10 Tips for Christian Actors to Improve Their Craft: A blog about the business of acting and how you can get into the industry, with tips from Christian actors who are already in the field.
1. Take classes.
My first big break in Hollywood was a film called “Fireproof,” starring Kirk Cameron. When I got on set, I noticed that they had hired a lot of people who were pretty new to acting, like me. I asked one of the producers why they’d done that, and he said, “Because we need real people in this film.”
And it’s true: Sometimes you don’t need an actor; you need someone to play a role who looks and acts like a real person would. But other times, you really do need an actor.
So if you want to act, take classes. Learn your craft. You have to be good at what you do when you’re put on screen or stage–and if all those other people are good at it too, then you’d better be really good!
2. Do theater or skits with your church or in your community
When I’m auditioning for a role, I want to see what kind of previous experience you’ve had as an actor–on stage or on
I recently had a chance to hear some Christian actors talk about their experiences in the industry. I took notes on what they said and thought about the questions people asked them. So here are my 10 tips for Christian actors to improve their craft, based on what I learned from these actors:
1. Learn your lines and be off book before you walk into an audition.
2. Research the character, but don’t overact or make choices that are too extreme.
3. Be yourself and show people who you are as a person. You can’t fake it! People will see right through you if you do.
4. Be humble, not arrogant! Remember that it’s not about you; it’s about God using you for His purpose.
5. Practice all the time, even when you’re not working on anything in particular, because someone important may see you at any time and offer you a job!
6. Audition for everything you can get your hands on, even if there’s no pay or if it’s far away from where you live, because even auditions can lead to jobs!
7. Network as much as possible with other actors and casting directors so that they remember your name when they need someone for a part!
The thing I love most about Christian actors is that they are so passionate about their faith and their craft. They want to be in the business, but they also want to live out their faith on set. If you’re one of those people, this article is for you!
I’ve been a professional actor for over a decade now. I’ve worked on television shows, films, commercials and stage productions. And now I’m spending my time helping Christian actors get into the entertainment industry through my blog and podcast, which are available right here at Movieguide®.
Here are a few tips to help you improve your acting craft.
1. Take classes.
2. Watch movies, read plays and know your history.
3. Attend industry events (like the Christian Film Summit in Carolinas)
4. Improvise every chance you get (try the Groundlings in LA or The Hideout Theatre in Austin)
5. Get a headshot, build a website and start marketing yourself through social media.
6. Find an agent who shares your beliefs and values and is actively working in the industry and can help you get auditions for projects that fit your profile and skill set.
7. Stay fit and healthy, but don’t be obsessed about the way you look (it’s not just about how you look but how well you act).
8. Read the script from beginning to end before accepting any role, especially if it’s an indie project that may have graphic elements, excessive profanity and/or objectionable content that goes against your personal convictions. Always say no to nudity, even artistic nudity like in art house films or documentaries that involve nudity of any kind (even if it’s “for art’s sake”).
9. Keep God first in all things, ask Him for wisdom, discernment and
1.Take classes to learn the basics.
2.Join a group to get experience and help with your craft.
3.Go to acting schools to improve your skills for working in TV and film.
4.Make sure you have an agent, manager or both before you try to work as an actor.
5.Read books and watch DVDs on acting techniques and industry tips.
6.Watch films and television shows in which you admire the actors’ performances, then study those performances to see what they do that works well for them.
7.Create your own opportunities to act by teaming up with a friend who writes screenplays or entering contests that give winners a chance to be featured in television shows or films (such as Project Greenlight).
8.Study screenplays of films that interest you by watching the films and learning how scenes are blocked and shot from different angles, then write your own scripts for practice (and possibly even production).
9.Network with other actors, casting directors and producers in person and online through social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc.
10.Check out Christian casting boards at websites like ChristianCastingCallBoard
A few weeks ago I posted an article on how to make a demo reel, and since then I’ve had several people ask me how they can get started in the acting business. So here are ten tips to help you launch your career!
1.) Take Classes – You should always be working on your craft. It’s a lifelong journey of discovery, and you’ll never stop learning. I’m still taking classes and workshops for my own improvement. Find a good local class or teacher, or check out some of the online options that are available.
2.) Get an Agent – If you’re looking for work from home, you won’t have to worry about this one (although it’s still a good idea). But if you’re going to audition for professional projects, chances are you’ll need an agent to submit you for roles. Be sure to do your research before signing with anyone!
3.) Write and Perform Your Own Material – If there’s a particular type of role you’re interested in playing, write it yourself! Put on a show! Develop your own material so that producers and directors can see what kind of talent you possess. Plus it’s fun!
4.) Shoot A Demo Reel – You can get started by filming yourself with your phone, but
1. Have a clear understanding of what you want out of the business. What do you want to accomplish as an actor? Where do you want to go?
2. Develop your skills: work on your craft. You need to be honest with yourself and know your strengths and weaknesses.
3. Take classes, attend workshops, and hire a coach.
4. Network! Get known in the industry, develop relationships with professionals who can help you get where you want to go, and learn from those who are already there!
5. Be patient! This is a business that takes years of hard work and dedication before you see any results.
6. Don’t quit your day job (unless you can financially afford to)!
7. Always have a positive attitude and don’t give up hope! Don’t let rejection bring you down! The ups and downs of the business will take a toll on your emotions. It is important that you have something in your life that keeps you balanced…family, friends, faith, etc..
8. Always be prepared when auditioning for roles or meeting with people in the industry so that they see how serious you are about this career. Be professional at all times and in all situations (show
