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Performing Arts

Actor

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Primary Secondary Post-16

Actors bring stories to life by performing in plays, television shows, films, radio, or online productions. Their work involves interpreting scripts, developing characters, and conveying emotions to engage and entertain audiences. Actors may work in a variety of settings, including theatres, on film sets, or in recording studios. The career often involves auditioning for roles, attending rehearsals, and sometimes travelling or working unsociable hours. Success in acting often depends not just on talent, but also on persistence, networking, and sometimes additional skills such as singing, dancing, or stage combat. Many actors supplement their income with other jobs, as full-time positions are rare and much of the work is freelance.

Actor

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📊 Statistics

Median Salary

The average salary for an actor in the UK is around £25,000 per year, but this can vary widely depending on experience, location, and type of work.

Employment Numbers

According to Creative UK, there are approximately 73,000 people working in performing arts occupations, which includes actors, across the UK.

Job Competition

Acting is a highly competitive field; it is estimated that only about 2 percent of actors are working at any one time.

🚀 Careers in this path

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Theatre Actor

Performs in live stage productions, often working in theatres or touring companies, interpreting scripts and bringing characters to life for an audience.

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Voice-over Artist

Provides voices for characters in animations, radio, video games, and commercials, using vocal skills to create distinctive personalities.

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Film and Television Actor

Acts in films, television dramas, and series, working on camera to portray characters for a wide viewing audience.

Develop Acting Skills

Join Drama Clubs or Local Theatre

Participate in school drama clubs or community theatre groups to gain early acting experience.

Getting involved in drama clubs or local theatre is a fantastic way to learn the basics of acting. You will have opportunities to audition for roles, rehearse scripts, and perform in front of an audience. This early experience is vital for understanding stage presence, teamwork, and the overall process of putting on a production.

Take Acting Classes

Attend acting classes or workshops to improve your technique and build confidence.

Acting classes teach essential skills such as voice control, movement, improvisation, and character development. Many local theatres, colleges, and private studios offer group or one to one lessons. These sessions are also a good way to meet other aspiring actors and learn from experienced teachers.

Study Drama at School or College

Pursue GCSEs, A levels, or college courses in Drama or Performing Arts.

Formal education in drama or performing arts helps develop your understanding of theatre history, script analysis, and performance techniques. Qualifications in these subjects can also strengthen your CV if you decide to apply for drama schools or university courses later on.

Gain Professional Experience

Audition for Roles

Attend auditions for plays, films, commercials, or student projects to build your portfolio.

Auditioning is a key part of an actor's journey. Look for casting calls online, at local theatres, or through agencies. Even if you do not get every part, auditions help you gain confidence and learn how to present yourself to directors and casting agents.

Create a Showreel and CV

Prepare a showreel (video of your acting) and an acting CV to showcase your skills and experience.

A showreel is a short video compilation of your best performances, which you can send to agents and casting directors. Your CV should list your training, roles, and any special skills such as accents or stage combat. Both are essential tools for getting professional work.

Seek Representation

Find a talent agent to help you find professional acting opportunities.

An agent can connect you with casting calls for larger productions and negotiate contracts on your behalf. Research reputable agencies and ensure they are registered with the Personal Managers' Association or a similar body. Most agents will request your showreel and CV before offering representation.

Continue Training and Networking

Attend Drama School or University

Consider further study at a recognised drama school or university to refine your craft and gain qualifications.

Drama schools such as RADA, LAMDA, or Guildhall offer intensive training in various acting techniques, stagecraft, and industry knowledge. These courses often include opportunities to perform in front of industry professionals and can be highly competitive to enter.

Network in the Industry

Attend industry events, workshops, and performances to build connections with other actors, directors, and producers.

Networking can help you learn about new opportunities and get recommendations for roles. Professional organisations like Equity (the actors' union) offer resources and events for members to meet and collaborate.

Keep Learning and Improving

Take part in ongoing workshops, courses, or masterclasses to keep your skills sharp and adapt to new trends.

Acting is a lifelong learning process. As you gain more experience, continue to challenge yourself with different types of roles and genres. Staying current with industry trends and expanding your skillset can help you stand out and stay motivated in a competitive field.

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🎯 View Apprenticeships

Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Actor. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.

🎓 View Apprenticeships

Career Progressions

No career progressions found for Actor

Sample Qualifications

How to become

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • a college course
  • volunteering
  • applying directly
  • a course at drama school

University

You could do a foundation degree, degree or postgraduate diploma in a subject such as:

  • drama
  • performance studies
  • contemporary theatre and performance
  • acting
  • musical theatre

You could join your university drama or theatre society to develop a network of contacts and get performance experience.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • to pass an audition
  • at least 1 A level, or equivalent, for a foundation degree
  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

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College

There is no set entry route to become an actor but it may be useful to do a course like:

  • performing arts
  • drama and theatre
  • speech and drama

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for these courses vary.

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Volunteering

Acting is very competitive and you'll need to develop your skills by getting as much acting experience as possible.

You might get experience by joining:

  • amateur, community or youth theatre
  • college and university drama societies
  • student drama festivals and competitions
  • an agency to get work as an 'extra' for films and TV shows

Societies and theatre groups also help you meet other people in the acting profession. It can be useful to have contacts when looking for work.

Direct Application

You may be able to find work by applying directly for roles if you have a lot of experience and exceptional acting talent.

Other Routes

You can study with a private drama school or conservatoire. You can choose from full time courses, short courses and summer schools.

You'll need to pass an audition to get into a drama school. You may also need A levels or a Level 3 Diploma in Performing Arts. This is not always essential if you can show enough talent and commitment.

You could also take graded exams in acting, musical theatre and performance art at:

Funding

You may be able to apply for a Dance and Drama Award to help with fees and living costs at a private drama school.

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Career tips

You'll need to get as much experience of acting as you can. You can give showreels and headshots to agents and casting directors.

You may need another job to get the money you need while you search for acting roles or when you're between acting jobs.

Professional and industry bodies

You can join Equity who are a professional body. They can help you find jobs, training opportunities and contacts.

You'll need to have earned money from an acting job or be a student or graduate to join Equity.

Further information

You can find out more about careers in theatre, film and the creative sector from:

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