an email”…
- Price. This can go both ways. I’ve seen some classes that were charging less, but also some that were charging the same as if it were in person. :/
- Movement. Yes, you can move around in your room, but you end up feeling a little restricted with your movement and blocking
- Noise. I personally have found that I hold back because I don’t always feel comfortable being “noisy” in front of my significant other or neighbors. Eh, could just be me
Where to Find an Acting Class “Near Me”?
Ok, maybe an online class isn’t what you’re into. Perhaps, you’d like to get into an actual in-person class to really get things going.
What works for some people may not work for others. Luckily a lot of studios allow an audit so you can decide if you’d like to sign up or not.
I’ll have to write a whole other article on this topic in the future, but for now, here is a quick list of where to find acting classes near you.
Universities
Facebook Groups
Ask around/Use your network
Local Photographers
Local Talent Agencies
# Hashtags on Social Media
Major Networking Opportunities
Heck yes! I know it’s not one of the first things that come to mind, but there are huge opportunities to network in acting classes. What better way to learn about the industry than directly from those already in it. BONUS if they’re more advanced than you!
Maybe you even need a referral for some new headshots or even if you’re seeking representation. I have a feeling your teacher or fellow classmate may be willing to help you out.
*Did I mention that sometimes your classmates are also writers or producers? Or even directors who want to learn how to direct actors better?
Conclusion
To sum it up, I believe you should be taking acting classes for many different reasons. Often recommended as one of the best ways to enhance your career. Classes allow you to try new things, network with other professionals in the industry, learn how to work faster and more efficiently in learning lines, and discover new aspects of yourself as an artist and a person. If you’re looking to make your career in Hollywood more successful, then consider taking an acting class today.
Stay tuned for STEP 3 where we tackle, creating an actor’s resume!
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