I want to become an actor, how do I do it?

[Kendodd]

I am in my early 40's and have always wanted to be an actor but never done anything about it. I know this might give you all a laugh but I need to get a job so want to get paid as well, Any advice?

[DanceInTheDark]

start off at a local theatre and see if u like it. It's not just learning lines and getting paid, there is more to it than that.

Not many people are good enough to do it for a living nut you will need an agent most likely - your local theatre should know a few or google will throw up some names.

If you aren't that good, well, there is always Hollyoaks

[QuintessentialShadows]

Do you have any experience from amateur dramatics? Local productions? Maybe go to drama school? Or just turn up at auditions?

[exexpat]

Sign up with an agency that provides extras for film and TV? I've heard the hours are long, jobs very irregular but pay is OK.

But in your 40s without drama school, experience and equity card I would guess properly paid speaking parts are, um, unlikely to say the least. My SiL is a trained and experienced actor (been in a lead role in the West End etc) now in her 40s and gets two or three proper acting jobs a year.

[Kendodd]

Thanks I will try some of those. I might get lucky, I'm usually quite a lucky person but one things for sure, nobody is going to knock my door and give me a job.

[melpomene]

I agree that it would be an uphill struggle to find paid work acting on the stage; you will be competing against people of the same age who have a lot more experience.

Have you considered something like being a children's party entertainer? Then you would be putting on a show and getting paid for it, and you could start by using existing contacts/word of mouth. Probably still quite competitive, but less competitive than trying to be a stage actor.