Does anyone know the best way to break into acting for a wheelchair user?

Question:I don't think your approach to breaking into acting would be any different whether you're in a wheelchair or not.

You still train and study acting and you still go to auditions. I think the hardest thing for you would be to NOT talk yourself out of going to auditions. You can't possibly guess how they're going to cast their show. You can't guess what they're looking for.

Most actors usually do this to themselves at some point - convince themselves they're not right for a part because they think they're... too tall, too short, too old, too young, not the right type, etc. so they don't even go to the auditions.

Directors are much more open to non-traditional casting than they used to be, so there is no reason to ever skip an audition. Just do all of the work - come prepared and do well.

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: I don't think your approach to breaking into acting would be any different whether you're in a wheelchair or not.

You still train and study acting and you still go to auditions. I think the hardest thing for you would be to NOT talk yourself out of going to auditions. You can't possibly guess how they're going to cast their show. You can't guess what they're looking for.

Most actors usually do this to themselves at some point - convince themselves they're not right for a part because they think they're... too tall, too short, too old, too young, not the right type, etc. so they don't even go to the auditions.

Directors are much more open to non-traditional casting than they used to be, so there is no reason to ever skip an audition. Just do all of the work - come prepared and do well.

Mitch Longley is the only famous wheelchair actor I can think of. He started as a hearthrob on Days of our lives soap opera. He's since been in Las Vegas and Joan of Arcadia. You could try and see if he has any message boards or inspiration that could help you. It's very easy for someone not in a wheelchair to sit in one and act so you would be up against able bodied people for the roles, perseverence, good personality and determination will see you through.