Getting Into Acting

As performers we begin our learning in many places -- at school, in community theatres, courses and workshops at studios, training centres like community colleges and universities or Theatre Ontario's summer courses and seminars.  For those interested in "getting into acting" we suggest many of these ways to begin.  Of course, it depends on where you live, the resources available in your community and the time available to invest in theatre activities and training.

For individuals beginning a career in the arts, Theatre Ontario offers its members courses and other valuable services for the beginning professional Getting Started sessions, one-on-one counselling sessions, Non-Union Talent Files (used by theatre and film companies looking for non-union talent), opportunities to participate in special events, workshops, summer courses and excellent summer courses.  Theatre Ontario's Talent Bank directory is a valuable resource of talented professionals who can assist with your theatre company's specific workshops needs.

Gone are the days when an actor is "just discovered."  Even the notion of "instant talent" is fading. Today, an actor has to actively promote him or herself and provide the appropriate information to agents, casting directors, directors and producers.  Photos are one of the key marketing tools used by an actor when selecting and recruiting an agent.  On average, agents receive 15 to 20 photos and resumes per day in the mail.  The photograph, known in the industry as the "8 by 10" (or the "headshot" or "glossy") is used by agents to promote the actor to casting directors and producers, as well as to promote the actor to the public and audiences.

Visit our Frequently Asked Questions for more information about getting into acting.

The Agents Book published by Theatre Ontario and AMIS provides timely information on what to look for when choosing an agent and how to get started in the business.  Copies of The Agents Book are available from Theatre Ontario 416.408.4556 and TheatreBooks 1.800.361.3414.  All the profits from The Agents Book support AMIS - Acting and Modelling Information Service Hotline 416.977.3832, an information database and website amisontario.com.