Article Noodle

The answer: You already are. We all are. Even the most bland and boring librarian plays many different roles in life, depending on who she's with. She flatters her boss, disciplines her kids, pampers her husband, seduces her lover, and bickers with her parents.

But something tells me that wasn't the answer you were looking for. Maybe a better question would be this: "Adam, how do I get to be a working actor? I don't have any experience."

The answer: You must prove yourself.

Acting is a business. And people only do business with those that they know, respect, and trust. For example: Why do you think every Christopher Guest film has the same actors in it? Because they're all friends, sure. But also because he knows that they're talented, they'll show up on time, and they'll be ready to work.

So that begs the next question: How do you prove yourself? How do you show the powers that be that you're reliable? Industrious? Talented?

Well, the bad news is that it takes some time and effort. Then again, anything worth doing/getting/being doesn't happen overnight. Rome wasn't built in a day.

But the good news is that it's completely within your control. Because, just like any other industry, the acting biz is tiny. So when you start attending auditions, you'll run into the same casting directors over and over. (You'll also run into the same actors over and over, but we'll save that for another article.)

If you audition often, and audition well, the powers that be will start to notice you, call you by your first name, ask how you're doing. In short, they'll take an interest in you (and hopefully your career). And that may lead to a job. Which leads to another job, and another. And before you know it, you're actually getting paid to be an actor.

By the way, this principle applies on every level of the business, from community theatre, to Broadway, to the MGM Studios. And that's important. Because, if you are completely new to the world of acting, your name probably won't be lighting up a marquee in Times Square anytime soon. So find out how to get involved with your local community theatre. Volunteer backstage, usher, help with advertising, whatever it takes. Then, the next time they hold auditions, march in there and wow them with a monologue from As You Like It.

Wanna know how to become an actor? The secret is out: Audition often, and audition well.

If you're serious about breaking into the acting biz, you can find open casting calls in your area. But it's not enough to just show up, you have to be good. Learn how to ace your acting auditions and book the job.