Acting for Screen and Stage ATS

Holland Code: A (Artistic)

What academic skills do I need to be successful in the program?

This list does not replace the admission requirements you must have for admission to the program. Please see website for details.

Arts & Literacy: reading, writing and literary analysis & comprehension are important. It would be advantageous to have taken some media courses in prior education.

Math and Science: grade 11 math is acceptable Basic skills and understanding will be needed.

Technology: basic computer skills required (Microsoft Office, email, Internet).

What personal qualities should someone interested in this career have?

• A good work ethic.
• The ability to work with others with a collaborative spirit. 
• Tact and diplomacy.
• The ability to communicate and listen.
• The ability to accept, respect and work with diverse individuals, ideas and choices.
• The ability to handle rejection. The nature of the work involves many auditions that often go to someone else (for reasons that are out of the actors control).

Useful background experience for this program would be

Some experience on stage and or on camera would be of benefit, but is not a necessity.

What kind of work could I do when I graduate?

Graduates of this program may go on to become a

The professional opportunities for a performer in the arts and entertainment industries are vast and varied. These may include and not be limited to: Theatre, film, television, industrial and corporate video production, animation, video games (motion capture), commercials, education and training. As a voice performer, actors can also find work in dubbing, commercials, video games, narrations and audio books readings.

Places you may find yourself employed include

In most cases the working actor is an entrepreneur who must run their own company (with the assistance of an agent). The successful actor is constantly going out on auditions or updating their portfolio, looking for work that can range from a few hours to months of employment.

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

• Work from home (auditions and voice work)
• Work on multiple locations for film set work
• Work in film and audio studios
• Work in a rehearsal space or at a Theatre.
• An actors job can often be physically demanding, involve long days with irregular hours and require a great deal of focus.

Tasks a graduate may do in the workplace

• Self Promotions
• Auditions
• Learning lines
• Rehearsing
• Performing (plays, films, television series, videos, video games, voice work)

Helpful links for further research into this Fanshawe College program and career opportunity

• EQUITY - Canadian Actors Equity Association - for stage / live work)
• ACTRA - The Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists)
• Fanshawe’s library has prepared a subject guide for current students in this program. You may find the links and information provided very useful in learning more about this career.

Last Modified: November 22, 2022