Blog Blog Posts

A diverse group of actors waiting to audition. Two are high-fiveing.
Jul 24, 2023

Casting Directors Share the Moment They Knew They Belonged in Casting

Many casting directors found their way into the entertainment industry through unconventional means. Others knew that this was what they wanted to do from a very young age. At some point, they all felt a connection to show business and… Read More

An African actress getting her headshots taken by a photographer.
Jul 19, 2023

Acting Headshot Tips and Acting Resume Tips

Lights up on…you! Your path to success—your hero’s journey—is just getting started, and it’s about to be a wild one. But whether you’re an experienced or new actor, the difference between getting your dream role or being another face in… Read More

Various stage actors performing in a play.
Jul 17, 2023

Mastering Authenticity: A Guide to Captivating Audiences and Landing Dream Roles

At face value, authenticity and acting may seem at odds. Acting is, at its core, pretending to be someone you’re not in a story that doesn’t belong to you. How can that possibly be authentic? The truth is, authenticity and… Read More

Krysten Ritter, who had a negative acting school experience.
Jul 12, 2023

Krysten Ritter and Gillian Jacobs’ Negative Acting School Experiences

As actors dedicate themselves to studying the craft of acting, it’s important to note that not all classes are the best match for everyone. What may feel like a supportive learning environment for some aspiring actors may feel like just… Read More

Two children smiling behind a purple curtain as parents watch their play.
Jul 11, 2023

Everything Parents Need to Know to Support Their Child’s Acting Ambitions

Helping your child cultivate their love for acting can feel like sending your sweet, wonderful progeny into battle in the middle of a minefield. As your child dreams of standing in the spotlight, your role is to become their guiding… Read More

An actress in front of a camera auditioning for a role.
Jul 5, 2023

How To Prepare for an Audition

Audition preparation is a vital and indispensable aspect of the performing arts world, serving as a crucial stepping stone for aspiring actors, musicians, dancers and artists of all kinds. With diligent and thorough preparation, performers can truly showcase their talents,… Read More

An actor in old time clothes delivering a monologue onstage during a play.
Jun 27, 2023

Tips for Performing Your Best Monologue

At an open house event hosted by Spotlight, our sister site, Joe Richardson of the Guildford School of Acting led a wonderful session on auditioning for drama school. Here’s a recap of Joe’s sound advice on how to get your… Read More

A group of diverse choir members singing.
Jun 26, 2023

What’s Your Vocal Range and Voice Type?

Casting professionals will often search for singers whose vocal range and voice type suit a particular role. Clearly indicating these fantastic skills on your resume is integral to landing that perfect job. All the musical terminology can be confusing, and… Read More

A nervous actress on an audition surrounded by lights, cameras and a mic.
Jun 20, 2023

5 Tricks to Manage Audition Nerves

When Dallas Buyers Club casting director Allison Estril was asked if casting directors can see past an actor’s nerves in the audition room, she recalled her own acting experiences. “This is a very good question. When I started out, I… Read More

Actors on stage performing a play. One recites a monologues, others sit in silence.
Jun 13, 2023

The Actor’s Job: Shining a Light on the Human Spirit

Every person has a story, and despite knowing this, there are moments when we may feel alone in our struggles as we navigate through our daily lives. But when we go to the theater, turn on the TV or watch… Read More

An actor on a blue stage giving a performance in front of a packed house.
Jun 12, 2023

Acting Coach Caryn West on the Importance of Knowing Your Character’s Function

What is your character’s function in the role and the scene? According to Caryn West, the answer to this question makes all the difference in giving a great performance. West is an acclaimed acting coach and teacher who is known… Read More

Actress Lupita Nyong'o smiling and striking a pose on the red carpet.
Jun 6, 2023

The Power of the Actor’s Giving Frame of Mind

Acting requires a deep emotional investment from the actor, which emerges from a profound commitment to the craft, plus collaboration with others to achieve a creative vision. It is a form of artistic expression that goes beyond rational calculations and… Read More

Twilight Actor Taylor Lautner in a suit and tie at an event smiling.
Jun 5, 2023

Should Actors Read Social Media Comments About Themselves?

Twilight star Taylor Lautner recently had a rude awakening when he checked his social media after an outing and saw a number of negative comments about him “not aging well.” In response, the actor posted a video where he said,… Read More

A bearded acting teacher training two of his students.
May 31, 2023

4 Insights for New Talent from Acting Coach Larry Moss

The legendary acting teacher Larry Moss has directed numerous theater productions and coached countless actors for stage and screen for over forty years. Among the celebrated talents he’s worked with are Helen Hunt on her Oscar-winning role in As Good… Read More

A vocal coach training one of her students.
May 30, 2023

Teachings of Master Vocal Coach Patsy Rodenburg

Patsy Rodenburg is widely regarded as one of the world’s leading voice coaches with over 40 years of experience of bringing people “into the center of their voice and presence.” She served as the Head of Voice at the Guildhall… Read More