For would-be screen actors, breaking into Hollywood can be a challenge.
Acting can be a difficult business in which to gain a foothold and get one's "break." However, one big role can open the door to many more. Putting in the work is essential to securing your big break, as rarely will it simply fall into your lap. By working hard and pursuing your dreams of acting, you increase your chances of finding the ideal role for you that will likewise catapult you into the realm of established and well known actors.
Instructions
1. Hone your skills as an actor by reading literature on the various fundamentals and techniques in acting. To land a big role you must be prepared, and that includes doing the research and the homework involved.
2. Practice your acting skills and build your acting credentials. Join a local theater group or drama club. Volunteer for non-profit performances. All performances will gain you exposure as well as experience, both of which can help your chances at landing a big role.
3. Find a good studio photographer and get head shots taken. Pursue an agent to represent you. Agents will have access to many more connections than you will typically be able to get on your own. Check into an agent's background before signing with him by researching the Better Business Bureau. Look for an agent who is part of a union. Union membership is a generally an indication of legitimacy.
4. Attend any auditions you are granted, and always arrive well prepared for the role. Research the part, the production and those involved in producing and directing the production. Knowledge about the role, about those involved with the role, and about the production itself can help improve your audition. Having some basic awareness of the situation also helps you to impress those casting it, if you get an interview or if you have the opportunity to engage in simple small talk.
5. Network with the acting community. Whether the individuals are local members of the community theater, theater majors or drama majors in college, or just people you meet in passing in auditions, anyone has potential to help advance you or connect you to your big break. Be friendly and courteous to everyone you meet in the business and exchange contact information with as many people as you can.
