So You Want To Be An Actor?

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This page features articles and references we feel
reflect the philosophy and teaching methods of the
National Acting School.

Visit often for regularly changing words of wisdom
that will motivate and inspire those pursuing acting
as a profession or hobby.

The National Acting School featured in article in Canberra Times

Click here to read a feature article on The National Acting School from the Canberra Times May 2008.

"Fall in love with the process and the results will follow. You've got to want to act more than you want to be an actor."Bradley Whitford ("The West Wing", "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip")

The Actors Handbook 
Are you looking for information about how to get acting auditions or how to become an extra?  Already in the industry and want to know more about how to meet casting directors or find out about film and TV auditions?  The Actors Handbook is a great
resource and good value at $34.95 plus postage with hundredsof tips from casting directors, producers, agents and drama teachers.  More >>>>>>>>

"An actor's Bible when it comes to who's who in the business of "Show-business" in Australia," Peter Sardi, acting coach

"One of the most valuable parts of the book is a series of helpful anecdotes, tips and tricks of the trade from an array of talent, on both sides of the table. The insights these working pros provide really are worth their weight in gold", Artshub website

"It really is the first totally comprehensive guide I've come across on getting into the Australian acting industry," Elizabeth Gibson, actor

The Actors' Handbook
 
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Racing Against Time by Danielle Carter

ED NOTE: Finally an Australian book about our industry that is easy to read and chock full of hints and tips for survival and success in this most difficult of professions. Higly recommended for all students!

How do actors find their marks without looking?

What is continuity and why is it important?

What is an ECU, a CU and MCU?

Where do you find your pick-up time on a call sheet and who do you tell if you have to leave the set?

What is 'crossing the line' and how do you find your key-light?

These and other mysteries of the film and television actor's craft are revealed in this comprehensive guide by Danielle Carter, an actor with over a decade of on-set experience.

With invaluable contributions by leading industry practitioners including Sigrid Thornton, Rebecca Gibney and Sue Masters, Racing Against Time reveals how to act naturally amid the storm of technical demands.  Written in casual and flowing style this book explains who does what, clarifies jargon and reveals the hard won tricks of the trade.

Covering all areas of the profession, from what the network heads of drama really think about actors and why a good actor can do a bad audition, to how to beat those unemployment blues.  Racing against Time is essential reading for any actor, from newcomer to veteran.  It's written by an Australian actor for the Australian industry.

It retails for $32.95 and is available at good bookshops including Electric Shadows Bookshop in Canberra City.