Unleash Your Inner Artist: The Journey to Becoming an Actor and Taking Control
Are you ready to step into the spotlight? In this installment of our series, renowned actor and playwright Janet Moran, known for her captivating performance in RTÉ's The Dry, shares her wisdom on the path to becoming an actor and the importance of self-motivation.
The reality of an actor's life is often a delicate balance between pursuing your passion and paying the bills. With more aspiring actors than available roles, many find themselves navigating the challenges of making ends meet. But fear not, for Janet has some insightful advice!
When the stage lights dim, it's time to explore other avenues. In her early career, Janet juggled waitressing, temporary jobs, and careful budgeting to sustain her acting dream. But here's where it gets interesting...
A kind gesture from a friend led to a voiceover demo recording session, and this became a turning point. Voiceover work can be a lucrative side hustle, and creating a compelling demo is key. Whether in a professional studio or at home, aim to showcase your versatility in 2-3 minutes. Write your scripts or adapt radio scripts, focusing on a straight read and experimenting with different tones. Study ads to understand the nuances of various genres. And don't forget the fun of animation voiceovers and the potential for book narration!
A rising trend among young Irish actors is writing and performing their own creations. This is now an integral part of drama school training, empowering actors to become storytellers. Janet, reflecting on her journey, encourages actors to embrace writing earlier in their careers. By observing the structure of stories in rehearsals, actors can tap into their innate storytelling abilities.
But here's the twist: Writing has led Janet to international stages and film opportunities. So, why wait? Start writing and explore the many platforms available, like Scene & Heard and Dublin Fringe.
The art of resilience is crucial in the acting world. Learning to embrace disappointment and celebrate others' successes is essential. Stay connected, attend performances, and share audition opportunities. Remember, secrecy about auditions can hinder your growth.
And this is the part most people miss: Celebrate your wins and let go of setbacks. It's all part of the acting journey!
But wait, there's more! Dive into Janet's world by watching The Dry on RTÉ Player and exploring our Get Creative section for more inspiration.
