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Acting is a profession which calls out to a person. Stories of the hardships and struggles an acting career entails can never dampen the enthusiasm of the real actor or actress. Such a person has to be in front of an audience and just cannot be happy doing anything else.
Acting is an intensely competitive field and it is in this profession, more than in any other, that the demand is really insignificant in proportion to the supply. Luck of all kinds plays a major role in establishing a person in this profession. To be known to the right agent/producer/director/talent scout at the right time under favorable circumstances is as important as being talented.
Entry into the profession is through various channels.
In the right social or professional environment interested parties may notice an untrained aspirant. A mentor in the world of theatre, film or television may be able to obtain a call for an audition for an untrained beginner. Significant amateur performances in local events may lead to a talented potential actor getting an opening. There is absolutely no guarantee of such a thing happening and it may not lead to a sustained tenure in the profession at all.
Modelling is a popular mode of entry into the acting world. Many of our actors and actresses have gained entry into film and television work by being noticed in the modelling scene. The requirements of modelling and acting are not really identical but the element of a ‘stage’ personality, a good sense of rhythm, being photogenic, an arresting face and figure, poise and professionalism are noticeable and important traits which lead to offer of acting assignments. After that it is up to the individual to acquire or develop other important traits, show interest, motivation and gain acceptance from the audience.
Complete exposure, training and education in acting are possible through degree/diploma courses in drama/acting available in the country in many important universities and institutes. Such courses are available or approached through aptitude tests, provided the minimum educational requirements are fulfilled by the aspirants/candidates
Educational requirements for these acting/drama courses are successful completion of the plus two or equivalent level of education. A good command over language is essential.
These full-time acting courses normally last two to three years. Admission is through audition, interview and aptitude testing. Previous participation in drama productions at the school level and/or with amateur organized groups is a prerequisite.
The entrance test may include a written component to assess an applicant’s knowledge and awareness of the world of theatre, films, television, as well as his/her power of expression in a language.
The practical component of the aptitude test would call for an oral analysis of plays provided, enactment of dramatic passages, display of skill in dancing, singing, playing of instruments, yoga, etc.
During the course students are trained in voice production, diction, movement, mime, verse-speaking, play analysis and play construction techniques for the various media. Initially this background work is given more emphasis than actual acting. Later on in the course more time is spent on carpentry, scenery changing, light designing and set designing. Students are trained in the art of makeup and also learn about different types of drama and acting techniques. Those who plan to do a full-time course should ensure that the course provides a good blend of theory and practical training.
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National School of Drama, Bahawalpur House, Bhagwandas Road, New Delhi-110 001 |
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(3-year diploma course in Dramatic Arts after graduation). |
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Film & Television Institute of India, Law College Road, Pune-411 004 |
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(6-month
short term Certificate Course in Acting-Film & TV) |
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M.S. University of Baroda, Vadodara-390 002 |
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Andhra University, Waltair-530 003 |
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Rabindra Bharati University, 6/4 Dwarakanath Tagore Lane, Calcutta-700 007 |
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Outstanding acting talent with a ‘stage’ personality is a natural perquisite. Other attributes important for the profession are good health; an iron constitution; innate grace; coordinated movements with a good sense of rhythm; an arresting countenance rather than beauty or balance of features; the ability to learn lines quickly and a good memory; a high degree of imagination and sensitivity to get the ‘feel’ of a role and to interpret it; versatility; abundant self-confidence; lots of energy; unbounded enthusiasm and optimism; from colleagues, producers, directors, mentors and critics, and preferably an aptitude for dancing and singing; a good, well modulated voice with proper diction and intonation.
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Prospects are not very bright except for the exceptionally talented and lucky few. The sudden invasion of the satellite television network, however, has widened opportunities significantly. Our film industry is also a very big one. Recently there has been a noticeable revival of interest in theatre too. Innumerable opportunities exist but the number of aspirants is so high that there are very few that are well established and have carved out a niche for themselves in the acting profession. The range of fees charged is so wide, and good luck and timing are so important, that there is little point in trying to give an idea of salaries.
Many of our talented actors/actresses who could or could not become bit names have diversified from acting to doing comparing for shows, contests, awards ceremonies anchoring and hosting as anchoring even educational programmes and have been highly successful and popular.
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