Actor

Last updated: 28 Feb 2023, 15:36

An actor performs parts within dramatic pieces of work such as films and plays.

woman working on a tablet

Actors use creative thinking to interpret scripts, research characters and roles, and perform to entertain, inform or instruct audiences. Their work requires collaboration with other actors, directors, playwrights and a variety of other crew members. Actors must follow instructions given by the director of a piece. They must be able to portray a whole spectrum of emotions through body movements, gestures and speech.

Work conditions

Travel: will vary depending on where work can be found.
Working hours: irregular; can involve evenings and weekends.
Location: relocation to capital cities is highly likely to be in the best position for auditions.

Entry requirements

A degree in the performing arts can be beneficial, however it will not guarantee entry into the industry.

Further information

Periods of unemployment are inevitable in the acting industry and few achieve stardom. Actors will often have to generate income in other ways. Institutions such as The Gaiety School in Ireland offer courses in acting which may be beneficial.

gradireland editorial advice

This describes editorially independent and impartial content, which has been written and edited by the gradireland content team. Any external contributors featuring in the article are in line with our non-advertorial policy, by which we mean that we do not promote one organisation over another.

People reading this also searched for roles in these areas:

undefined background image

We've got you

Get the latest jobs, internships, careers advice, courses and graduate events based on what's important to you. Start connecting directly with top employers today.