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We all need a little attention in life-to be in the spotlight, so to speak. Some of us just need a little more. So we become actors. Do you have a passion for performance? Great! Then you're already a good deal ahead of most. Here are some more pointers to help you along the way.

1) Choose a path-are you more of a stage or screen actor? If you're having a hard time deciding, remember that it may be easier to make the transition from stage acting to screen acting than vice versa. They are surprisingly different types of acting which require different methodology.

2) Hit the books. If you want to give acting a serious whirl, then you've simply got to know your Stanislavsky. There just ain't no two ways about it. His famous books "An Actor Prepares" and "Building a Character" are essential in understand the process of stepping into the skin of a different personality.

3) Watch masters in action. Rent films with actors you admire, or head out to the theatre when a show comes to town. Take into account what you think makes certain performances "work" and others not work. Emulation is fine! Beg, borrow, and steal tricks from everywhere you can.

4) Hit the classroom or workshop. Almost every university in the country has a Theatre Department. If you don't want to commit to a degree, they sometimes offer workshops to the community. Sign up today!

5) Audition, audition, audition. It's a hard business, and this is the only door to get in. You have to try and try and try, and you are likely to be turned down more often than not. But remember that passion we talked about earlier? It'll keep you going. Watch local papers and check theatre websites for what are called "cattle call" auditions. This means they make an announcement, and let every actor under the sun have a shot at the role. Get in there as often as you can, and director's may make note of your persistence and drive.

Break a leg!

Learn more about this author, Andrew Browers.
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