Actor
What does an actor do?
Actors are skilled performers who entertain audiences by depicting character roles in dramatic productions. As an actor, you would be required to attend auditions, interpret scripts, memorise dialogue and rehearse to prepare for performances. Your work can take place in a variety of settings such as theatre, film, television, opera, radio, youth theatre and community productions. Alternatively, you might be interested in completing further education and training to become a secondary school drama teacher.
Is acting right for me?
As an actor, you'll need a strong dedication to your craft, the discipline to learn and memorise lines, and a talent for storytelling. Strong collaboration skills and the ability to take direction are also essential for bringing characters and stories to life.
Other key skills and attributes that are beneficial for an acting career include:
Creative expression, storytelling and original thinking.
An ability to manage change positively and perform effectively in changing environments.
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
An ability to work effectively and collaborate with a range of stakeholders.
The ability to work effectively in demanding, practical, or physically challenging environments.
How to become an actor
Most actors begin their career with training through drama schools, workshops, or university programs. Building a strong portfolio, including a showreel and professional headshots, is essential. Aspiring actors should gain experience by auditioning for local productions, short films, or community theatre, which also helps establish industry connections. Persistence and dedication are key to breaking into this field of work.
How to get into acting and what to study is individual in nature, and there are several paths you can take to pursue your career. Here is one pathway you could take to becoming an actor:
- Complete a bachelor's degree in acting, theatre, performing arts or a related field.
- Gain practical experience through performances, productions and auditions.
- Build a professional portfolio, including headshots and a showreel.
- Audition for stage, screen and voice acting opportunities.
- Build industry connections and continue developing your acting career.
How long does it take to become an actor?
The time it takes to become an actor depends largely on the path taken. While some actors can enter the profession without formal study, a Bachelor of Theatre is a commonly attained qualification that usually takes three years of full-time study and can provide valuable training and industry experience. Career progression varies, with factors such as networking, experience, talent, and opportunities impacting how quickly you can secure acting roles.
Start your journey with UniSQ
Start your acting career with a UniSQ performing arts degree and gain the practical performance and creative skills needed to engage audiences and bring stories to life.
Responsibilities and work settings
Studying, reading, and interpreting scripts to convincingly portray characters.
Researching roles and characters, understanding themes and context.
Memorising lines and cues, applying vocal and movement variety.
Rehearsing for performances under the guidance of production directors.
Networking with agents, directors, producers, writers, and other industry contacts to gain work.
Arts and creative organisations
Media, publishing and broadcasting organisations
Primary and secondary schools
Museums, galleries and heritage institutions
Non-profit, charity and community organisations
Actor FAQs
Related careers
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