Actor
Were you born to perform? Entertain people by playing characters on television, film, stage or radio.

About the job
What it's like
Reckon you could become the next James McAvoy, Karen Gillan or David Tennant? As an actor, you'll entertain people by performing as a character. You'll do this on stage in front of a live theatre audience or on film, television or radio.
You'll use your talent, empathy and imagination to bring the character to life. Actors memorise lines and work closely with the director and other members of the cast. Together, you'll give your audience an enjoyable experience.
Your tasks might include:
researching your role, learning your lines and rehearsing scenes
working with other professionals such as make-up artists, camera operators and directors
collaborating with the director to perfect your character's image, behaviours and mannerisms.
communicating with the production team about your interpretation of the role and any concerns you have
spending time preparing for and going to auditions – you'll probably need an agent to help you find the next job
promoting your upcoming projects through publicity events and interviews with journalists
A good actor must be adaptable. After all, you could be asked to play a number of characters with very different personalities. Some actors also take on voice acting jobs for film, television, radio or audiobook projects.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Creative Scotland – enabling people to work in and experience the arts, screen and creative industries across Scotland
Screen Skills – explore the roles in the creative industries and routes into work
Scottish Youth Theatre – Scotland's national theatre for and by young people
Equity – career information from the UK trade union for professional performers and creative practitioners
Like the sound of this career?
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Actor'
Select qualification level(s)
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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.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta 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:
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Dance
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Drama
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English
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Media
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Performance Arts
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Skills for Work: Creative Industries
Although there are no formal entry requirements, most actors have studied a relevant course. A lot of actors attended college or university.
Always check if Drama UK accredits or recognises the course. Courses approved by Drama UK can help you start your career and get Equity membership.
Use the My World of Work course search to explore courses.
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you secure a job or progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Acting and Performance
Musical Theatre
Television
Creative Industries: Television and Film
Technical Theatre
University
A degree may be helpful for getting into this job. You could study subjects, such as:
Acting and Performance
Performance and Production
Musical Theatre
Acting for Screen
Film and Television
Drama
Theatre Studies
Work
If you think you're the perfect fit for a role, you can apply directly for acting jobs. Although, you'll need exceptional acting talent to land a part with no qualifications.
Other routes
Some actors study with a private drama school or conservatoire. You can choose from full-time courses, short courses and summer schools.
Experience in amateur dramatics will stand you in good stead.
Getting work experience in a relevant role can help you build the skills and experience you’ll need to become an actor. Search for opportunities on Volunteer Scotland.
Most acting jobs will require you to become an Equity member.
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Actor'
