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First of all, let's get one thing out of the way.

You cannot become an actor. It is either in you or it is not. It is a gift. You can work on it and make yourself better, just as any athlete or artist might, but if it is not within you, then forget it. If you do not believe me, just look at the hundreds of successful models, sports people and children of famous actors who have tried and failed to make it in the acting profession.

All right, so this article is for the serious, unknown young actors out there who are looking to become successful? In other words, get paid to perform.

This does not apply to young actors who are related or in any way connected to an established actor, director or producer, because the rules are different for those lucky few. They will absolutely get a chance to show what they are worth, and it's just a matter of whether they can cut it.

You must first decide what type of actor you wish to be. Do you want to act on stage? Do you want to be a movie star? Or in television; maybe soap operas?

For the purpose of this article, I will write about taking the theatre route, since many working film and television actors began their journey in that same way.

If you are interested in the stage route, it is very advisable to study drama at the best and most prestigious program that you are able to get into. I refer to such programs as Yale, Harvard and North Western. In England; the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts.

This is not only the place where an actor learns the business of acting, but the environment to make connections that may help them to further their careers. Many a now famous actor, began by being accepted at RADA or Yale, and has continuously worked in the profession, since. If you are good and lucky enough, you will almost certainly get your first professional job from one of those drama programs, because those students are constantly being taught and watched by professionals. This is definitely the most effective way to break into the acting business.

I mention luck, because it plays such a great part in the acting profession. It is luck, to be in the right place at the right time. Or to look just like a character in a best selling novel that is being adapted for a major movie. Luck might get you the chance, but you need talent to get the part. But also remember that many a successful producer or director has searched for fresh talent in The Actor's Studio or RADA, but not so many have looked in "Aunt Jane's Acting Academy" in Bakersfield.

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