How Can I Develop My Talent and Grow as an Actor?
By Doing
Actors act. Even if you’ve graduated from drama school and are waiting for your next role in a production, it’s important to stay active and find opportunities to keep performing. Your muscles need to stay warm, both physically and mentally.
If you have less experience, it’s also essential to put in the hours. By doing so, you don’t just train your craft, but also develop insight and professionalism.
No matter your level, always look for a place to perform and ask yourself: “What can I work on today for myself?” That mindset will keep you moving forward. The short advice is: just do something.
Education
A school is, of course, an excellent place to develop your skills, and there are countless theater programs to choose from. You can easily search online for a course that fits your needs.
If a full-time program isn’t the right path for you, there are alternatives. A Dutch example, De Nederlandse Acteursschool offers a six-month program with weekly lessons taught by well-known professionals from the television and theater world. It includes a study plan, though it’s less strict and structured compared to a full-time drama school. Many participants attend simply for the love of acting, but if you are good at setting your own learning goals and staying focused, you can gain a lot of extra value.
There are also many short-term acting programs available. Popular options include summer acting courses in London, New York, or Los Angeles, a valuable experience and a great addition to your CV.
Workshops and Training
If you are a Dutch professional actor and a member of Acteursbelangen, you can participate in several workshop weeks each year. These are already subsidized, so for a small fee you can follow inspiring one- or multi-day workshops. It’s also a great opportunity to reconnect with professional colleagues you’ve worked with before—or would like to work with in the future. Networking, exchanging ideas, and staying informed about new projects is invaluable.
“What are you working on right now? I saw your new release—what was it like working with that producer?” Conversations like these help you grow.
Not a member, or looking for something else? Don’t worry—there are plenty of other workshops and training programs available. For professional actors, it’s worth keeping an eye on masterclasses as well.
Subsidies and Funding
There are regularly new initiatives that allow you to receive funding for your professional development. For example, if you are already working as a professional, Werktuig PPO in the Netherlands offers a 40% subsidy for workshops, training programs, and courses, with a maximum of €2,250 per year.
Work on Your Physical and Mental Health
-
Physical preparation: Acting can be physically demanding, especially in intense or physically challenging roles. Maintain a solid training routine (such as yoga, dance, or strength training) to keep your body in top shape.
-
Mental health: Acting can also be mentally taxing, particularly when portraying complex or emotionally heavy characters. Techniques such as meditation, mindfulness, and relaxation exercises can help you stay sharp and manage stress.
Stay Passionate and Inspired
-
Read and watch a lot: Study the work of other actors, directors, and writers. Read books, watch films, and attend theater productions. This keeps you inspired and introduces you to new techniques and ideas.
-
Find inspiration in daily life: Much of acting comes from personal experience. Observing and learning from the people around you can add depth to your performances.
-
Join professional networks: Become a member of organizations such as Acteursbelangen (Netherlands) or Spotlight (UK). These not only provide access to auditions and casting calls but also connect you to a community of inspiring professionals.
-
Collaborate with other creatives: Work with fellow actors, directors, writers, and artists. Such collaborations can spark new ideas and open doors to opportunities.
-
Learn from every experience: Even when you don’t land the role you wanted, each audition and project offers lessons that make you stronger.
Become a Maker: Create Theater or Film
Tired of waiting for opportunities? Become a creator yourself. Write your own play or produce your own short film. Easier said than done, but again, the key is: just do something.
You can start small—perform at a local stage, festival, or community event with your own production, and gradually build towards bigger projects. With film, it’s even more accessible nowadays: everyone can shoot with a smartphone. Record scenes, upload them online, and learn by doing.
Events like the 48 Hour Film Project challenge teams to create an entire short film in a single weekend—from writing to shooting, editing, and scoring. It’s a fantastic way to gain experience, sharpen your skills, and connect with passionate creatives.
Important for Everyone
Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out, there are things you can do that require no special talent, yet will make you more desirable to work with.
1. Be on time
2. Work ethic
3. Effort
4. Body language
5. Energy
6. Attitude
7. Passion
8. Openness to coaching
9. Do something extra
10. Be prepared
© Copyright Dolf Bekx – ActorsQ