Actor
Entertain people by performing as a character in a story on stage or on film, television or radio.
About the job
Salary
Source: LMI for All
Weekly
£1,120
Average
Monthly
£4,480
Average
Yearly
£58,240
Average
2,100
people are currently employed
Low growth
100 more jobs in 5 years
These figures refer to this job and similar ones with comparable skills and qualifications. They only apply to Scotland. Source: Oxford Economics
What it's like
You would entertain people by performing as a character in a story, on stage before a live theatre audience or on film, television or radio.
You'd use your talent, empathy and imagination to bring the character to life. You'd memorise your lines and work with the director's instructions and other members of the cast to give your audience an enjoyable experience.
You'd use your voice and expression to show certain emotions. You'd work with the director to decide how the character will look and behave.
You would:
Research your role
Learn your lines
Rehearse the scenes to get the timing and stage positioning right
Attend fittings for costumes
You'd work with other professionals such as make-up artists, camera operators and directors.
For some roles you may work with the director to interpret the script. You will also need to very adaptable as you could be asked to play a number of different characters with different personalities.
You'd spend a lot of time preparing for and going to auditions and would probably need an agent to help you find the next job.
Hours
Environment
Travel
Explore more information about this job
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Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Here are some of the skills you'll need to do this job:
- recalling
- self awareness
- self esteem
- creative
- verbal communication
- networking
- cooperating
- persevering
- adaptability
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Dance
Drama
English
Media
Performance Arts
Skills for Work: Creative Industries
Although there are no formal entry requirements, most actors have studied a course in acting and performance many actors study performance at college or university.
To enter a relevant National Certificate or National Qualification courses (SCQF 2-6) is usually by audition but some courses ask for National 4/5 qualifications.
You can enter Higher National Certificate (SCQF Level 7) or Higher National Diploma courses (SCQF Level 8) with National 4/5 qualification and one to two Highers.
To enter a relevant degree (SCQF Level 9/10) requires National 5 qualifications and a minimum of three Highers at C or above, or a relevant HNC/HND.
Experience in amateur dramatics.
Check if Drama UK accredits or recognises the course. Courses approved by Drama UK can help when starting an acting career and also help towards membership of Equity.
To work in the industry most jobs require you become an Equity member.
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Actor'
