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Actor

Actor Image

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.

The Work

You could be:

Pay

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.

Conditions

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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Getting In

Workforce Education Levels (UK)

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Job Outlook Scotland

Employment

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Job Outlook Scotland and UK

  Scotland
2022
623
3.7 %
FALL
2027
601
  United Kingdom
2022
11125
1.9 %
RISE
2027
11333

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What Does it Take?

You should have:

You also need:

Training

Getting On

More Information

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.

Video

Contacts

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.

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.

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.

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