Actors use speech, movement and body language to play the part of a character or interpret a script for a theatre, film, TV or radio performance.
You could be:
The figures below are only a guide. Actual pay rates may vary depending on:
Most actors are self-employed. Equity sets annual minimum rates for actors in both theatre and film, TV and radio. Rates vary depending on whether it is a rehearsal or performance and whether it is for film, TV, radio or theatre.
For example, the minimum weekly rate agreed between ITC (Independent Theatre Company Ltd) and Equity for a performance is £494.00. These rates are valid from 2022 to 2023. You can find details of all the current Equity rates under the 'Rates and Agreements' section of their website.
Actors working for a touring company may also get a lodgings allowance. You pay a reduced Equity subscription when you are not in work.
Many people believe this is a glamorous and well-paid job. This may be the case for a few actors at the top of their profession, but it is certainly not true of the majority and many have to do other jobs.
Workforce Employment Status
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You should have:
You also need:
The Scottish Youth Theatre offers an exciting and varied programme of classes, projects and performances throughout the year and throughout Scotland for young people aged between 3-25. Visit the Scottish Youth Theatre website for more information.
Take a look at The Stage online magazine for information on jobs and auditions. You can even download a Jobs and Auditions app for your iPhone.
Young Scot and Creative Scotland operate the 'Nurturing Talent - Time to Shine Fund', which aims to support young people aged 11-25 and interested in developing creative or artistic skills. Both individuals and groups can apply for funding up to £1,000. For more information see the Young Scot website.
The following organisations may be able to provide further information.
Creative and Cultural Skills
Tel: 020 7015 1800
Website:
http://www.ccskills.org.uk/
Twitter:
@CCskills
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/ccskills
Creative and Cultural Skills is the Sector Skills Council for advertising, crafts, cultural heritage, design, music, performing, literary and visual arts.
Creative Scotland
E-mail:
enquiries@creativescotland.com
Website:
http://www.creativescotland.com/
Website (2):
http://opportunities.creativescotland.com/
Twitter:
@CreativeScots
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/CreativeScotland
Equity
Tel: 020 7379 6000
E-mail:
info@equity.org.uk
Website:
http://www.equity.org.uk/
Twitter:
@EquityUK
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/EquityUK
Membership of Equity is open not just those in the acting profession but to anyone working professionally in the field of entertainment.
Mandy's Film and Television Directory
Website:
http://www.mandy.com
Twitter:
@TheMandyNetwork
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/Mandycom-157983937580165/
Site for all job vacancies relating to the performing arts.
Scottish Youth Theatre
Tel: 0141 552 3988
E-mail:
enquiries@scottishyouththeatre.org
Website:
http://www.scottishyouththeatre.org/
Twitter:
@ScottishYT
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/scottishyouththeatre
StarNow
Website:
http://www.starnow.co.uk/
Twitter:
@StarNow
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/starnow/
Website where performing artists, bands and promoters can get in touch with each other.