New York City is a dream destination for both aspiring and established actors. From Broadway to indie productions, the Big Apple is packed full of opportunities, but the competition is high. Here’s a checklist to help you thrive in NYC’s world-famous acting scene.
1. Perfect Your Headshots and Resumes
Your headshot is your calling card, and in a city like New York where casting directors see thousands of actors, it needs to stand out. Invest in professional New York actor headshots that showcase your range and unique personality. Pair them with a polished resume, and don’t forget to update both regularly as your career progresses.
2. Keep On Top of Auditions
Finding auditions in NYC can feel like a full-time job in itself, so use all the tips and tricks you can to stay ahead. Casting platforms like Backstage, Actors Access, and Playbill are great places to find casting calls. Keep an eye on local theater boards and independent film announcements for opportunities beyond mainstream projects.
3. Commit to Continuous Training
There’s always room for improvement, so be proactive and hone your craft regularly. There are workshops and classes to suit every budget and skill level around NYC. Regular training not only sharpens your skills on camera but it provides opportunities to expand your network as well.
4. Grow Your Network
Connections can make or break your acting career. It’s important to attend industry events, join actor meetups, and mingle with other actors and industry professionals. Remember, your next big gig might come from someone you met at a casual networking event.
5. Be Budget-Smart
New York is many things, but cheap is not one of them. Given that pursuing an acting career isn’t typically a high-paying endeavor, it’s wise to budget carefully. Plan your finances ahead of time, including setting aside money for housing, transportation, and career expenses like classes. Consider sharing an apartment to save costs, and make use of free resources like public libraries.
6. Prioritize Your Well-Being
The constant grind of performing, auditioning, and juggling a job to support yourself can take a toll on your health. Make sure your self-care doesn’t fall by the wayside and carve out time for wellness activities like exercise and meditation. Whether it’s a yoga class or just a walk through Central Park, mental health is just as important as physical health, and without it, you won’t be able to give your best performance.
7. Diversify Your Skillset
The math is simple: the more skills you can bring to the table, the more roles you’ll qualify for. Consider taking classes in areas like improv, stage combat, voice acting, or dance to broaden your repertoire.
8. Explore New Opportunities
New York is a city of endless possibilities, so don’t hesitate to branch out to things outside your comfort zone, whether that be indie films, web series, or even starting your own creative project. These varied experiences help build your portfolio and can lead to unexpected collaborations with emerging talent.
Endnote
Making it as an actor in NYC requires a lot more than tenacity; you need a bit of luck and a whole lot of tenacity. Keep your self-promotional materials up to date, constantly develop your skills, and always be making connections. By following this checklist, you can stay on track to build your career in this ever-evolving industry.