FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT AN ACTING CAREER
I’m thinking about full-time acting training. How does your course differ from the other drama schools like NIDA, WAAPA, VCA and QUT?
ACA has a vastly different philosophy, culture and environment than most of the conventional drama schools. As we are not a part of a larger university or campus, we have a highly personalised approach and connection with each student in the program. There are no other courses such as design, production, costumes etc. to cater for in our facility OTHER than the acting course. Therefore all the energy and focus remains on the needs of the course and the specific needs of each individual.
Our focus is not on production values but actor-driven, image-based, hand-crafted theatre. We spend the majority of the time concentrating on the skills, abilities, processes and methods of acting that will equip the actor to enter the industry at industry level or above.
We are committed to graduating each actor we accept into the course provided they do the program as offered, keep up with the research/homework, and continue to develop the skills, techniques and temperament in accordance to industry needs. Therefore our actors are not trained within a context of fear, competition and/or proving their worth. The space is clear for genuine investigation, surrender, risk-taking, exploration and deep understanding of the art and craft of acting.
Finally, our staff is as passionate about the art of acting as they are about the art of education. WHAT is taught can be as important as HOW it is taught and WHY it is being taught. All of our staff are working professionals, there to empower each actor in every way possible, and to create an environment where pride, liberty, passion and faith remain at the heart of all there is to celebrate and aspire to in this truly amazing industry.
I’m not sure a professional ‘actor’s centre’ is right for me. Will I feel comfortable and fit in?
ACA welcomes all with;
· a keen interest in
· a life calling for, or
· a passion and intrigue about the art of acting
Please note: ACA is an adult training Centre therefore, all students must be over 18yrs of age.
Whether you’re walking off the street and into an acting drop-in class for the very first time, or auditioning for our full-time program, you will feel welcome. Each ACA course is calibrated and focused towards each participant being able to achieve what he or she wishes to achieve.
From our introACTive classes and courses, to our premier part-time Power of Performance Program, to full-time study – we’re here to take you where you want to go.
If you are looking for a hands-on experience of ACA our premier part-time Power of Performance Program offers free Introductory Workshops. For more information CLICK HERE.
What are the Actors Centre operating hours?
- Monday to Thursday 9am-8pm
- Fridays 9am-5pm
- Saturdays 9am-5pm
Our reference library is open to all; however, only our full time students are able to borrow books. There is a photocopy service available at just 20c per sheet or 10c if using recycled paper.
How closely aligned is ACA and the industry?
The fact that ACA was set up by industry members specifically for the industry using only industry experts, means we have a very active and intimate relationship with the profession. We continue to be endorsed and supported by top-level actors, agents, directors, producers, casting agents, and eminent members of the entertainment industry. We pride ourselves on this relationship and the role we serve in the community. Ask people in the industry about ACA – you’ll get an honest answer.
Does the Actors Centre hire out rehearsal space?
Yes, however space is usually at a premium during our school terms. Please email our General Manager, Craig Hughes-Cashmore, at craigh@actorscentre.com.au for details and availability.
Do your acting tutors teach privately?
A number of our tutors can provide private tuition/coaching in the areas of singing, acting & audition preparation. To arrange this tuition, it’s best to call the Centre with your requirements and the admin staff will let you know who would be suitable and available. Your details will be passed on to that tutor and they will contact you with their availability and costs. Our Reception will assist you in contacting the appropriate tutor.
I’m making a short film and need some actors.
We have an audition notice board that is open to the public and the 400 + students who visit the Centre each week. Make up a notice with the type of actor/s required, audition dates, your contact details and some background on yourself and the project. Email us at info@actorscentre.com.au, fax or drop it in and we’ll put it on the board.
Can I advertise my show at the Centre?
We have several notice boards in our foyer, along with our auditions board there are places for flyers/posters advertising theatre, places for rent, items for sale, etc. Fax, drop in or post your notice to us and we’ll place it on the appropriate board for you.
How will I know which Program is right for me?
To choose the program that's right for you ask yourself these questions:
1. What do I want to achieve?
2. Why do I wish to achieve it?
3. What time and financial commitment am I able to make?
If you are after casual, inexpensive classes to keep tuned, or be introduced to ACA and the classes and tutors on offer here, introACTive Drop-In Classes are for you.
If you are looking to be introduced to specific areas of acting through a short course, look to the introACTive Short Courses.
If you are ready to make a solid commitment to your creative and personal exploration, Australia's premier part-time acting program, The POWER OF PERFORMANCE is for you. Intakes are in January or July, free introductory workshops are held in the month prior to each intake.
If you are hoping to undertake full-time acting training, audition for our full-time, industry endorsed and industry aligned JOURNEY PROGRAM.
If you’d like to discuss the options available to you, or have any questions, please call Reception – any of the staff will be happy to help and answer any further questions you may have.
Am I able to observe classes?
No – to maintain the integrity of the class’s atmosphere and focus, observers are not allowed into classes. However, we do run free introductory sessions to our premier part-time program The Power of Performance before each season's intake (December/June). This allows potential students to get an idea of the teaching philosophies, style and content of the program. We can also arrange for Andrew Lloyde, The Program director, to call you and answer any specific questions you may have about the course. Everyone is welcome to view our public performances throughout the year and these are both an insight into the work we do as well as a reflection of the contemporary training we believe in and are committed to here at ACA.
How do I get an agent?
The Actors Centre has a list of current Sydney agents which you can obtain for $1 from our Reception. You can send them your photograph, Showreel and CV and request a meeting - most agencies will then be in touch by mail. The market is quite over-crowded and most agents’ books remain CLOSED until otherwise notified. However, if you are in a production it is best to send an invite potential agents to come and see your work. There is quite a lot of fringe work on offer in and around Sydney which has sprung up over the past 8 years.
How can I get work as an extra?
There are specific agencies dedicated to finding people extras work (we have a list of these agents at the Centre). It’s just a matter of contacting them, sending in your 10’x 8’ photograph and your resume and arranging a meeting. Remember that you are not obliged to sign anything or hand over any money. The agent’s fee consists of a usual 10% commission taken from your earnings. If in ANY doubt, please contact the actor’s union (MEAA) for more information.
Where can I find out about auditions?
ACA has an audition board in our foyer where you can find upcoming audition notices for film, tv and theatre. There is no one publication in Australia, but there is a website that provides an audition and work opportunities listing for its members. Take a look at http://www.talentonline.com.au/ for more information. Otherwise just keep your eyes and ears open. Regularly check out performing arts institution’s notice boards, the Metro in Fridays & Saturday’s Sydney Morning Herald and talk to fellow actors to find out what casting sessions they’re going to.