Son wants to get into drama/be an actor

maggiesoop

Thanks to all who contributed. He has been in a couple of school plays and had good feedback from his teachers.He's also just sat his Highers (in Scotland) of which Drama and English were included, so fingers crossed, and he's continuing on to 6th year studying Drama, English and Media Studies.
He's hoping if he does well in his exams that he can audition to get into the RSAMD in Glasgow, I believe it's the best in Scotland?

This summer he's got into National Youth Theatre course in London (LABAN) in August for 2 weeks (although it's hideously expensive due to travelling & accommodation expenses) but hey, I'm really trying to help him realise his dream!

I showed him everyone's replies and he asked where you think he could get experience/training, he hasn't joined any amateur groups, just the school plays and one evening class a week at the local Youth Lyceum Theatre company.

Thanks again, everyone's been so helpful.

busiscoming2

I don't know if it is applicable in Scotland, but another option is to do a Btec National diploma in acting, this is worth the equivilent of A levels and so he would still be able to go to drama school or uni with it.

System

I know i've already replied but just want to wish him the best of luck I have massive respect for him and others (like my sister!) who are willing to follow their dreams. I truely hope he succeeds!

maggiesoop

belfastgirl23 wrote: »

If he's interested in acting for TV/film he could sign up with an extras agency. it's a good way to learn more about the business - my experience from being on set with a friend is that it is soooo boring - you wait forever, there's a take which is over in about 2 mins, then you wait, then repeat, wait repeat etc. He should experience this a few times before thinking he wants to be a tv or film actor

Sorry to ask this question so late after you posted the above, but how do you find about who is an Extras Agency in our area? Thanks.

belfastgirl23

maggiesoop wrote: »

Sorry to ask this question so late after you posted the above, but how do you find about who is an Extras Agency in our area? Thanks.

I know in Belfast we've had a few big calls for extras for things that are filming (eg Game of Thrones which is filming in Belfast at the minute). I'm not sure in terms of finding reputable agencies though apart from this. I guess google, try emailing a few and don't go with any that charge you for going onto their books

the other possibility would be to do an internship or something similar with a film or tv production company just to get on set. Normally unpaid but even if it was only for a week or two it would give him a view into the business. Probably the smaller the business the more chance of getting in. You'd want to know they were doing drama though and not just reality type stuff.

youluckypanda

maggiesoop wrote: »

He's hoping if he does well in his exams that he can audition to get into the RSAMD in Glasgow, I believe it's the best in Scotland?

This summer he's got into National Youth Theatre course in London (LABAN) in August for 2 weeks (although it's hideously expensive due to travelling & accommodation expenses) but hey, I'm really trying to help him realise his dream!

I showed him everyone's replies and he asked where you think he could get experience/training, he hasn't joined any amateur groups, just the school plays and one evening class a week at the local Youth Lyceum Theatre company.

Thanks again, everyone's been so helpful.

As someone who works in Scottish Theatre I'd recommend RSAMD, its the only dedicated performing arts institution in Scotland. RSAMD also run Dramaworks classes for all age groups throughout the year. I would stress to him not to be put off if he doesn't get in though, if its what he really wants to do. Many drama schools prefer applicants not to be fresh out of school, and to have a bit more life experience, but there are no hard and fast rules.

I'd say one of the best things he can do is to see as many different types of theatre as he can.

Best wishes!

[Deleted User]

Don't forget that many of the big city libraries will keep The Stage and the Actors Yearbook in their Reference sections so he can save money by not buying them.

HelenKA_2

There are a few good Am Dram set ups in Edinburgh. We are involved in Balerno Theatre Company, rehearse at Currie High School and show at Churchill theatre.

Unfortunately the website isn't up to date at the moment but if you'd like to get tickets for our panto 1st-4th Dec I can help you!

My eldest was/is very taken with the thought of doing dance/drama. She and DH are going to the careers fair at Queen Margaret's tomorrow (Sat). Hoping to persuade her that am dram can be great fun alongside a more conventional career. If she's that good she'll be spotted anyway and if not, she'll still have fun being involved in theatre.

Vaila

i have a few friends who go to the RSAMD, before that they used to go on drama workshops, school plays, some even got bit parts but i assume thats its a very hard career to succeed in and i think you have some god ideas, i think trying to get an agent though for the moment is a bit like running before you can crawl, all the best