Preparing for a Career in Acting: What Subjects Should You Study in High School?

As an aspiring actor, the journey to becoming a professional actor is filled with challenges, but also with opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. Your high school years are a crucial time to lay a solid foundation that will support your future ambitions. While there are no strict educational requirements to become an actor, certain subjects and experiences can greatly enhance your skills and broaden your horizons.

Why Study Beyond Academics?

While physical presence and talent are essential for an actor, the best actors are often those who are well-educated and intelligent. This doesn't mean you need to focus solely on academic subjects like history, language, and psychology, but rather that these subjects can offer valuable insights and tools for your craft.

For instance, psychology can provide you with a deep understanding of human behavior and thought processes, which is crucial for creating believable and engaging performances. Similarly, knowledge of history, language, and the arts can enrich your understanding of different cultures, time periods, and artistic styles, giving you a broader palette from which to draw inspiration.

Subjects That Will Benefit You

While there is no mandatory subject requirement to become an actor, certain subjects can be highly beneficial. Here are some key areas you might consider:

Drama and Theater Arts

Your high school likely offers a theater arts department. Enroll in this to gain hands-on experience and develop your skills. Participating in stage productions, rehearsal, and acting classes will give you the practical experience needed to build your acting repertoire.

Other activities worth exploring include Chorus, Dance, Drama, Public Speaking, and Stagecraft. These subjects will enhance your ability to perform and provide you with a well-rounded skill set that is highly valued in the industry.

Important Skills for Aspiring Actors

While studying the right subjects is crucial, you will also need to develop certain skills that are essential for a successful acting career:

Honing Essential Skills

Training: Actively seek out training in various aspects of acting, such as voice, singing, dancing, and public speaking. These skills are not only essential for your performances but also useful in building your résumé. Attention to Detail: Being meticulous and precise is crucial, especially when it comes to memorization and character development. Communication: Strong verbal and non-verbal communication skills are fundamental in conveying emotions and messages effectively. Creativity: Think outside the box and embrace your imagination to bring unique energy to your roles. Discipline: Discipline is key to maintaining a consistent practice and preparing thoroughly for auditions and performances. Physical Fitness: Acting requires a lot of physical energy, so staying fit and in shape can enhance your performance. Teamwork: The acting world is collaborative, and being able to work well with directors, fellow actors, and crew is vital.

Academic and Vocational Routes

Whether you choose to follow an academic or vocational path, certain subjects can significantly support your acting career:

Academic Path

Drama: An undergraduate degree in drama or theatre studies will provide you with comprehensive training. Theatre Studies: This subject can deepen your understanding of the history and theory of theater. Film and Fine Arts: Understanding both film and fine arts can provide you with a broader perspective on visual storytelling. Entertainment Industry Studies: Knowledge of the entertainment industry can help you navigate career opportunities and network effectively. Business Studies: Understanding business practices can be crucial for managing your career and financial well-being.

Vocational Path

BTEC Diploma in Performing Arts: Certified training can provide practical skills and industry insights.

Steps to Becoming an Actor

While there is no rigid path to becoming a professional actor, the following steps can guide you in the right direction:

Step 1: Take Classes

Engage in drama courses, acting conservatories, and other specialized training programs. These classes will help you build a strong foundation in various aspects of acting, including voice, diction, and stagecraft.

Step 2: Gain Professional Experience

Participate in school productions, community theater, and open mic nights. Building a portfolio of performances is crucial, and keeping recordings of your work can serve as a powerful tool for auditions.

Step 3: Acquire Additional Skills

Leverage classes to learn additional skills such as singing, dance, and musical theater. These skills can broaden your range of opportunities and make you a more versatile actor.

Step 4: Find an Agent

A credible agent can help you manage your career and secure auditions. Research agents to find the best fit for your needs.

Step 5: Be an Advancement in the Field

Continue to network, market yourself, and stay active in the industry. Joining unions like SAG/AFTRA can provide more substantial roles and recognition.

The outlook for actors remains competitive, but there are opportunities for growth and success. By preparing well in high school and pursuing the right subjects and skills, you can set yourself up for a successful career in acting.