Acting Career Expert Advice: Training

There are, of course, many factors that contribute to the success of an actor, and as our acting career expert instructor John Walcutt shares in this video message, the best thing you can do to launch your acting career…is train!

Here is some acting career expert advice regarding how to choose the right training program and teacher for you:

Explore the best technique for you

Are you a very analytical actor who loves breaking down scripts….but perhaps struggles when it comes to movement and improvisation?  Or are you the opposite: you love diving into the emotions and expressions of a character before doing all of your analysis and prep work?  Know your strengths, and choose a technique that will help you to grow the most as an actor.  Some techniques are “method” based, meaning that you will draw on your own life experiences (check out our post on method acting). Others are most imagination-based, meaning that you create and work from imaginary character memories.  And some techniques work externally, from the “outside in,” meaning that you start with an external expression before doing any type of character or scene analysis.  Definitely do your research, and choose the approach that is the best fit for you!

Audit a class

These days, a lot of studios are offering classes online! If there is a particular studio you want to check out, give them a call, and see if you can audit a class online or in person. This is, honestly, the best way to find out if a particular teacher is a good fit for you.  Some acting studios do not allow audits, but they do offer one-on-one coaching. You could book a private coaching session to try out a new teacher.  3-2-1 Acting Studios in Los Angeles actually offers a free introductory class! You can fill out this form for more information. Our acting career expert advice is to definitely – when possible – try before you buy!

Seek a supportive training environment

Here at 3-2-1 Acting Studios in Los Angeles, we are of the mindset that acting training should be a fun and uplifting experience for all! If we aren’t having fun, then why are we doing it?  Above all else, make sure that your acting instructor is supportive, uplifting, and encouraging.  This is especially important when it comes to choosing a class for a young child.  You want to feel challenged, yet nurtured, in your growth as an actor.

Practice, practice, practice!

Of course, you will get out of your acting training program exactly what you put into it!  Our acting career expert teachers all say the same thing: it’s very important that you dedicate yourself to regular training and practice.  Have a family member read lines with you so that you can work on your scenes at home. Practice recording yourself on your camera, and watch yourself back. Even better: meet up with a classmate in person or on zoom so that you can prepare for class together!

Enjoy your training.

We at 3-2-1 Acting Studios sincerely hope that you find the training program that is the best fit for you.  May you take your career to the next level!